Name: Homestyle Potato Chips
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: PT-488100H7M3S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced paper-thin; 3 tbsp salt, plus more to taste; 1 quart oil, for deep frying

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Homestyle potato chips are crispy, golden, and incredibly satisfying. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these chips deliver that perfect crunch and fresh flavor you can’t get from store-bought bags. They’re ideal for snacking, parties, or serving alongside sandwiches and burgers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade potato chips are fresher, crispier, and more customizable than packaged versions. You can season them however you like—classic salted, spicy, herby, or cheesy. They’re budget-friendly, easy to make, and guaranteed to disappear fast once they hit the table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced paper-thin
3 tablespoons salt, plus more to taste
1 quart oil, for deep frying

Directions

Slice potatoes paper-thin and place them in a large bowl of cold water as you work.
Drain, rinse under cold water, then refill the bowl with fresh water and 3 tablespoons salt. Soak potato slices for at least 30 minutes.
Drain again, rinse, and pat slices dry thoroughly with paper towels.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 365°F (185°C).
Working in small batches, fry potato slices until golden brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Season with extra salt to taste, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 8 servings. Preparation takes 40 minutes including soaking, and frying takes about 15–20 minutes. Total time is around 1 hour.

Variations

Sprinkle with paprika, chili powder, or cayenne for spicy chips.
Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a savory twist.
Toss with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese for cheesy garlic chips.
Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color.
Try vinegar powder or drizzle with malt vinegar for tangy chips.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled potato chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To restore crispiness, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture will make them soggy.

FAQs

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

No, leaving the skin on adds texture and rustic flavor.

Why do the potatoes need to soak?

Soaking removes excess starch, which helps make the chips crispy.

Can I use an air fryer instead of deep frying?

Yes, air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What kind of potatoes are best?

Russet or Desiree potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture and crisp finish.

Can I slice the potatoes ahead of time?

It’s best to fry them shortly after slicing, but you can keep slices in salted water for up to 4 hours.

How thin should the slices be?

Paper-thin, ideally 1/16 inch or less. A mandoline slicer works best.

How do I prevent chips from being greasy?

Fry at the correct oil temperature (365°F) and drain well on paper towels.

Can I flavor the chips after frying?

Yes, season while they’re still warm so spices stick better.

Can I reuse the frying oil?

Yes, strain and store oil for another use, but don’t reuse more than 2–3 times.

Are homemade chips healthier than store-bought?

They can be, since you control the type of oil, seasoning, and portion size.

Conclusion

Homestyle potato chips are a simple and rewarding snack to make from scratch. With their unbeatable crunch and customizable flavor options, they’re perfect for any occasion. Once you try these fresh, golden chips, you may never go back to store-bought again.