Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips

Discovering the Southwest’s Fiery Secret in a Perfectly Crunchy Chip

I still remember the first time I tried Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips. It was at my friend Maya’s summer barbecue last year, where she had laid out an impressive spread of snacks. Among the usual suspects—pretzels, cheese dip, and veggie sticks—sat this unassuming bag with a distinctive green chile illustration. One bite, and I was transported to the sun-baked fields of New Mexico, where the legendary Hatch chiles are grown. The perfect balance of heat, corn sweetness, and that unmistakable roasted chile flavor had me hooked instantly.

That day began my obsession with what I now consider the ultimate artisanal tortilla chip experience. Since then, I’ve become somewhat of an unofficial Bettergoods evangelist, introducing these chips to friends, family, and even recommending them to strangers in grocery store aisles (yes, I’m that person now). I’ve researched everything there is to know about these chips, from their origins to where to find them and how they compare to other brands.

In this comprehensive guide, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips—why they’re special, what makes them stand out, and why they deserve a permanent spot in your pantry. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast, a chip connoisseur, or simply someone looking to elevate their snacking game, this guide is for you.

What Exactly Are Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips?

Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips aren’t just any tortilla chips—they’re a celebration of authentic Southwestern flavors. The star ingredient, as the name suggests, is the famous Hatch chile. If you’re not familiar with Hatch chiles, they’re a variety of green chile grown in the Hatch Valley of New Mexico. What makes these chiles special is the unique terroir of the region—the combination of soil, climate, and growing conditions that creates a distinctive flavor profile that can’t be replicated elsewhere.

The company behind these chips, Bettergoods, has built its reputation on crafting premium snack foods using high-quality, often locally-sourced ingredients. Their approach to these tortilla chips is no different. They’ve managed to capture the essence of freshly roasted Hatch chiles and infuse it into a perfectly textured corn tortilla chip.

When I first looked into the brand, I was impressed by their commitment to quality. These aren’t mass-produced chips churned out in enormous factories. Instead, they’re made in smaller batches, which allows for better quality control and a more authentic product. The care that goes into making these chips is evident from the first crunch to the last lingering bit of flavor.

The Hunt: Where to Buy Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips

Finding these chips was initially a bit of a treasure hunt for me. After that first taste at Maya’s party, I had to know where I could get my hands on them. Here’s what I’ve discovered about their availability:

Retail Stores

Bettergoods has been expanding their distribution network, and you can now find their Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips in various retail locations:

• Specialty Grocery Stores: Stores like Whole Foods, Fresh Market, and other natural food markets often carry the Bettergoods line.
• Regional Supermarkets: Depending on your location, you might find them in chains like Wegmans, Central Market, or Sprouts Farmers Market.
• Gourmet Food Shops: Many independent gourmet or specialty food stores have started stocking these chips due to customer demand.

In my experience, they’re more commonly found in stores that focus on natural, organic, or specialty food products. The first time I found them on my own was at a local natural foods co-op, tucked away in the artisanal snack section.

Online Options

If you can’t find them locally (which was my situation for a while), there are several online options:

• Bettergoods Official Website: They offer direct-to-consumer sales with the advantage of seeing their full product line.
• Amazon: Yes, they’re available on Amazon, often with Prime shipping options.
• Specialty Food Websites: Sites like Mouth.com, Goldbelly, or other gourmet food delivery services sometimes carry them.
• Subscription Boxes: I’ve spotted them in several snack subscription boxes that focus on artisanal products.

I eventually signed up for a subscription through their website to ensure I never run out. It saves me a bit of money in the long run, and there’s something deeply satisfying about knowing a fresh bag will arrive just as I’m finishing my current stash.

The Burning Question: How Spicy Are These Chips?

When I introduce friends to these chips, the first question is inevitably about the spice level. It’s a fair question—chile-flavored anything can range from barely-there warmth to five-alarm fire. So where do Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips fall on this spectrum?

