From ‘Meh’ to ‘Must-Have’: I Tried Every Doritos Flavor I Could Find and Ranked Them For Your Snacking Pleasure

Food & Drink
From ‘Meh’ to ‘Must-Have’: I Tried Every Doritos Flavor I Could Find and Ranked Them For Your Snacking Pleasure

Doritos are the undisputed champions of the chip aisle. That legendary crunch, those daring flavors, and the unmistakable orange-fingered aftermath have turned them into a legend in snacking since 1966. Whether at Super Bowl parties or in late-night munchie moments, there’s a Doritos flavor to match every mood. With so many to choose from, selecting the right bag can be a high-risk mission. I’ve gone through hundreds of bags to get to you with the ultimate list of 14 Doritos flavors, from the head-scratchers to the downright game-changers. Grab a napkin and let’s embark on this flavor-filled ride!

Navigating the Doritos Universe

Doritos are more than chips they’re a phenomenon. Nacho Cheese fans or fleeting limited-edition riders, the offering can be dizzying. I’ve experienced my fair share of Doritos massacres and miracles, from party successes to snack mistakes in solitude. This ranking, founded on taste, harmony, and that devilish “one more chip” quality, will guide you through the winners and losers. Let’s begin at the bottom and move towards snack bliss.

a close up of a slice of cheese pizza
Photo by Bobby Mc Leod on Unsplash

1. Spicy Nacho Doritos

Starting off on the wrong foot, Spicy Nacho Doritos are a disappointment. I picked up a bag thinking I was getting a spicy spin on Nacho Cheese, but they’re barely different from the original. Where is the spice? There’s some subtle heat, but nothing that justifies calling it “spicy.” They’re not terrible just unnecessary. If you’re craving Nacho Cheese, get the original. Better Option: Go with original Nacho Cheese for the real cheesy punch.

2. Jacked [Ranch Dipped Hot Wings] Doritos

Jacked [Ranch Dipped Hot Wings] is a tailgate pipe dream, but it’s a flavor misstep. I was stoked for that ranch-buffalo wing duo, but the chips aren’t spicy and the ranch is an afterthought. The tangy buffalo sauce is good, but the dry, kind-of-baked texture is a letdown. And they leave your fingers redder than a sunset. Better Option: Get Blazin’ Buffalo & Ranch for a better version of this duo.

3. Simply Organic White Cheddar Doritos

Simply Organic White Cheddar Doritos promise an upscale cheddar experience, but fail to deliver. I tried the regular and spicy varieties, and although they’re cheesier than normal Doritos, they’re not anything that will revolutionize the world. The “organic” label is a nice touch, but don’t hold out hope for a health halo calories and fat are equivalent to other chips. They’re good, but not essential. Better Option: Opt for Ultimate Cheddar for a bolder cheese jolt.

4. Taco Flavor Doritos

Taco Flavor Doritos are a retro treat, as they were the original flavored Dorito. I adore the retro boxes and muted taco seasoning that complement salsa or queso. They have a bit of heat and robust corn taste, which makes them an excellent dipper. However, they’re difficult to find in snack packs, which prevents them from rising further. Better Alternative: Serve with guacamole as a party favorite.

5. Ultimate Cheddar Doritos

Ultimate Cheddar Doritos are a cheese aficionado’s best friend. I picked up a bag for movie night and was impressed with the strong cheddar taste that gets the chip-and-dip experience without the mess. They’re not as powdered as Cheetos, so your hands remain (most) clean. The catch? They’re hard to locate I searched four stores before finding a bag. Better Option: Serve with chili for a filling snack boost.

6. Poppin’ Jalapeno Doritos

Poppin’ Jalapeno Doritos are essentially jalapeno poppers in chip form. I had them first at a bar and enjoyed how they bring that cheesy, spicy appetizer magic to the table. The cheddar balances out the jalapeno kick and the corn chip wrap it all up. They aren’t as spicy as some of the others, but the taste is right on. Better Option: Enjoy with a cold beer to replicate the pub scene.

brown star shaped cookies on white surface
Photo by Tamas Pap on Unsplash

7. Blaze Doritos

Blaze Doritos set your taste buds ablaze! I cracked open a bag hoping for a Flamin’ Hot repeat, but these are on a whole other level of spicy with less of the red dust mess. The spice-to-corn balance is just right, providing a scorching crunch that requires a soda to accompany it. They’re full-on without being ferocious, so this is a spice enthusiast’s best friend. Better Option: Dip in a creamy sauce to temper the flame.

