Pasta Chips

Introduction

You’d never guess this crunchy snack started as a simple box of pasta.

Pasta Chips are crispy, golden, wildly addictive, and surprisingly easy to make. They’re everything you love about chips — salty, crunchy, snackable — but with a fun twist that feels a little unexpected. Tossed in olive oil, seasoned generously, then baked or air-fried until perfectly crisp, they turn into the kind of snack that disappears the second you set the bowl down.

They’re trending for a reason. One bite gives you that satisfying crackle, followed by a warm, toasty flavor and just enough chew in the center to remind you it’s pasta. Dip them in marinara, whipped feta, or creamy ranch, and suddenly you have the ultimate party snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra crispy outside with a slightly chewy center
• Made from simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces
• Budget-friendly and fun to customize
• Great for parties, movie nights, or casual snacking

Ingredients

12 oz short pasta (bow tie, rigatoni, penne, or rotini work best)
2–3 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-Ins:

• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Smoked paprika for depth
• Extra parmesan for topping
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Tip: Shapes with ridges or folds crisp up beautifully and hold seasoning better.

How to Make It

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until just al dente — not too soft. You want it slightly firm so it crisps properly.
2. Drain & Dry
   Drain well and let it steam off for a few minutes. Excess moisture prevents crispiness.
3. Season
   Toss the warm pasta with olive oil, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Bake or Air FryOven Method:
   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Spread pasta in a single layer on a lined baking sheet.
   • Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
   Air Fryer Method:
   • Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12–15 minutes.
   • Shake basket halfway through.
5. Cool Slightly
   Let them cool for 5 minutes — they’ll crisp up even more as they sit.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Extra Crispy: Cook pasta 1 minute longer than al dente before baking.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Spicy Version: Toss with chili flakes and a drizzle of hot honey after baking.
• Ranch Style: Use ranch seasoning instead of Italian seasoning.
• Sweet Twist: Toss with cinnamon sugar instead of savory seasoning for dessert-style chips.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Re-crisp in the oven for a few minutes if needed.

Serving Ideas

Serve Pasta Chips:

• With warm marinara sauce
• Alongside whipped feta or garlic aioli
• As a crunchy side to soups or salads
• On a snack board with olives, cheese, and cured meats
• At game nights, birthday parties, or casual gatherings

They look beautiful piled high in a rustic bowl with a small dipping dish in the center. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a dusting of parmesan right before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Conclusion

Pasta Chips prove that the best snacks don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little heat, you get something crunchy, flavorful, and completely crave-worthy.

They’re fun, customizable, and guaranteed to spark conversation when someone asks, “Wait… are those pasta?”

Save this recipe for your next gathering — or make a batch tonight and see how quickly they disappear.