Meatball Chips: Ingredients, Nutrition, and How to Enjoy Them

Move over, classic potato chips—there’s a new snack in town. Meatball chips are revolutionizing the snacking game with their bold flavor, satisfying crunch, and protein-packed profile. Whether you’re a meat lover looking for a high-protein treat or a foodie eager to try something new, this savory snack deserves your attention.

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what meatball chips are, their ingredients, nutritional benefits, and the best ways to enjoy them.

What Are Meatball Chips?

Meatball chips are exactly what they sound like—a creative fusion of traditional meatballs and crispy chip-style snacks. Unlike conventional meatballs, which are served soft and juicy, meatball chips are dehydrated or oven-baked to create a crunchy texture similar to jerky or thin meat crisps.

They retain all the meaty flavor of a classic Italian meatball but with a shelf-stable, snackable twist. Some are made from real ground meat, while others may be plant-based or enhanced with extra spices to mimic the authentic taste of seasoned meatballs.

Origin of the Meatball Chip Craze

Meatball chips originated as a protein-rich snack alternative for fitness enthusiasts and keto dieters looking for low-carb, high-protein options. However, their rich flavor and fun concept have expanded their appeal far beyond niche diet markets.

Social media foodies and gourmet snack brands have played a major role in making meatball chips a viral sensation. Influencers tout them as the "ultimate savory crunch," and companies are now experimenting with global meatball variations—from Swedish to spicy Asian styles.

How Are Meatball Chips Made?

The production process varies slightly depending on whether the chips are meat-based or plant-based, but the general steps include:

Ingredient Prep: Ground meat or meat substitutes are blended with herbs like oregano, parsley, garlic, onion, and sometimes Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs for authenticity.
Forming: The mixture is formed into thin, chip-like rounds. Some versions are even shaped into bite-sized crisps or flat discs.
Cooking: These discs are then baked, air-fried, or dehydrated to remove moisture and achieve a crunchy, shelf-stable consistency.
Flavor Enhancements: Additional flavorings—like spicy marinara, smoky barbecue, or tangy Parmesan—are often added as seasoning dust, just like traditional chips.

Ingredients in Meatball Chips

The exact ingredient list can vary by brand and preparation style, but the core elements typically include:

1. Ground Meat

Beef, pork, chicken, or turkey are common bases.
Some brands also offer lamb or bison versions.

2. Seasonings & Herbs

Garlic, onion powder, oregano, basil, and parsley.
Salt, black pepper, and sometimes a hint of red pepper flakes for spice.

3. Binding Agents

Eggs, cheese, or breadcrumbs (in minimal amounts) help hold everything together during the chip-forming process.

4. Optional Add-ins

Parmesan cheese, tomato powder, or marinara seasoning to enhance the classic meatball flavor.
Some gourmet versions might include truffle oil or sun-dried tomatoes.

Nutritional Profile of Meatball Chips

Meatball chips are not just tasty—they can also be a more nutritious alternative to traditional fried snacks. Here's a general nutritional breakdown (varies by brand and meat type):

Nutrient	Per 1 oz (28g) serving
Calories	120–160 kcal
Protein	12–18g
Fat	8–12g
Carbohydrates	1–4g

In summary, the nutritional profile of Meatball Chips makes them a flavorful and protein-packed snack option that satisfies both cravings and macros.

Health Benefits

Meatball chips may appeal to those looking for:

High in protein: Great for post-workout recovery or as a midday energy booster.
Low-carb and keto-friendly: Suitable for those on low-carb, keto, or paleo diets.
Shelf-stable: Ideal for on-the-go snacking or meal prepping.

However, some commercial versions may be high in sodium or contain preservatives. Always check the label if you’re watching your intake.

How to Enjoy Meatball Chips

Whether you're eating them straight out of the bag or getting creative in the kitchen, there are plenty of ways to enjoy meatball chips:

Snack Straight from the Bag: Meatball chips are deliciously crunchy and packed with flavor, making them perfect for snacking on their own. Whether you're at the office, on a road trip, or packing a lunchbox, they’re a convenient and satisfying treat.
Pair with Your Favorite Dips: Take the flavor up a notch by dipping meatball chips in classic marinara for a traditional touch, or try ranch, cheese dip, or spicy aioli for a more modern spin. The bold taste of the chips pairs well with a variety of sauces.
Top Off Your Salads: Craving more crunch and protein in your salad? Use meatball chips as a flavorful topping for Caesar or garden salads—they bring a savory twist to every bite.
Upgrade Your Charcuterie Board: Add a unique element to your next charcuterie spread by replacing standard crackers with meatball chips. Their distinctive flavor and texture will wow your guests and elevate your presentation.
Crush and Sprinkle for Added Flavor: Crushed meatball chips make a great garnish. Sprinkle them over pasta, pizza, or soups for an extra layer of crunch and rich, meaty flavor.

Are Meatball Chips Right for You?

If you’re someone who:

Loves bold, savory flavors,
Follows a high-protein or low-carb diet,
Enjoys trying innovative snacks,

Then meatball chips are definitely worth a try. They combine the nostalgia of homemade meatballs with the convenience of a modern snack food.

Meatball Chips vs. Traditional Chips

Curious how meatball chips stack up against your favorite traditional snacks? Let’s break down the flavor, texture, and nutritional differences.

Feature	Meatball Chips	Traditional Chips
Main Ingredient	Meat or plant-based protein	Potatoes or corn
Texture	Crispy, chewy, or jerky-like	Crunchy
Protein Content	High	Low
Carbs	Low to none	High
Flavor Complexity	Rich, umami, meaty	Varies (salty, cheesy, etc.)

Whether you're craving the classic crunch of traditional chips or the bold, savory flavor of the best meatball chips, your perfect snack depends on your taste and cravings.

Where to Find Meatball Chips

You can buy meatball chips from trusted sources like the New Munchies store, known for curating unique, high-protein snacks. They're also available through select gourmet retailers and online platforms focused on keto-friendly or fitness-focused treats. As demand rises, expect to see even more tasty varieties hitting mainstream shelves and meal kits.

Final Thoughts

In a world full of repetitive snack options, meatball chips bring something truly unique to the table. Packed with flavor, rich in protein, and versatile enough for any occasion, they’re more than just a novelty—they’re a game-changer for snack lovers everywhere.

So, the next time you’re craving something meaty, crunchy, and totally satisfying, grab a bag of meatball chips—your taste buds (and your gains) will thank you.

Search our store

Meatball Chips: Ingredients, Nutrition, and How to Enjoy Them

What Are Meatball Chips?

Origin of the Meatball Chip Craze

How Are Meatball Chips Made?