Homemade potato chips are one of those snacks that feel extra rewarding to make yourself. There’s something satisfying about taking a humble potato and transforming it into crisp, golden chips with just a few ingredients. Whether you like them lightly salted, boldly seasoned, or paired with your favorite dip, homemade chips offer freshness and flavor that packaged versions just can’t match.
The appeal of making your own chips goes beyond taste — it’s about control. You get to choose the type of potato, the thickness of each slice, the oil used for frying or baking, and exactly how much salt or seasoning to add. Yukon Golds or Russets are the go-to choices, thanks to their texture and flavor, but even sweet potatoes or purple varieties can be turned into something special. Using a mandoline or sharp knife ensures thin, even slices, which is key for getting that perfect crunch.
One of the biggest surprises for first-time chip makers is just how easy it is. With a pot of hot oil or a preheated oven, a batch can go from raw slices to crispy chips in a matter of minutes. The key is keeping an eye on the color — once they turn golden brown and the edges curl, they’re ready. Let them drain on paper towels, season immediately, and enjoy.
Homemade potato chips are also incredibly versatile. A light sprinkle of sea salt may be all you need, but you can easily get creative. Try flavors like garlic parmesan, smoky paprika, BBQ seasoning, or even a touch of vinegar for that tangy bite. Serve them alongside burgers, sandwiches, or just enjoy them on their own with a cold drink.
Crispy, warm, and deeply satisfying, homemade potato chips remind us that the best snacks are often the simplest. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can have a bowl of chips that are leagues above anything in a bag.
Ingredients
- 3 medium potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
- to taste salt for seasoning
Instructions
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or knife.
- Soak the potato slices in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Drain and pat the potato slices dry with a paper towel.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the potato slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove the chips with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Season with salt to taste while still warm.
I followed the instructions but my chips burnt. Maybe my oil was too hot?
Should’ve watched them more closely. Chips can burn quick! Did you soak them long enough?
Yeah, that’s probably it! 350°F is key. Maybe try a thermometer next time?
These are the best chips I’ve ever made! So crispy and delicious. Thanks for the recipe!
I have a hard time believing these are better than store-bought. Aren’t they just gonna taste like greasy potatoes?
Really? You don’t need to soak them for that long. I skip that part and they still taste good.
Potato chips? More like potato flops! Mine burnt instantly. Thumbs down from me. 👎
I had the same issue! I think my oil was too hot. Gotta keep an eye on that temp!
Maybe you sliced them too thin? I usually make mine thicker so they don’t burn.
Ehh, I was expecting more. They were okay, but I like my chips thicker.
Thicker chips are definitely better! Maybe try cutting them yourself? I used a knife and they turned out great! 😄
These chips turned out AMAZING! So crispy and perfectly seasoned.
I had a hard time frying them without burning. Any tips?
I used olive oil instead of vegetable oil and they came out great! 🍽️
Just gave it a whirl and now I can’t stop eating them. My kids love ’em! 😍
Took too long to prep. Just buy them in a bag is easier. 🙄
I get what you mean, but homemade chips taste sooo much better! Worth the time! 😋
Yummy chips! I didn’t have a mandoline so I used a knife, worked fine. Chips were crunchy!
Tastes like my mom’s chips, great recipe! Simple and fun to do!
I’m glad you enjoyed it! There’s nothing like home-cooked snacks. Did you try any other seasonings?
But chips can be unhealthy! We should eat them in moderation. My mom never let me eat them too often.
My kids loved these! Way better than store bought. Will make again!!
I tried it but my chips turned out soggy. Did I soak them too long? Not sure if I’ll try again.
Idk, my chips turned out great! You might just need to practice more. Just fry them right after soaking, that should help!
Sounds like maybe you soaked them too long, or didn’t dry them enough before frying. Next time, try soaking for just 20 minutes and make sure to really blot them dry. They should turn out better!
I made these for a party, and they were gone in minutes! Huge hit!
These turned out AMAZING! So crispy and delicious. Never buying chips again!
Potato chips? Haha, I just eat the store ones! Too much work!
Super easy to make, just make sure the oil is hot enough! Will be making these for movie night.
Sounds delicious! Can’t wait to try them for our movie night too. Thanks for the tip on the oil!
I dunno, isn’t frying like super unhealthy? Maybe just bake ’em instead? 🤔
Maybe if I had a fryer. Do you think I could bake them instead??