8. Blazin’ Buffalo & Ranch Doritos

Blazin’ Buffalo & Ranch Doritos correct what Jacked Hot Wings got wrong. I took these to game night, and they were devoured. The ranch taste is boosted by a buffalo kick that’s perfect not too spicy, not too bland. And they have less red dust, so your couch remains safe. They’re a fan favorite with tons of flavor. Better Option: Serve with celery sticks for a wing-like atmosphere.

a wooden table topped with lots of food
Photo by fabian jones on Unsplash

9. Flamas Doritos

Flamas Doritos are a spicy fiesta of chile and lime. I picked them up on a whim and was instantly hooked by the pungent, spicy combination that’s similar to Tostitos Hint of Lime, but amped up on steroids. They’re hot, but not unbearably so, with a citrusy kick that has you continuing to crunch. Red dust is unavoidable, but the taste is worth it. Better Option: Have with a margarita for a Mexican-themed snack fest.

Sweet Spicy Chili Doritos
Doritos | Doritos Football Display, just before Super bowl a… | Flickr, Photo by flickr.com, is licensed under CC BY 2.0

10. Sweet Spicy Chili Doritos

Sweet Spicy Chili Doritos are a surprise. I picked up a bag at a gas station and was amazed by the ideal sweet-spicy combination. They don’t require dip the taste is independent. Whether they’re copying chili or not, who cares? They’re addictive and found everywhere. I keep stockpiled for emergency snacking. Better Option: Enjoy with a cold soda for a cool contrast.

Collection of various flavored snack bags, perfect for party or snacking.
Photo by Marcia Salido on Pexels

11. Dinamita Chile Limon Doritos

Dinamita Chile Limon Doritos are a crispy, rolled-up flavor explosion. I adore their Takis-like design and the bold chile-lime flavor that’s tangy and hot. The heat is intense, but the lime balances it out. Yes, your fingers will resemble you wrestling with a chili pepper, but it’s a small sacrifice for snack perfection. Better Option: Serve with queso for the ultimate dip experience.

Cool Ranch Doritos
File:2020-04-02 04 39 02 A single Cool Ranch Dorito chip in the Franklin Farm section of Oak Hill, Fairfax County, Virginia.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

12. Cool Ranch Doritos

Cool Ranch Doritos are a party and gaming session staple. They’ve been enjoyed since 1986. Their tangy, creamy ranch flavor combined with the crunch of the corn chip is something I adore. They’re loved by everyone and don’t make your fingers greasy. It’s the go-to chip that can’t be faulted. Better Option: Pair with onion dip to get a classic combination.

Nacho Cheese Doritos
File:Nacho Cheese Flavor Doritos Ready to Party.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY 4.0

13. Nacho Cheese Doritos

Nacho Cheese Doritos are the queen of chips. I’ve been munching these since childhood, and that cheesy, orange-dusted glory never gets old. They’re a party must-have, delivering bold flavor with every crunch. Sure, your fingers will glow, but it’s a badge of honor. They’re iconic for a reason. Better Option: Pair with salsa for a nacho-inspired snack.

“” by Phil Denton is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

14. Tapatio Doritos

Tapatio Doritos are the undisputed champion. I was skeptical, but one bite changed everything. The hot sauce-inspired flavor balances tang, salt, and gentle heat from red peppers, making it bold yet approachable. Even spice skeptics will love these. They’re a flavor masterpiece that elevates the Doritos game. Better Option: Enjoy solo they’re perfect as is.

Crunch On with Confidence

From the Spicy Nacho failure to the Tapatio success, Doritos has a flavor for every mood. I’ve learned to bypass the flops and enjoy the gems after a snack session or two. Party or hang solo, this list will take you to the top bags. Grab your go-to flavor, hold on to napkins tight, and crunch boldly. The world of Doritos is yours to dominate!

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