In my experience, they hit the sweet spot of medium heat. The spiciness is noticeable but not overwhelming—it builds gradually as you continue snacking. What I appreciate most is that the heat doesn’t obliterate the other flavors. You can still taste the corn base, the subtle saltiness, and the complex, slightly smoky flavor of the roasted chiles.

What makes Hatch chiles special is that they offer more than just heat—they have a distinct flavor profile that includes earthy, slightly sweet notes with a hint of grassiness. Bettergoods has done an excellent job of preserving these nuances in their chips.

For spice reference, I’d place them at about a 5-6 on a scale of 10. They’re spicier than your average “hint of lime” tortilla chip but significantly milder than those extreme challenge chips with warning labels. They’re perfect for people who enjoy some heat but don’t want their snacking experience to turn into an endurance test.

My friend Carlos, who has zero tolerance for spicy food, can manage about five chips before reaching for water. Meanwhile, my sister Leila, who puts hot sauce on everything, considers them “pleasantly warm.” I think that range speaks to their balanced approach to spiciness.

What Goes Into These Chips? A Look at the Ingredients

As someone who’s become increasingly ingredient-conscious over the years, I was pleased to discover the relatively straightforward ingredient list on Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips. Here’s what you’ll find:

• Stone-Ground Corn: The base of any good tortilla chip, providing that authentic corn flavor.
• Expeller-Pressed Vegetable Oil: They use a healthier oil extraction method that doesn’t rely on chemical solvents.
• Hatch Chile Powder: The star ingredient, made from genuine Hatch chiles.
• Sea Salt: Just enough to enhance the flavors without being overly salty.
• Lime Juice Powder: Adds a subtle tanginess that complements the chile flavor.
• Natural Flavors: Including additional chile extracts and spices that round out the flavor profile.

What’s notably absent from the ingredient list is just as important as what’s included. You won’t find artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. No MSG, no corn syrup, no mysterious “flavor enhancers” with unpronounceable names.

The Clean Label: Organic, Non-GMO, and Other Certifications

For those concerned about food quality certifications, Bettergoods has covered several bases with their Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips:

• Non-GMO Verified: All ingredients used are non-genetically modified organisms.
• Organic Corn: The corn used is certified organic, grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
• Gluten-Free Certified: Good news for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity—these chips are certified gluten-free.

While not every ingredient is organic (the Hatch chiles themselves are not always available as certified organic), the company is transparent about their sourcing practices. They work with chileheads who prioritize sustainable farming methods, even if they haven’t gone through the costly organic certification process.

Dietary Considerations: Vegan, Gluten-Free, and More

One thing I appreciate about Bettergoods is their consideration for various dietary needs. Here’s how their Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips stack up:

• Vegan-Friendly: These chips contain no animal products or by-products, making them suitable for vegans.
• Gluten-Free: As mentioned above, they’re certified gluten-free, with manufacturing practices that prevent cross-contamination.
• Dairy-Free: No milk products are used in these chips.
• Nut-Free: The facility where they’re produced doesn’t process nuts, reducing allergen concerns.

I have several friends with various dietary restrictions, and it’s nice to have a go-to snack that works for almost everyone. At our last game night, we had two vegans, someone with celiac disease, and a person with a dairy allergy—and everyone could enjoy these chips without worry.

The Price Point: Are They Worth It?

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room—price. Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips are undeniably more expensive than mainstream tortilla chip brands. A standard 8-ounce bag typically retails between $4.99 and $5.99, depending on where you purchase them. That’s roughly twice the price of regular tortilla chips.

Is the premium worth it? In my opinion, absolutely. Here’s why:

• Quality Ingredients: You’re paying for real Hatch chiles, organic corn, and better oils.
• Better Production Methods: Small-batch production with more care and attention.
• Flavor Experience: The depth and complexity of flavor is significantly better than mass-market alternatives.
• Supporting Better Practices: Your dollars support a company committed to higher quality standards and better sourcing.

I view these chips as an affordable luxury. They’re not so expensive that they’re out of reach for occasional indulgence, but special enough to feel like a treat. I’ve found that I actually eat fewer of them than I would cheaper chips—they’re more satisfying, so I don’t mindlessly plow through a bag.

