If there’s one thing that Lay’s is known for, it’s their unconventional potato chip flavors. Since 2014, Lay’s has hosted a “Do Us A Flavor” contest that’s lead to many unique flavor suggestions such as Wavy Biscuits & Gravy, Wavy Mango Salsa, Kettle Cooked Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese, and Crispy Taco, the winner of the 2017 contest.
This year the potato chip company decided to be a bit more ambitious by releasing 8 New American Flavor Inspired Chips that are meant to represent different cuisines across the United States, along with 4 returning flavors. This is the most new flavors Lay’s has released at the same time, and I’m pretty over-welcomed with the huge selection.
The Flavors
Thai Sweet Chili (Pacific Northwest)
In the mood for Thai food? Then grab a bag of Lay’s Thai Sweet Chili. Inspired by the local cuisine of the Pacific Northwest, these chips are a perfect combination of sweet and spicy.
Chile Con Queso (Southwest)
While chips and guac are good, chips and queso are even better. Lay’s new Chile Con Queso have a distinctive creamy cheddar queso taste with a bit of spice at the end of each bite. Best part is that you don’t have to worry about spilling queso on your favorite shirt.
Fried Pickles with Ranch (Midwest)
To me, this flavor combination sounds a bit strange, but I’m also quite intrigued. Whether Lay’s is trying to keep up with the pickle trend or decided to include this flavor because fried pickles are a Midwest state fair staple, this chip is calling out to both ranch lovers and pickle enthusiasts.
Deep Dish Pizza (Heartland)
Ah, pizza. It’s a staple comfort food. What better way to enjoy it than in chip form. Lay’s New Deep Dish Pizza has all the flavor of a freshly baked deep dish pizza. Unfortunately, there’s no cheese pull, but we’ll just have to get over that.
Cajun Spice (Gulf Coast)
If you’re a fan of Southern cuisine, this is the right flavor for you. The Cajun Spice chips are seasoned with garlic, paprika, onion and oregano, giving these chips loads of flavor and spice. This is definitely the first flavor I want to try.
New England Lobster Roll (New England)
While the Fried Pickle with Ranch flavor has me a bit confused, Lay’s New England Lobster Roll has me completely speechless. Their website says that these chips taste like a fresh lobster roll but I’m questioning whether that’s something good or not.
Chesapeake Bay Crab Spice (Mid-Atlantic)
The East Coast is known for blue crab, so it’s no surprise that this sea creature was the inspiration behind Lay’s Mid-Atlantic region flavor. Savor the taste of the Bay with Chesapeake Bay Crab Spice chips and, if you close your eyes, you might just feel like you’re by the ocean.
Pimento Cheese (South)
Similar to the Chile Con Queso, the Pimento Cheese chip is flavored with cheddar cheese, but the cheddar flavor is a lot sharper. Plus, there is a hint of cayenne pepper to add some heat to your mid-day snack.
In addition to 8 completely new flavors, Lay’s is re-introducing four Taste of America flavors from the past. Soon you’ll see Wavy West Coast Truffle Fries, Wavy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Popper, Ketchup, and Wavy Fried Green Tomato back on the shelves of your local grocery store.
Lay’s New Taste of America flavors will be available for purchase end of July 2018 but these regionally-inspired flavors will only be available in stores in their respective markets. While that might seem unfair, you can get any flavor delivered right to your door step by ordering them online. Lay’s New American Inspired Chips are a limited time offer and will be around until September 23, 2018 so make sure you grab a bag or 8 before they’re gone.