Your New Favorite Snack

This crispy pizza chips recipe transforms ordinary tortillas into an irresistible snack that captures all the flavors of pizza in convenient bite-sized pieces. Perfect for movie nights, game day gatherings, or whenever you need a quick pizza fix without ordering delivery.

I first created these pizza chips when my nephew came over unexpectedly and wanted pizza. With no time to make dough, I improvised with tortillas and basic pizza ingredients. Now they're requested at every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Corn or flour tortillas: Choose corn for authentic crunch or flour for chewier texture. The sturdier the better for holding toppings.
• Pizza or marinara sauce: Opt for thicker varieties to prevent soggy chips. I prefer chunky homemade sauce when I have time.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella works but pre-shredded provides better coverage and melt. A combination with parmesan adds extra flavor.
• Customizable toppings: Mini pepperoni creates perfect bite-sized pieces. Finely diced vegetables ensure even cooking.
• Italian herbs: Dried herbs infuse authentic pizza flavor throughout each chip. Fresh basil added after baking provides aromatic brightness.
• Garlic powder: Distributes evenly for consistent flavor in every bite. Use fresh minced garlic for more intense flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds gentle heat that complements the cheese and sauce. Adjust amount to your spice preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the oven:

Heat oven to 400°F ensuring rack is positioned in the middle for even heat distribution. Allow at least 10 minutes for proper preheating.

Cut the tortillas:

Slice each tortilla into 6 or 8 triangular pieces using a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean edges. Uniform sizes ensure even cooking.

Arrange on baking sheet:

Place tortilla pieces in a single layer with slight space between each to allow for proper crisping. Overcrowding leads to steam and soggy chips.

Add sauce layer:

Spread approximately one teaspoon of sauce on each piece using the back of a spoon. Keep the layer thin and leave a small border around edges for holding.

Add cheese and toppings:

Sprinkle each chip with a generous pinch of cheese followed by your selected toppings. Distribute evenly for balanced flavor in each bite.

Season:

Dust the assembled chips with Italian herbs and garlic powder. A light hand with seasonings prevents overwhelming the other flavors.

Bake to perfection:

Place in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes watching carefully as they approach doneness. Look for golden edges and bubbling cheese.

Cool slightly:

Allow chips to rest on baking sheet for 3 minutes before serving. This critical step allows them to crisp up completely.

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The first time I made these, I accidentally doubled the garlic powder, and surprisingly, my family loved the extra punch of flavor. Now I always add a bit more than the recipe calls for. My daughter has turned making these into a Friday tradition, creating her own "pizza chip bar" where everyone customizes their own toppings.

Making Ahead and Storage

These pizza chips taste best fresh from the oven, but you can prepare components ahead of time. Cut tortillas and store in an airtight container up to two days before cooking. For leftovers, store completely cooled chips in a paper towel-lined container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration as it makes them soggy. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes to restore crispness.

Easy Variations

Transform these chips with different flavor profiles. Try Mexican style with salsa, cheddar and taco seasoning. Create Mediterranean chips using hummus, feta and olives. For dessert chips, brush tortillas with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and serve with fruit salsa or chocolate dip. Buffalo chicken lovers can substitute wing sauce for pizza sauce and top with shredded chicken and blue cheese.

Perfect Pairings

Serve these crispy pizza chips alongside complementary dips like warm marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. For a complete game day spread, pair with other finger foods like buffalo wings, vegetable crudités, and spinach artichoke dip. These also make an excellent accompaniment to hearty soups or salads when you want something more substantial than traditional croutons.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different types of cheese for these pizza chips?

Absolutely! While mozzarella provides the classic pizza stretch, feel free to experiment with cheddar for sharpness, provolone for smoothness, or parmesan for nuttiness. For the best flavor complexity, try using a blend of different cheeses.

→ How do I keep the pizza chips crispy?

For maximum crispiness, use thicker sauces and apply them sparingly to prevent sogginess. Make sure to arrange the tortilla pieces in a single layer without overlapping, and allow them to cool for 3-5 minutes after baking to enhance crunchiness before serving.

→ What are some creative topping ideas for pizza chips?

Beyond traditional pepperoni, try thinly sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, black olives, jalapeños for heat, caramelized onions, or even pineapple bits. For meat lovers, consider crumbled bacon, mini meatballs, or diced ham. Fresh herbs like basil added after baking can elevate the flavor profile.

→ Can I make these pizza chips ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chips up to the point of baking, store them in the refrigerator for a few hours, then bake when ready to serve. For make-ahead convenience, you can also fully bake them, allow to cool completely, then reheat in a 350°F oven for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.

→ Are these pizza chips suitable for a gluten-free diet?

They can be! Simply use corn tortillas (verify they're certified gluten-free) instead of flour tortillas, and ensure your sauce and seasonings are gluten-free. With these substitutions, these crispy treats make an excellent gluten-free alternative to traditional pizza.

→ What dips pair well with pizza chips?

While these chips are flavorful on their own, they're even better paired with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a creamy pesto dip. For a tangy option, try a balsamic glaze drizzle or a side of warm pizza sauce for extra dipping pleasure.