Name: Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos: Crispy Chips in 15 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 12 small corn tortillas (Choose gluten-free for a safe snack.); 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (Swap for olive oil for healthier option.); cooking spray (Opt for an oil-based spray for a flavor boost.); 3 tablespoons ranch salad dressing powder (Feel free to use a homemade blend.); 1 tablespoon white cheddar cheese powder (Nutritional yeast offers a dairy-free alternative.); ½ teaspoon garlic salt (Regular salt works if you prefer a simpler taste.); ½ teaspoon salt (Adjust based on your salt preference.); ¼ teaspoon paprika (Smoked paprika enhances the flavor profile.)

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Who knew that with just a handful of ingredients and a mere 15 minutes, I could reclaim the joy of crunching into Cool Ranch Doritos? These homemade delights are not only perfect for game night but also a satisfying alternative to that fast-food temptation. Tossed with a zesty ranch seasoning, they bring a burst of flavor that’s totally customizable, ensuring they cater to all taste buds. Plus, they’re gluten-free if you choose the right tortillas, making them accessible for everyone. Whether you’re planning a cozy movie marathon or simply craving a snack, whipping up this quick recipe will elevate your munching game. Ready to dive into homemade goodness? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Doritos?

Quick and Easy: You’ll whip up these Cool Ranch Doritos in just 15 minutes, making them an effortless addition to any gathering.

Customizable Flavors: Tailor your seasoning to suit your taste buds—whether you prefer mild or spicy, it’s your choice!

Healthy Alternative: By using whole ingredients and the right tortillas, you can indulge guilt-free compared to traditional store-bought chips.

Perfect for Sharing: They are a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting game night or enjoying a simple snack. Pair them with homemade dips like salsa or guacamole for the ultimate treat, just like with our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes.

Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making fresh chips that are crunchy and flavorful, showing off your culinary skills without the fuss. You won’t regret trying these over typical fast food options!

Cool Ranch Doritos Ingredients

For the Chips
• 12 small corn tortillas – Essential base for your Cool Ranch Doritos; choose gluten-free tortillas for a safe snack.
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil – Enables the perfect crispiness; swap for olive oil for a healthier option.
• Cooking spray – Prevents the chips from sticking; opt for an oil-based spray for a flavor boost.

For the Ranch Seasoning
• 3 tablespoons ranch salad dressing powder – The star flavoring agent that brings the ranch vibe; feel free to use a homemade blend.
• 1 tablespoon white cheddar cheese powder – Adds creaminess and a cheesy note; nutritional yeast offers a dairy-free alternative.
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt – Brings a savory kick; regular salt works if you prefer a simpler taste.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances flavors beautifully; you can adjust this based on your salt preference.
• ¼ teaspoon paprika – Infuses a hint of smokiness and color; smoked paprika enhances the flavor profile even further.

Elevate your snack game with these homemade Cool Ranch Doritos that are easy and bursting with flavor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch in your Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos. While the oven heats up, gather your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
Next, take your 12 small corn tortillas and slice them into sixths, creating triangle-shaped pieces. Toss these cut tortillas in a large bowl with 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil until they are evenly coated. The oil will help them crisp up beautifully, so make sure each piece is covered.

Step 3: Arrange for Baking
Spread the seasoned tortilla pieces out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures even baking, allowing air to circulate around each chip. Make sure they aren’t overlapping; you want every piece of your Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos to get that golden-brown crunch!

Step 4: Bake to Crunchy Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the tortilla pieces as they bake; you’re looking for a beautiful golden color and a nice crispy texture. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 5: Mix Your Flavorful Seasoning
While the chips cool, take a bowl and combine 3 tablespoons of ranch salad dressing powder, 1 tablespoon of white cheddar cheese powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic salt, ½ teaspoon of regular salt, and ¼ teaspoon of paprika. Stir well to mix; these spices create the flavorful sprinkle that makes your Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos so addictive.

Step 6: Spray and Shake
Using cooking spray, lightly coat both sides of the cooled chips. This helps the seasoning stick better. Once coated, place the chips in a plastic bag, add the seasoning mix, and shake gently until all chips are evenly coated. Be careful to avoid breaking apart your delightful Doritos.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, your Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos are ready to be served! Enjoy them as a stand-alone snack, or pair them with your favorite dips like guacamole or salsa to elevate your snacking experience. Each crunch promises a burst of zesty flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Expert Tips for Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos

Uniform Cuts: Ensure tortillas are cut evenly into sixths to promote uniform baking. Uneven pieces can lead to some chips being chewy while others are burnt.
Cooling is Key: Allow chips to cool slightly before sprinkling with seasoning. This helps maintain their crunch, preventing sogginess from steam.
Gentle Handling: When shaking the chips with the seasoning, do so gently to avoid breaking them. You want all your Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos to stay intact and ready for dipping!
Flavor Experimentation: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your seasoning! Tailor it to your preferences or try new blends to make each batch of Cool Ranch Doritos unique.
Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on the chips while baking to prevent overcooking. They can go from perfect to burnt very quickly, so check around the 8-minute mark!

