Chips

Homemade Barbecue Potato Chips Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Name: Homemade Barbecue Potato Chips Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 3/4 cup chilled water; 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic; 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 large starchy russet potato, skin on or off as preferred; 1 teaspoon onion granules; 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon light brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon ground chili flakes; Oil for frying or brushing

Susan Roberts August 12, 2025

Servings: 2 Total Time: 50 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Homemade barbecue potato chips are a summer must-have, perfect for backyard barbecues and casual hangouts. They pair amazingly with grilled meats like burgers and ribs, adding a satisfying crunch and texture contrast.

These chips also shine with dips like guacamole or ranch, making snack time more fun. Served alongside sandwiches or tossed into fresh salads, they add extra flavor and crunch.

Don’t forget drinks—cold sodas, beers, or lemonade taste even better with these chips. Now, let’s dive into making these customizable, delicious homemade barbecue chips from scratch.

The crunchy, savory, and often addictive appeal of potato chips is universal. However, the allure of making your own chips comes from the control you have over flavors, textures, and ingredients.

Whether you are in the mood for a classic salt-and-vinegar flavor or a spicy barbecue twist, the opportunities are endless.

From baking to frying, the homemade variety consistently wins for freshness and taste.

Each bite can take you on a journey filled with nostalgia, the scent of summer barbecues wafting through the air, and laughter echoing around the backyard. Let’s create something delicious together!

What are Homemade Barbecue Potato Chips?

Homemade barbecue potato chips are thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned to perfection, and either fried or baked to crispy goodness. The barbecue flavor typically comes from a blend of spices, including smoked paprika, onion, and hints of sweetness.

Unlike store-bought chips, where preservatives and artificial flavors abound, homemade chips allow you to use quality ingredients, ensuring a snack that’s not only delicious but also healthier.

The beauty of these chips lies in their versatility. You can tweak the seasoning to match your tastes. Want them spicier? Add more chili flakes! Prefer them sweeter? Adjust the sugar! The possibilities stretch wide, encouraging creativity while snacking.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Barbecue Potato Chips

Picture yourself at a backyard barbecue, music playing softly in the background, the sun setting slowly. You reach for a potato chip—crunch! The sound is satisfying, but the flavor is where it truly shines.

You’ll love these chips for many reasons:

1. Flavor Control: You get to experiment with various spices, adjusting the intensity of the barbecue flavor as you see fit. Want it smokier? More heat? A hint of sweetness? No problem!

2. Freshness: No stale chips here! Every bite is bursting with flavor. The freshness of the potatoes simply can’t be beaten.

3. Healthier Option: By making them at home, you can control the oil used and avoid unhealthy additives. Plus, they are a great source of carbohydrates to fuel your day.

4. Fun Activity: Making chips can be a fun, interactive activity to do with family or friends. Everyone can participate, and you can even hold a “chip-off” to see who can create the best flavor.

5. Customization: The recipe is incredibly flexible. You can adjust the ingredients to cater to dietary needs and preferences. Gluten-free or vegan? You got it!

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Homemade Barbecue Potato Chips

3/4 cup chilled water

1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

1 large starchy russet potato, skin on or off as preferred (approximately 6–8 ounces)

1 teaspoon onion granules

1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon light brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground chili flakes

Oil for frying or brushing

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the russet potato thoroughly. If you prefer, peel the potato; however, leaving the skin on enhances the texture and adds nutrients.

Next, using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, slice the potato thinly, aiming for about 1/8 inch thickness.

Step 2: Soak the Slices

Once the potatoes are sliced, place them in a bowl of chilled water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, ensuring that the chips turn out extra crispy.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

While the potatoes soak, prepare your barbecue seasoning. In a small bowl, mix the onion granules, granulated garlic, smoked paprika, brown sugar, chili flakes, black pepper, and fine sea salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Dry the Potatoes

After soaking, drain the water and spread the potato slices on a clean kitchen towel. Pat them dry thoroughly. Excess moisture will prevent them from achieving that glorious crunch.

Step 5: Frying (or Baking)

For Frying: Heat oil in a deep frying pan to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop a few potato slices into the hot oil.
Fry until they are golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chips with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain. While the chips are hot, sprinkle them immediately with your barbecue seasoning mix.
For Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange potato slices in a single layer on the sheet. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil, then sprinkle with the seasoning.
Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are crisp and golden, flipping halfway through.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once cooked, let the chips cool slightly. This helps with that delightful crunch. Serve them warm or store them for later enjoyment.

How to make Homemade Barbecue Potato Chips Recipe

Notes: Tips for Perfect Chips

Uniform Slicing: Consistency is key for even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve perfect slices.
Soaking Time: The longer you soak, the crispier the chips can get. Don’t rush this step!
Batch Cooking: Aim for small batches when frying to maintain the oil’s temperature.
Seasoning After Cooking: For better flavor distribution, sprinkle seasoning as soon as the chips come out of the fryer or oven.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to make this barbecue mix your own by adding chipotle powder, cumin, or even a splash of vinegar for tanginess.

Storage Tips

To keep your homemade chips crunchy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

They can last up to a week, but trust me, they’ll usually be gone much sooner! If they lose their crunch, a few minutes in a preheated oven can help revive their crispness.

Nutrition Information

Homemade Barbecue Potato Chips recipe Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Homemade barbecue potato chips shine on their own, but here are some serving ideas to elevate your snack game:

1. Pair with a Dipping Sauce: Try a cool ranch or tzatziki for a refreshing contrast. The creaminess complements the salty crunch beautifully.

2. Top a Salad: Crumble chips over a classic Caesar or a garden salad for an unexpected yet exciting crunch. They add texture and flavor that transforms a simple salad.

3. Make a Loaded Dip Platter: Serve your chips with a selection of dips like guacamole, salsa, or hummus. This makes for a fabulous appetizer spread at your next gathering.

4. Create a Snack Board: Arrange chips with cheese, cured meats, and fresh fruits for an appealing visual presentation that promises a delightful tasting experience.

5. Incorporate into a Burger: Use chips as a topping for burgers or sandwiches. They add a unique crunch and flavor that takes your typical burger up several notches.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Homemade Barbecue Potato Chips?

Creative cooks love experimenting. Here are five substitutes that you can use in the process of making barbecued chips:

Sweet Potatoes: Switching out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes gives you a sweeter, healthier chip. Sweet potatoes have their unique flavor and added nutrients.
Zucchini: For a veggie twist, try zucchini slices. While the final product will be softer than potato chips, they are delicious in their right!
Parsnips: These root vegetables offer an earthy flavor. They can deliver a different texture and taste while still being a crunchy snack.
Beets: Beet chips provide that vibrant color and sweetness, setting them apart and making them a picturesque addition to your snack lineup.
Kale Chips: For a leafy green spin, try kale. They can be seasoned in the same way as potato chips and baked until crispy, offering a lighter alternative.

Conclusion

Crafting your own barbecue potato chips at home opens a world of flavor and creative cooking. It’s an enjoyable process that yields delicious snacks, perfect for any occasion. The blend of crispy texture and customized seasoning brings satisfaction that store-bought chips simply can’t replicate.

So next time you’re gearing up for a gathering or just craving a tasty snack, put on your apron and get ready to impress.

With this recipe at your fingertips, you’re well-equipped to create your own signature barbecue potato chips that will have everyone asking for more. Enjoy the process, delight in every chip, and share the joy with those around you. Happy snacking!

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