For budget-conscious snackers, I recommend watching for sales or considering their bulk options (more on that later). I’ve found that signing up for the Bettergoods newsletter often results in discount codes landing in my inbox.

The Cooking Method: Baked or Fried?

Unlike some “healthier” tortilla chips that are baked, Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips are traditionally fried—but with important distinctions from mass-market chips:

• They use expeller-pressed oils instead of chemically extracted oils
• The frying process uses lower temperatures for a longer time, which results in less oil absorption
• They drain and cool the chips carefully to remove excess oil

The result is a chip with the satisfying crunch and texture of a fried chip, but without the heavy, greasy quality that sometimes comes with lower-quality fried snacks. They achieve that perfect balance—substantial enough to hold up to chunky salsas and guacamole, but not so thick that they overwhelm the toppings.

I’ve tried many “baked” tortilla chips in my quest for healthier snacking, and frankly, most of them left me unsatisfied. They often have a cardboard-like texture and lack the authentic corn flavor that makes tortilla chips so appealing. Bettergoods doesn’t compromise on this front—they’ve found a way to make a fried chip that doesn’t leave you feeling like you’ve made a poor health choice.

The Unique Hatch Chile Experience

What makes Hatch chiles so special that they deserve to be the centerpiece of a premium tortilla chip? As someone who has become somewhat obsessed with these chiles, let me explain:

Hatch chiles are named after the Hatch Valley in New Mexico, where the specific growing conditions—hot days, cool nights, mineral-rich soil from the nearby Rio Grande, and high altitude—create a chile unlike any other. They’re harvested in late summer through early fall, creating an annual celebration known as the Hatch Chile Festival.

What makes them distinctive in flavor is their complexity. They offer a perfect balance of heat and flavor, with notes that can be described as earthy, sweet, spicy, and slightly smoky. When roasted (as they are before being used in these chips), they develop an even deeper character with subtle caramelized notes.

Bettergoods captures this unique flavor profile remarkably well. They use a combination of dried Hatch chile powder and other natural flavor extracts to recreate not just the heat but the complete flavor experience of freshly roasted Hatch chiles. It’s this attention to authenticity that elevates these chips above simple “spicy tortilla chips.”

Nutritional Breakdown: What’s in a Serving?

For those keeping an eye on nutritional values, here’s what you can expect from a standard serving (about 1 ounce or roughly 10-12 chips) of Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips:

• Calories: Approximately 140 calories
• Fat: 7g (1g saturated)
• Sodium: 110mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g

Compared to other tortilla chips, they’re fairly standard in terms of calories and macronutrients. They’re not a low-calorie food (what chip is?), but they don’t have excessive sodium levels like some flavored chips.

I appreciate that they provide a decent amount of fiber for a chip product, making them slightly more satiating than some competitors. The moderate sodium level means I don’t feel parched after enjoying a serving.

Packaging Options: Sizes and Sustainability

Bettergoods offers their Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips in several packaging options:

• Standard 8-ounce bags: The most commonly found size in retail stores
• Small 1.5-ounce single-serving bags: Perfect for lunch boxes or portion control
• Family-size 14-ounce bags: Great value for households of chip lovers
• Bulk 32-ounce packages: Available primarily online or in some warehouse stores

What about packaging sustainability? This is an area where Bettergoods has been making improvements. Their current packaging includes:

• Bags made with 25% post-consumer recycled materials
• Vegetable-based inks for printing
• A commitment to transitioning to fully compostable packaging by next year

While not perfect yet, they’re more environmentally conscious than many snack companies. On their website, they acknowledge that packaging remains a challenge in the food industry and outline their roadmap toward more sustainable solutions.

Buying in Bulk: Savings and Storage

For dedicated fans like myself, buying in bulk makes economic sense. When purchased in their 32-ounce bulk package, the per-ounce price drops by about 15-20%. If you’re confident you’ll consume them (trust me, it’s not difficult), this is the most economical option.

