Image by Werner Weisser from Pixabay
If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for a snack that actually delivers on that satisfying “crunch” factor. I’ve tried my fair share of chips over the years, but I recently had the chance to dive into Smash Kitchen’s Kettle Cooked Potato Chips, and let’s just say my snack game has been officially leveled up.
I had the opportunity to put four of their signature flavors to the test. If you’re a fan of that deep, satisfying “kettle crunch,” you’re going to want to pull up a chair for this one. This isn’t just another celebrity-backed brand—it’s a lineup that actually brings something new to the table (or the snack bowl!).
Before we get into the taste test, we have to talk about the man behind the brand. You likely know Glenn Powell from his massive hits like Top Gun: Maverick, Anyone But You, and Twisters. He’s also starred in the remake of Running Man.
Glen Powell at the 2025 CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Nevada. PHOTO CREDIT: Wikipedia
Glenn isn’t just a face for Smash Kitchen; he’s deeply involved in the product line. As a proud Texan, he wanted to create a snack that reflected his roots—bold, authentic, and high-quality. His company focuses on “elevated” snacking, moving away from the greasy, over-processed chips we grew up with and moving toward something that feels a bit more artisanal and intentional.
When you walk down the snack aisle, there are dozens of options. So, what makes Smash Kitchen stand out? For me, it comes down to three things: texture, ingredients, and the lack of “grease-finger.”
1. The “Ultimate” Crunch
Kettle chips are known for being harder and crunchier than standard potato chips because they are batch-cooked rather than moved through a continuous fryer. However, some brands go too far—they end up being so hard they hurt the roof of your mouth. Smash Kitchen has hit the “sweet spot” crunchy zone. They are incredibly crispy and have a hearty “snap” without being overly dense.
2. Cleaner Ingredients
As someone who spent years reading labels (especially in a school environment where I have to be select in the snacks I serve), I appreciate a short ingredient list. Smash Kitchen prioritizes real potatoes and quality oils. You can taste the difference when a chip isn’t masked by artificial flavor enhancers.
3. Non-Greasy Finish
There is nothing worse than reaching for a chip and ending up with oily hands. These chips feel dry to the touch, meaning the oil used in the cooking process is high-quality and well-drained, leaving you with just the flavor and the crunch.
I received the following flavors to review from Smash Kitchen.
Rosemary (My Absolute Favorite!)
I have to start with the winner. If you like savory, herbal flavors, the Rosemary chip is a total game-changer. Often, rosemary-flavored snacks can taste a bit like perfume, but Smash Kitchen got this exactly right. It’s earthy, fragrant, and pairs perfectly with the natural saltiness of the potato. This is the kind of chip you put out on a charcuterie board when you want to impress your guests. The texture here was particularly impressive—every chip felt perfectly “curled” and crunchy.
American Style Barbecue
Barbecue is a staple, but it’s hard to get right. Some are too sweet; some are too smoky. This version is “American Style,” which to me means a beautiful balance of tangy tomato, a hint of sweetness, and a smoky finish. They are delicious and crispy, and they have that classic “red” seasoning that makes you want to keep reaching back into the bag. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure.
Classic Sea Salt
You really can’t go wrong with a classic like this. If a brand can’t master Sea Salt, they can’t master anything else. Smash Kitchen’s Sea Salt chips are the gold standard for a “dipping chip.” They are sturdy enough to hold up to a heavy onion dip or guacamole, but they are flavorful enough to eat entirely on their own. The salt level is perfectly calibrated—not so salty that you’re parched, but enough to make the potato flavor pop.
Hot Honey Barbecue
Full disclosure for my regular readers: I haven’t actually tried this bag yet. Personally, I am not a fan of hot and spicy things (I’m a wimp when it comes to heat!), so I’m saving this bag for a brave guest. However, “Hot Honey” is one of the biggest trends in food right now, and knowing the quality of the other flavors, I’m sure it’s a hit for those who enjoy that sweet-and-spicy profile.
One thing I noticed while reviewing the nutritional information is that these chips feel “lighter” than your average snack. While they are still a treat, the quality of the potatoes used is evident. They aren’t paper-thin; they have a thickness that suggests a higher-quality tuber. For those of us who are conscious about what we put in our bodies—and what we serve our families—having a “cleaner” chip option is a huge plus.
Are Smash Kitchen Kettle Chips worth a try? In a word: Yes. Whether you’re a fan of Glenn Powell’s movies or just a fan of a really good snack, Smash Kitchen delivers. They have managed to take a humble potato chip and make it feel like a premium experience. The Rosemary flavor alone is worth a special trip to the store or an online order.
I encourage you to visit the Smash Kitchen website to see their full range of products and perhaps grab a variety pack so you can find your own favorite. Also, make sure to follow them on social media—they often post fun behind-the-scenes content with Glenn and updates on new flavor launches!
What about you? Are you a “Classic Sea Salt” person, or are you brave enough to try the Hot Honey Barbecue? Let me know in the comments below. I always love to hear from my readers.
Kimberly
*I received free product samples in order to do this review. There was no compensation. The opinions expressed are my own and not influenced in any way.
