I tried seven brands to find the best tortilla chips for eating plain and dipping in heavy salsa.
7. Mission
Oh boy, starting at the bottom of the bunch with the very disappointing Mission Tortilla Chips. This was kind of surprising, because I love Mission-brand tortillas (the spinach version in particular is my favorite for Caesar wraps). The chip is bland to the point of being nonexistent. In fact, they tasted kind of stale, with almost no corn flavor whatsoever. The salsa helped a lot because it imparted some flavor, but I think you’ll be better off choosing a different chip.
6. Tostitos
My dad once called Tostitos “an alternative to something with flavor,” which is the sickest snack-related burn I’ve ever heard. I think everyone knows that Tostitos have their own unique taste, which is distinct but not very interesting—especially when compared to some of the other brands on this list. I find Tostitos to be more nostalgic than anything else, because I gobbled them up as a kid. As an adult, though, I want more from my chip.
5. El Ranchero
The El Ranchero chips are thick. Like, very thick. In fact, it’s almost difficult to eat them. Since they’re so thick, they’re also very dry. Even salsa wasn’t helping soften these! In my opinion, El Ranchero chips are ideal for nachos or chilaquiles—dishes that require a sturdy base that can withstand lots of toppings and sauces.
4. On the Border
I don’t know if I’ve ever described a tortilla chip as “airy” before, but that’s what came to mind when I ate my first On the Border chip. It’s light and incredibly crispy, and it paired well with salsa. The chip didn’t break down when dipped, which I fully expected considering how light it was. I would love to pair this with chorizo dip or queso fundido for the ultimate texture mashup.
3. Frontera
Now, this is a great example of a chip that could be thick and hearty without losing flavor. The Frontera Grill chips have perhaps the most corn-forward flavor of all that I tried. In fact, they almost tasted like a tortilla-Frito hybrid. I was pleasantly surprised by this chip’s texture and taste. It held up really well to the salsa, and was also a delight to eat on its own. It would also make an incredible base for nachos.
2. Donkey
The Donkey chips were my favorite heading into this ranking. They’re almost always on sale at the grocery store near me, so I can grab two bags for $5. They have great corn flavor, and are more reminiscent of a chip that you’d be served in a taqueria. What I’ve always appreciated about Donkey chips is that you can buy them salted or unsalted. They hold up well to salsa and are satisfyingly crunchy. I was genuinely surprised that they weren’t the winners of this taste test, but the next brand really is that good.
1. El Milagro
The one, the only: El Milagro. This brand took gold in this competition for its flavor and texture. It’s not too salty, but not under-seasoned either. The corn flavor is bold but not overpowering. It’s a great vehicle for salsa, and I would actually describe it as “perfectly dippable.” The El Milagro chips combine all of the good things from the previous chips and none of the bad things. These chips are simply perfecto!
Did your favorite brand make the list? Let us know in the comments below!