The bulk package comes in a resealable container that helps maintain freshness. However, I’ve found that transferring them to an airtight container works even better for long-term storage. Properly stored, these chips maintain their quality for about 2-3 months—though I’ve never had a package last nearly that long in my house!

One creative bulk-buying strategy I’ve employed is splitting an order with friends. Several of us chip enthusiasts go in on a large order to qualify for free shipping and bulk discounts, then divide the bounty. It’s become something of a ritual—our “chip swap” gatherings where we divvy up our haul and inevitably stay to share a bowl with some homemade salsa.

How Do They Compare to Other Brands?

Having tried many chile-flavored tortilla chips in my quest for the perfect spicy snack, I can offer some perspective on how Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips stack up against the competition:

Compared to mainstream brands like Doritos’ Spicy Sweet Chili or Tostitos’ Hint of Jalapeño, Bettergoods offers a more authentic and complex chile flavor. The mass-market chips often rely heavily on powdered flavorings and can taste somewhat artificial.

Against other premium competitors like Late July’s Jalapeño Lime or Garden of Eatin’ Red Hot Blues, Bettergoods still stands out for the specific Hatch chile flavor profile. Most competitors use jalapeños or generic “chili pepper,” missing the distinctive character of Hatch chiles.

The closest competitor I’ve found is a regional brand from New Mexico that also uses Hatch chiles, but their chips are thicker and have a more aggressive spice level. Bettergoods has found what I consider the perfect balance of chip thickness, corn flavor, and chile heat.

The Dipping Question: How Do They Hold Up?

A tortilla chip is often judged by its dipping capabilities, and this is an area where Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips truly excel. Their structural integrity is impressive—they have just the right thickness and sturdiness to handle substantial dips without breaking.

I’ve put them through rigorous “dip tests” with everything from thick guacamole to hearty bean dips, and they consistently perform well. Their slight curve creates a natural scoop shape that holds an optimal amount of dip.

What makes these chips particularly special for dipping is the way their flavor interacts with different dips:

• With guacamole, the chile heat creates a wonderful contrast to the creamy avocado
• Paired with salsa, they enhance rather than compete with the tomato and pepper flavors
• Against creamy dips like sour cream-based options, they create a delightful spicy-cool combination
• Even with hummus, the chile flavor adds an unexpected but welcome dimension

My personal favorite pairing is using them with a simple black bean dip—the earthiness of the beans complements the roasted chile notes perfectly.

Beyond the Original: Other Flavors in the Line

While this guide focuses on their Hatch Chile variety, it’s worth mentioning that Bettergoods offers several variations on this theme:

• Hatch Chile & Lime: Adds a more pronounced citrus note to the chile flavor
• Hatch Chile & Garlic: Introduces roasted garlic for an extra dimension
• Hatch Chile & Sea Salt: A slightly milder version with extra saltiness
• Seasonal Smoky Hatch: Available in limited quantities during chile harvest season, with intensified smoky notes

They also produce a “Hatch Chile Heat Scale” variety pack that includes mild, medium, and hot versions, allowing you to choose your preferred spice level or create a tasting flight experience.

I’ve tried them all, and while the original remains my go-to, the Hatch Chile & Garlic version makes a regular appearance in my pantry as well. The garlic doesn’t overpower the chile flavor but adds a wonderful savory note that works especially well with cheese-based dips.

What Are People Saying? Customer Reviews

I’m clearly a fan, but I’m not alone in my enthusiasm for these chips. In researching this guide, I’ve compiled impressions from various sources including online reviews, social media comments, and conversations with fellow snack enthusiasts.

The positive comments consistently mention:

• The authentic chile flavor that “tastes like real peppers, not just spice”
• The perfect balance of heat that’s “noticeable but not overwhelming”
• The high-quality texture and crunch that “holds up to heavy dipping”
• The clean ingredient list with “no mysterious additives”

The few criticisms typically center around:

• The premium price point being “too expensive for everyday snacking”
• Availability issues in some regions where “they’re hard to find consistently”
• Some finding them “not spicy enough” (particularly those who prefer extreme heat)

Interestingly, even among those who mention the higher price, many still conclude that they’re “worth the splurge” for the quality difference. One review I found particularly captured my own experience: “These ruined regular tortilla chips for me—I can’t go back to the bland, mass-produced versions anymore.”

