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This upgraded take on kettle-cooked potato chips combines the iconic flavor of Old Bay with citrusy brightness and a creamy homemade lemon garlic aioli. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for game nights, dinner parties, and casual gatherings.
We’ve served these Old Bay potato chips at our last few Thanksgiving dinners as an appetizer and have been asked for the recipe every single time!
Old Bay Potato Chips with Lemon Garlic Aioli Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re looking for a fast but memorable snack, these Old Bay potato chips are the perfect answer. Baking kettle chips intensifies their crunch while allowing the spices to bloom. A final dusting of Old Bay, powdered sugar, and fresh lemon zest adds layers of savory depth, subtle sweetness, and brightness. Paired with a tangy lemon garlic aioli, this Old Bay potato chips dish transforms an everyday bag of chips into a gourmet appetizer—no frying required.
Inspired by Bon Appetit, this version is simplified for easy entertaining.Â
Ingredients
For the Old Bay Potato Chips:
- 1 bag original kettle-cooked potato chips (not party size; we prefer Cape Cod Potato Chips)
- 3 tsp Old Bay seasoning (divided in 2 tsp for the “mix seasoning step” and 1 tsp for the “baking step”)
- 1 tsp powdered sugar
- 1 lemon for zesting
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (we prefer Hellmann’s mayonnaise)
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced using a garlic peeler and garlic press
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (we use a citrus juicer)
You can use the same lemon(s) for the Old Bay potato chips (uses the zest) and lemon garlic aioli (uses the juice). Remember to keep the lemon(s) after juicing for the zesting step.
Instructions
Earlier in the Day (Prep Ahead):
- Make the lemon garlic aioli: In a small glass bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely grated garlic clove, and lemon juice. Stir well and refrigerate.
- Mix seasoning: Whisk together the powdered sugar and 2/3 of the Old Bay seasoning (the “mix seasoning step” portion) in a small bowl. Set aside.
When You’re Ready to Serve:
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Empty one bag of kettle-cooked potato chips into a 9 x 13 roasting pan.
- Sprinkle chips evenly with the remaining Old Bay seasoning (the “baking step” portion). Bake until warmed and slightly deepened in color, about 4–6 minutes.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with the powdered sugar–Old Bay mixture prepared earlier.
- Using a Microplane Zester Grater, zest the full lemon over the Old Bay potato chips. Toss or gently shake the pan to distribute flavors evenly.
- Transfer to a chip dip serving bowl or plate, garnish with parsley (optional), and enjoy with the lemon garlic aioli.
Notes
Warming the chips enhances their flavor and helps the seasonings stick better.
Cape Cod kettle chips give the best crunch, but any sturdy kettle-cooked brand works.
The lemon garlic aioli can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance to let the flavors meld.
Adjust Old Bay to taste—use more for extra savory heat or less for a lighter flavor.
Serve the Old Bay potato chips immediately after seasoning for the best texture.
Old Bay Potato Chips and Lemon Garlic Aioli FAQs
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