Crispy Baked Beet Chips

Baked beet chips are a tasty and healthy snack you can cook in big batches in the oven! Easy recipe for homemade beetroot chips.

Are you searching for a genuinely wholesome and delicious snack that satisfies your crunch cravings without the guilt? Look no further than homemade baked beet chips! Forget the expensive, often oil-laden veggie chips from the grocery store. With this simple recipe, you can effortlessly create vibrant, crispy beetroot chips right in your own kitchen. They’re not just a feast for the eyes with their beautiful colors, but a fantastic alternative to traditional potato chips, packed with natural flavors and nutrients.

Making your own vegetable chips is a rewarding culinary adventure. After perfecting our zucchini chips and apple chips, we knew beetroot chips had to be next on our list. It’s amazing how simple it is to transform fresh produce into irresistible snacks. This recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be incredibly fun and flavorful, perfectly aligning with a philosophy of enjoying unprocessed foods.

Why Make Homemade Beet Chips?

There are countless reasons to swap out store-bought snacks for these delightful homemade beet chips. First and foremost, you control the ingredients. No hidden sugars, excessive salts, or unhealthy oils – just pure, natural goodness. Beets are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants. Baking them preserves most of these benefits while transforming them into a satisfyingly crunchy treat.

Moreover, the process of making beet chips is surprisingly straightforward and incredibly satisfying. It’s a fantastic way to utilize fresh beets, especially when they’re in season, and can even be a fun activity to involve kids in the kitchen. Plus, the vibrant colors of red, golden, or even striped Chioggia beets add an appealing visual touch to any snack spread or charcuterie board. You’ll find yourself reaching for these wholesome, oven-baked beauties again and again.

The Nutritional Powerhouse of Beets

Beets, also known as beetroot, are root vegetables celebrated not only for their distinctive earthy flavor and striking color but also for their impressive nutritional profile. When you turn them into baked chips, you’re not just getting a tasty snack; you’re indulging in a health-boosting treat. Beets are an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. They are also rich in Vitamin C, an important antioxidant that supports the immune system, and essential minerals like potassium and manganese.

One of the most notable compounds in beets is betalains, which are potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents responsible for their deep red and purple hues. These compounds have been linked to various health benefits, including supporting detoxification and reducing oxidative stress. Furthermore, beets contain nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide – a molecule that helps relax and dilate blood vessels, potentially contributing to healthy blood pressure levels. Choosing baked beet chips is a smart way to incorporate these incredible nutrients into your diet in a fun and appealing format.

What You’ll Need: Key Ingredients

Crafting perfect baked beet chips requires just a few simple ingredients, emphasizing the natural flavor of the beets themselves. Quality matters here, so choose fresh, firm beets for the best results.

• Fresh Beets: The star of our show! Any variety works wonderfully. Red beets offer a classic, deep color, while golden beets provide a softer, yellow hue and a slightly milder flavor. Chioggia beets, with their beautiful concentric red and white rings, are also a fantastic, eye-catching option. Ensure your beets are firm and free from blemishes.
• Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness and helps the seasoning adhere. Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle, pleasant flavor, but any good quality olive oil will do.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural sweetness and earthy notes of the beets. Start with a light sprinkle and adjust to your preference.
• Optional Seasonings: While salt is often all you need, feel free to experiment! A pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of chili powder can elevate the flavor profile of your chips, offering a gourmet touch. For a cheesy flavor, try nutritional yeast.

For exact measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card below.

Equipment for Perfect Beet Chips

While you don’t need a gourmet kitchen full of gadgets, a few key tools will make your beet chip-making process significantly easier and ensure the best possible outcome. Consistent thickness is paramount for evenly cooked, perfectly crisp chips, and the right equipment can make all the difference.

• Mandoline Slicer: This is highly recommended and arguably the most important tool for achieving consistently thin slices (around 1/16 inch). A mandoline ensures uniformity, which is vital for even baking. If slices vary too much in thickness, some will burn while others remain soft. Choose a setting around ‘2’ for ideal thinness.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: If a mandoline isn’t available, a very sharp chef’s knife and a steady hand can work. However, it will require more patience and skill to achieve thin, uniform slices.
• Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing your beet slices with olive oil and seasonings.
• Baking Sheets: You’ll likely need two or more, as the beet slices must be placed in a single layer without overlapping for optimal crisping.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. It’s a non-negotiable for perfectly baked chips.
• Paper Towels or Clean Kitchen Towel: Essential for patting dry the beet slices after they “sweat out” excess moisture, a critical step for crispiness.