Promotions and Discounts: Getting the Best Deal

If you’re convinced to try these chips but concerned about the price, here are some strategies I’ve used to make them more affordable:

• Subscribe and Save: Bettergoods offers a 10-15% discount on recurring shipments through their website.
• Seasonal Sales: They typically run promotions during Hatch chile season (August-September) and major holidays.
• New Customer Discounts: First-time buyers can often get 10% off by signing up for their email list.
• Bulk Purchasing: As mentioned earlier, the per-ounce cost decreases significantly with larger packages.
• Social Media Giveaways: Following them on Instagram and Facebook can alert you to periodic contests and giveaways.

I’ve found that the most consistent savings come from the subscription model. By committing to a regular delivery (which you can pause or modify anytime), I save about $8-10 per month compared to buying individual bags at retail prices.

Creative Uses Beyond Snacking

While these chips are perfect for straight-out-of-the-bag snacking, their distinctive flavor makes them versatile for other culinary uses. Here are some of my favorite alternative applications:

• Crushed as a coating for baked chicken or fish, creating a spicy crust
• As a topping for casseroles instead of plain breadcrumbs
• Crumbled into soups just before serving for texture and flavor
• Mixed into cornbread batter for spicy, textured cornbread
• As a base layer in nachos where their flavor can shine through the toppings

My favorite creative use is crushing them slightly and using them as the base for a Mexican-inspired salad. The chips add crunch and spice, turning a simple salad into something special.

My Personal Bettergoods Journey: From Skeptic to Ambassador

When I first encountered these chips, I was admittedly skeptical about whether any tortilla chip could justify a premium price tag. I’d tried plenty of “gourmet” chips before and found most of them to be style over substance—all fancy packaging and marketing with little meaningful difference in the eating experience.

Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips changed my perspective. The first bag disappeared alarmingly quickly. The second bag, purchased just to confirm my initial impression, vanished just as fast. By the third bag, I was examining the ingredient list, researching Hatch chiles, and trying to understand what made these chips so addictively good.

What started as curiosity has evolved into genuine appreciation for a company that’s doing things right—using quality ingredients, honoring a specific food tradition (Hatch chiles), and creating a product with integrity. I’ve since explored more of their product line and found a similar commitment to quality across the board.

I won’t claim these chips have changed my life—they’re still just chips, after all—but they’ve certainly elevated my snacking standards and given me a greater appreciation for the difference thoughtful sourcing and production can make, even in something as seemingly simple as a tortilla chip.

Final Thoughts: Are They Worth Seeking Out?

After consuming more bags of Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips than I care to admit and thoroughly researching their production, ingredients, and company practices, I can confidently say these chips deserve their growing cult following.

What makes them special isn’t any single factor but the combination of thoughtful elements: the authentic Hatch chile flavor, the perfect textural balance, the clean ingredient list, and the obvious care that goes into their production. They represent what good food should be—simple ingredients transformed through careful craftsmanship into something greater than the sum of its parts.

Are they an everyday chip for everyone? Perhaps not, given the price point. But as an elevated snacking experience or a special treat, they offer excellent value. And for chile lovers or those who appreciate authentic Southwestern flavors, they provide a taste experience that’s difficult to find elsewhere.

If you’ve made it this far in my rather passionate exploration of a tortilla chip, I suspect you’re the type of person who might appreciate these as much as I do. Should you spot that distinctive package with the green chile illustration, I encourage you to give them a try. Just don’t blame me when your standard tortilla chips suddenly seem disappointing by comparison.

Because once you’ve experienced the ultimate artisanal tortilla chip experience that Bettergoods Hatch Chile Tortilla Chips provide, ordinary chips may never quite satisfy again. Consider yourself warned—and hopefully, soon to be delighted.