Buffalo Chips with Louisiana Hot Dip is a fun and tasty snack! Crispy potato slices pair perfectly with a spicy dip made from cream cheese, hot sauce, and more.
You might want to keep a napkin handy because this dip is so good, you’ll want to savor each bite! I love to serve it at gatherings; it’s always a hit! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for making chips since they’re starchy and crisp up nicely. You can substitute with Yukon Golds for a creamier texture or use sweet potatoes for a healthier, sweeter option.
Cream Cheese: It gives the dip a rich, thick texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace it with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for some protein, or use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan alternative.
Louisiana-Style Hot Sauce: This adds a lot of kick. If you prefer something milder, use a milder hot sauce or even a dash of sriracha. For those who love extra heat, feel free to add more sauce!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is my go-to for this dip, but you can swap it for pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a milder flavor. A mix of cheeses is also a great idea!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Homemade Chips?
Making homemade buffalo chips can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires some finesse. Here are the steps for achieving that perfect crisp:
- Start by slicing the russet potatoes thinly. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Rinse the cut potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch. This helps them crisp up better. Dry them thoroughly!
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry the potato slices in small batches so they aren’t crowded. This ensures they’ll crisp nicely.
- Fry until golden brown, usually about 3-4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning!
- Drain cooked chips on paper towels and sprinkle with salt while they’re hot.
Enjoy your crunchy chips with that zesty Louisiana hot dip! They’ll be a hit every time. 😄
Buffalo Chips With Louisiana Hot Dip
Ingredients:
For The Chips:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced (for homemade chips) or 4 cups store-bought potato chips
- Vegetable oil (for frying, if making homemade chips)
- Salt to taste
For The Louisiana Hot Dip:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a cheese melting variety
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce (such as Crystal or Tabasco)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for garnish
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time if you’re making homemade chips, plus another 10 minutes to prepare the dip and assemble the dish. If you’re using store-bought chips, it’ll save you some time. Just gather, prepare, and serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chips:
If you’re making homemade chips, start by rinsing and drying the thinly sliced potato slices thoroughly. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potato slices in batches until they turn golden and crispy, which usually takes around 3-4 minutes each batch. Once done, remove them and drain on paper towels. Don’t forget to season them lightly with salt while they’re still hot!
2. Making the Louisiana Hot Dip:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Louisiana-style hot sauce until smooth and creamy. Next, add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined. Feel free to taste and adjust by adding more hot sauce or spices if you like it spicier!
3. Assembling the Dish:
If you’re using homemade chips, layer them on an oven-safe plate or platter. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chips. If you want to melt the cheese slightly, you can briefly broil or microwave the dish. For a finishing touch, sprinkle a little smoked paprika over the chips for added color and flavor!
4. Serving:
Transfer the Louisiana hot dip into a small bowl and place it right in the center of your chip platter. Garnish the dip with the sliced green onions and a light dusting of smoked paprika. Serve immediately so everyone can enjoy the warm cheesy chips with that deliciously spicy dip!
Enjoy this bold and crunchy snack that combines crispy chips with a creamy, spicy dip bursting with Louisiana flavor! Perfect for parties or a cozy night in! 🎉🥔
Can I Use Store-Bought Chips Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely! Using store-bought potato chips is a great time-saver. Just skip the frying step and go straight to making the Louisiana hot dip to enjoy with your chips. Choose thicker chips for better dipping!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well! For a vegan alternative, use dairy-free cream cheese or cashew cream. Both will still give you that creamy texture ideal for the dip.
How Can I Make This Dip More or Less Spicy?
You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference! Add more Louisiana-style hot sauce for extra heat, or use a milder hot sauce if you prefer it less spicy. A dollop of sour cream can also help mellow the heat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chips are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them in a cool, dry place for a day. Just reheat the dip gently when ready to serve again!