Step-by-Step Directions for Crispy Beetroot Chips

Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfectly crispy and flavorful baked beet chips every time. Precision and patience are your best friends here!

1. Prepare the Beets: Begin by thoroughly scrubbing the raw beets under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. There’s no need to peel them, as the skin bakes up beautifully and adds extra nutrients. Trim off the leafy tops and the tough root end.
2. Slice for Success: This is the most crucial step for achieving consistent crispness. Using a mandoline slicer (highly recommended!), carefully cut the beets into very thin slices, approximately 1/16 inch thick. If using a mandoline, a setting of ‘2’ typically yields ideal results. If you’re using a sharp knife, take your time to ensure each slice is as uniform in thickness as possible. Inconsistent slices will cook unevenly, leading to some burnt and some undercooked chips.
3. Prevent Staining (Optional but Recommended Tip): Beet juice is notoriously vibrant and can easily stain hands, cutting boards, and clothing. To minimize mess, consider wearing an apron, covering your wooden cutting board with plastic wrap, and wearing gloves while handling the beets.

4. Season and “Sweat”: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the thin beet slices with olive oil until they are lightly coated. Sprinkle generously with salt (and any other desired seasonings like black pepper or garlic powder). Let the seasoned beet slices sit aside for about 15-20 minutes. This “sweating” period allows the salt to draw out excess moisture from the beets, which is vital for achieving a truly crispy chip. After this time, use paper towels to firmly press out any accumulated liquid before proceeding.
5. Separate Colors (Important Note): If you’re using different colored beets (e.g., red and golden), it’s best to prepare them in separate bowls and bake them on separate baking sheets. This prevents the vibrant red beets from staining the lighter golden or Chioggia varieties.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two or more large baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange the beet slices in a single layer on the prepared sheets, ensuring they do not overlap. Overlapping will cause the chips to steam rather than crisp. You may need to work in batches if you don’t have enough baking sheets or oven space.

7. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Begin checking at the 15-minute mark, and then every 5 minutes thereafter. The exact baking time will vary based on your oven, the thickness of your slices, and the moisture content of the beets. Look for the edges to just begin browning and for the chips to feel firm and crisp.
8. Cool for Ultimate Crispness: As chips reach your desired crispness, carefully remove them from the oven. Beet chips will continue to crisp up significantly as they cool. For the crispiest results, leave them on the baking sheet to cool completely, or transfer them to a wire rack. If some chips are done before others, remove them and continue baking the rest. Thicker slices or those with more oil might take longer.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Beet Chips Every Time

Achieving that coveted crunch can sometimes be a little tricky with vegetable chips, but with these expert tips, you’ll master the art of crispy baked beet chips:

• Uniform Slicing is Key: We can’t stress this enough! The thinner and more consistent your slices are, the more evenly they will bake and crisp up. A mandoline slicer truly makes a huge difference here.
• Don’t Skip the “Sweating” Step: Allowing the salted beet slices to sit for 15-20 minutes and then patting them dry removes a significant amount of moisture. Less moisture means crispier chips.
• Single Layer is a Must: Overcrowding the baking sheet will steam the beets instead of baking them, resulting in soft, chewy chips. Use multiple baking sheets and work in batches if necessary.
• Monitor Closely Towards the End: Beets can go from perfectly crisp to burnt very quickly. Keep a close eye on them, especially after the 15-minute mark. Remove individual chips as they crisp up.
• Embrace the Cool Down: Beet chips will feel slightly pliable when hot out of the oven, but they firm up and become crispy as they cool. Patience during the cooling process is rewarded!
• Flip Halfway (Optional but Helpful): While not strictly necessary with thin slices and proper moisture removal, flipping the chips halfway through baking can promote more even browning and crisping on both sides.

Flavor Variations to Explore

While a simple olive oil and salt seasoning is delicious, beet chips are incredibly versatile and lend themselves well to various flavor enhancements. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or chili powder to your olive oil mixture for a subtle heat.
• Garlicky Goodness: Mix in a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder for an aromatic twist.
• Herbal Infusion: Dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano can add a sophisticated touch. Crush them slightly before adding to release their aromas.
• Cheesy Savory: Nutritional yeast is a fantastic way to impart a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.
• Sweet & Savory: A tiny sprinkle of brown sugar or maple syrup before baking, along with salt, can highlight the beet’s natural sweetness for a unique profile.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: For a trendy and flavorful option, sprinkle your beet slices with everything bagel seasoning before baking.

