If you’re a fan of crispy, crunchy snacks that are easy to make and full of flavor, then you’re going to love Air Fryer Pasta Chips. These chips are a perfect alternative to traditional potato chips, and they come together in a matter of minutes using just a few simple ingredients. Thanks to the air fryer, you can achieve that satisfying crunch without the excess oil and calories of deep frying. Whether you’re looking for a fun snack to enjoy while watching your favorite show or a unique appetizer for a party, these pasta chips are the perfect choice.
In this recipe, we’ll be tossing pasta in a flavorful blend of olive oil and seasonings, then cooking it to crispy perfection in the air fryer. The best part? You can customize the flavor to suit your preferences—whether you like them tangy, spicy, or herby. Ready to make some delicious Air Fryer Pasta Chips? Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Pasta: The base of this recipe is pasta—choose a small shape like rotini, penne, or farfalle. These shapes are perfect for creating crispy chips. The pasta will be boiled first, then seasoned and air-fried for that ultimate crunch.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps the pasta achieve a golden, crispy exterior without deep frying. It also adds a subtle richness to the chips. You can use any high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a savory, umami-packed flavor that complements the crispy pasta. Parmesan gives the chips an extra crunch and a cheesy, slightly nutty finish.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings a hint of savory warmth to the chips, enhancing their overall flavor profile. It’s a perfect match for the other seasonings.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs, Italian seasoning adds depth and complexity to the chips. You’ll get a taste of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary in every bite.
Salt and Pepper: The salt and pepper will help bring out the other flavors, making the chips as tasty as they are crispy.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups of small pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Pasta Chips
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. You want the pasta to be al dente, so don’t overcook it! Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool for a few minutes.
Step 2: Season the Pasta
After the pasta has cooled slightly, transfer it to a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the pasta and toss to coat evenly. Add the grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and toss again to ensure every piece is coated in the seasoning.
Step 3: Air Fry the Pasta
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned pasta in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. The pasta chips should be golden brown and crispy when they’re done.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pasta chips are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them on their own as a snack!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: To get the best crisp, make sure there’s enough space between the pasta pieces. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
- Experiment with seasonings: You can easily adjust the seasoning to your liking. Try adding a little chili powder for some heat, or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh twist.
- Use different pasta shapes: While small pasta shapes work best, you can experiment with different ones. Just make sure they’re bite-sized and sturdy enough to hold up during the cooking process.
- Perfect your air fryer technique: Every air fryer is a bit different, so keep an eye on the pasta chips as they cook. If they’re not as crispy as you’d like, cook them for an extra minute or two.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe? Yes! Gluten-free pasta works just as well in this recipe. Just follow the same instructions and adjust the cooking time if needed, depending on the type of gluten-free pasta you choose.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Pasta Chips? These chips are great on their own or paired with a variety of dipping sauces. Try them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Can I make these ahead of time? While pasta chips are best served fresh and crispy, you can make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for a day or two. Just reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to bring back their crunch.
How do I store leftover pasta chips? Store any leftover pasta chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid refrigerating them.
Now you have the perfect recipe for crispy, golden Air Fryer Pasta Chips! Whether you’re serving them as a fun snack or using them as an appetizer for a gathering, these chips are sure to be a hit.