Make Ahead Options

These Cool Ranch Doritos are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the tortilla chips up to 24 hours in advance by cutting and coating them with oil, then storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them for about 10 minutes until they are golden and crispy. Additionally, you can mix the ranch seasoning ahead of time and keep it in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This way, when the craving hits, you just have to spray the baked chips and shake the seasoning on for freshly made, zesty chips that taste just as delicious as when they are freshly made!

Cool Ranch Doritos Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to indulge your culinary creativity with these delightful twists and swaps for your homemade Cool Ranch Doritos, enhancing every bite!

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your seasoning mix for a fiery flavor that will tingle your taste buds. A little heat can elevate your snack experience, making it even more enjoyable.
Taco Twist: Swap out ranch seasoning for taco seasoning for a zesty taco-inspired crunch. This variation transforms your chips into a flavor fiesta, perfect for taco night!
Nutritional Yeast: Replace white cheddar cheese powder with nutritional yeast for a vegan option that offers a cheesy flavor without dairy. It’s a great way to boost your snack’s nutritional profile.
Herb Infusion: Mix in dried herbs like dill or basil into your seasoning for a fresh herbal note. These additions give your chips a unique twist that makes them stand out.
Sweet & Spicy: Experiment by drizzling honey over your chips before adding seasoning. This will create a tantalizing sweet-and-spicy combination that’s perfect for adventurous palates.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle extra shredded cheese or a cheesy seasoning blend on the chips after baking for an added layer of richness. The creaminess will make each crunch an unforgettable experience.
Smoke and Spice: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor profile. This little change adds complexity and LUSCIOUS flavor to your chips, making every bite sing.

And if you find yourself in the mood for something outside the box, consider trying our Chicken Ranch Snack for some delicious inspiration or dive into a batch of Cheesy Ranch Potatoes for an equally comforting treat.

Storage Tips for Cool Ranch Doritos

Room Temperature: Store leftover Cool Ranch Doritos in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll remain fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining their delightful crunch.
Freezer: If you need to prolong their lifespan, freeze the chips in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 1 month, but note that texture may be affected upon thawing.
Reheating: For reheating, place the chips in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness, ensuring a satisfying crunch again.
Avoiding Sogginess: Always let the chips cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess, keeping those flavors vibrant and fresh!

What to Serve with Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos

Perfect for snacking, these delightfully crispy chips are versatile enough to pair with many accompaniments!

Zesty Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole complements the crunchy texture of the Doritos, adding a fresh twist to each bite.
Classic Salsa: A bold, tangy salsa provides a refreshing contrast to the ranch flavor, enhancing the overall snacking experience.
Savory Cheese Dip: Warm cheese dip amps up the indulgence; its gooey goodness molds perfectly with the crunchy chips for a heavenly treat.
Smoky Black Bean Dip: This protein-packed dip offers a hearty contrast to the chips’ crunch, while its smoky flavor harmonizes beautifully with the ranch seasoning.
Crisp Veggie Platter: Serve with fresh veggies like carrots and celery for a crunchy, healthy snack that balances out the richness of the chips.
Fizzy Sparkling Water: To cleanse the palate, the bubbles and light flavors of sparkling water let the ranch flavors shine while keeping refreshingly light.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels: For a sweet finish, the salty-sweet combo of chocolate pretzels makes a delightful contrast to the savory chips, creating a fun mix of flavors.
Homemade Hummus: This smooth and creamy dip adds a nutty flavor profile, perfectly teaming up with the ranch notes for an exciting variation.
Spicy Pickles: A crunch with a kick, spicy pickles offer an exciting contrast that enhances the zesty flavor of the homemade Cool Ranch Doritos.
Chilled Lemonade: The citrusy zing of a cold lemonade refreshes the palate, rounding out a delicious snack experience for your taste buds.

Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos Recipe FAQs

What kind of tortillas should I use?
For the best homemade Cool Ranch Doritos, I suggest using small corn tortillas, as they provide the perfect base for the chips. If you need a gluten-free option, make sure to select tortillas that are labeled as gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.

How long can I store leftover chips?
You can store leftover Cool Ranch Doritos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their delightful crunch, ensure that they are completely cooled before sealing them up. If you notice them losing their crispness, a quick reheat in the oven will help restore that crunch!

Can I freeze the chips?
Absolutely! To freeze your homemade Cool Ranch Doritos, place the cooled chips in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply bake them at 350°F for about 5 minutes to bring back their crispy texture.

What if my chips are soggy after baking?
If your homemade Cool Ranch Doritos turn out a bit soggy, it’s possible they were not cooled adequately before being stored, or they were baked insufficiently. To avoid this, ensure the chips cool completely after baking and are evenly spaced on the baking sheet. If sogginess occurs, reheating in an oven can help to crisp them back up.

Are these chips safe for my pets?
It’s best to avoid giving these chips to pets, as garlic salt can be harmful to them. While the ingredients are safe for human consumption, be mindful of any potential allergies your furry friends may have. Always opt for pet-specific treats if you’re looking to spoil them!

Can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste?
Certainly! One of the best parts of making homemade Cool Ranch Doritos is the ability to customize the flavor. Feel free to adjust the quantities of ranch powder, cheese powder, and spices based on your preferences. You could even infuse some cayenne pepper for a spicy twist or try substituting in your favorite seasoning blend for different flavor profiles.