How to Serve Your Delicious Beet Chips

Once cooled to crisp perfection, your baked beet chips are ready to be enjoyed! They are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways beyond just eating them straight from the bowl.

• Classic Snack: Simply pile them up and enjoy as a healthy, satisfying snack on their own.
• With Dips: Their sturdy texture makes them perfect for dipping. Pair them with fresh guacamole, hummus, a creamy Greek yogurt dip, or even a spicy salsa.
• Charcuterie Boards: The vibrant colors of beet chips make them a beautiful and healthy addition to any charcuterie or cheese board, offering a lovely contrast to meats and cheeses.
• Salad Topping: Crumble them over salads for an extra crunch and burst of flavor. They add a wonderful texture and earthy sweetness.
• Soup Garnish: Use them as a pretty and tasty garnish for creamy soups, especially vegetable or tomato-based ones.
• Sandwich or Wrap Crunch: Tuck a few beet chips into your sandwiches or wraps for an unexpected layer of crunch and flavor.

Storage for Optimal Freshness

To keep your homemade baked beet chips as crispy and fresh as possible, proper storage is important.

Once completely cooled, store your beet chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They will retain their best crispness on the day they are made. While they can last for about a week, expect them to soften slightly after the first day or two. To revive any chips that have lost their crispness, you can briefly reheat them in a single layer in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, then let them cool completely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beet Chips

Do I need to peel the beets?

No, you do not need to peel the beets for this recipe. The skin is thin, edible, and becomes crisp when baked. It also adds extra fiber and nutrients. Just make sure to scrub them very well to remove any dirt.

Why aren’t my beet chips crispy?

There are a few common reasons:

• Slices too thick: If the slices are not thin and uniform (ideally 1/16 inch), they won’t crisp properly.
• Too much moisture: Not “sweating” the beets or not patting them dry enough can leave too much water, preventing crispness.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Chips need space to bake evenly. If they overlap, they will steam instead of getting crispy.
• Not baked long enough: Oven temperatures vary. Keep baking until they are firm and slightly browned at the edges.
• Not cooled completely: Chips become significantly crispier as they cool.

Can I use an air fryer to make beet chips?

Yes, absolutely! Air fryers are excellent for making crispy vegetable chips. The process is similar: slice thinly, toss with oil and salt. Air fry at a lower temperature (around 300-325°F or 150-160°C) and check frequently, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, as air fryers cook much faster than conventional ovens.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Beet chips are best enjoyed on the day they are made for maximum crispness. While they can be stored for up to a week in an airtight container, they will lose some of their crunch over time. For best results, plan to make them shortly before serving.

Discover More Healthy Fruit and Veggie Chips

If you loved making these baked beet chips, you’ll be thrilled to explore other homemade chip recipes. Expanding your repertoire of healthy, oven-baked snacks is a fantastic way to enjoy more produce and reduce reliance on processed foods.

• Crispy Zucchini Chips (Oven or Microwave)
• Wholesome Baked Sweet Potato Chips
• Naturally Sweet Baked Apple Chips

📋 Baked Beet Chips Recipe Card

Baked Beet Chips Recipe

These homemade baked beet chips are a delightful, healthy, and crispy snack perfect for any occasion!

5 out of 5 stars based on 2 votes

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Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Servings: 6 servings | Author: Marjory Pilley

Ingredients

• 3 Medium Beets
• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• Salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scrub beets thoroughly and slice them very thin (about 1/16 inch) using a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife.
3. In a large bowl, toss the beet slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to “sweat” out excess moisture, then pat them dry with paper towels.
4. Arrange the beet slices in a single layer on 2 parchment-lined baking sheets. Ensure no slices overlap. Work in batches if necessary.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chips are crisp and the edges just begin to brown. Check frequently after 15 minutes, removing any chips that have reached desired crispness to a cooling rack. Thicker slices or those heavily coated in oil may require more time.
6. Allow the beetroot chips to cool completely on the baking sheet or a wire rack. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.

Notes

Expert Tip: Beet juice can stain! Wear an apron, cover your cutting board, and consider gloves to avoid temporary discoloration.

Storage: Store cooled beet chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For best crispness, consume within 1-2 days.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 38kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Fat: 2g | Sodium: 32mg | Potassium: 133mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 7mg | Iron: 0.3mg

Nutritional and Food Safety Disclaimer

This recipe has been updated to improve the reader experience.