Air Fryer Pasta Chips Recipe

If you’re looking for your next snack obsession, Air Fryer Pasta Chips are about to steal the show. Crunchy, cheesy, and wildly addictive, these chips have the satisfying snap of your favorite potato chips with the added heartiness of pasta. It’s a savory treat you can whip up with just a handful of pantry staples, making it one of those rare recipes that’s both crowd-pleasing and ridiculously easy. Whether you munch on them as a fun appetizer or serve them alongside movie night dips, Air Fryer Pasta Chips are the crispy, golden, flavorful snack you’ll crave time and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best thing about Air Fryer Pasta Chips is just how simple the ingredient list is. Each item on this list is a building block for flavor and texture—the key to that beautiful crunch and delicious savoriness that makes these chips so irresistible.

• Pasta (2 cups rigatoni or farfalle): Rigatoni holds seasoning in its ridges, while farfalle’s bow shape adds extra crunch. Go traditional, whole wheat, chickpea, or gluten-free—your preference!
• Extra-virgin olive oil (1–2 tbsp): Coats each piece for perfect browning and a hint of richness.
• Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Adds a savory, herby punch reminiscent of your favorite Italian snacks.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Delivers a mellow, toasty garlic note that ties all the flavors together.
• Salt (½ tsp): Essential for seasoning both the pasta and the chips themselves—don’t skimp!
• Black pepper (¼ tsp): Gives just enough warmth and depth to lift the overall taste.
• Grated parmesan cheese (½ cup): Bakes onto each chip for max savory, nutty flavor and extra crunch.

How to Make Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a lively boil. Add your rigatoni or farfalle and cook until just al dente—remember, slightly undercooked is best because the air fryer will crisp them up further. Drain the pasta well and immediately transfer it to a mixing bowl so it’s ready to soak up all those flavorful seasonings.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

As the pasta drains, set your air fryer to preheat at 380°F. Giving your air fryer a little head start ensures that your pasta chips hit a hot basket and crisp up beautifully.

Step 3: Season the Pasta

Toss the warm, drained pasta with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and parmesan cheese. Make sure each piece is evenly coated, as every layer of flavor makes these Air Fryer Pasta Chips even more addictive. If you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle a little extra parmesan for bonus crunch.

Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Pour the seasoned pasta into your preheated air fryer basket, spreading it out as much as possible so hot air can circulate. Cook for 10 to 14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through (around the 6-minute mark) to help everything brown evenly. Each air fryer is unique, so keep an eye out—you’re aiming for golden, shattering crispness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once crisp and fragrant, remove your Air Fryer Pasta Chips from the basket and let them cool for just a moment—they’ll crisp up even more as they sit. For maximum wow factor, shower them with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. Serve right away, preferably with your favorite dips on standby.

How to Serve Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Garnishes

For a pop of color and flavor, toss your Air Fryer Pasta Chips with a little more grated parmesan while they’re still hot and finish with a scattering of fresh parsley or basil. A pinch of crushed red pepper adds a gentle kick for spice lovers, too.

Side Dishes

Air Fryer Pasta Chips are fantastic alongside a spread of Italian classics—think fresh Caesar salads, warm caprese skewers, or a selection of rustic antipasti. They also make the perfect crisp companion to hearty tomato soups or a vibrant green salad for a lighter contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your pasta chips into a fun party starter by piling them in a rustic bowl with a flight of dips: classic marinara, pesto, or whipped ricotta brighten up every bite. You can even serve them nacho-style, topped with melted mozzarella and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, for an inventive Italian twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Air Fryer Pasta Chips cool completely before storing to maintain their crunch. Transfer them to an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to three days. Just resist the urge to seal them up while still warm, as steam can steal away that perfect crispiness.

Freezing

While these chips are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch, you can freeze fully cooled Air Fryer Pasta Chips in a zip-top freezer bag for up to one month. Lay the chips flat so they won’t clump together, and only freeze if necessary—texture can change after thawing.

Reheating

Need to revive your pasta chips? Pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. This quickly brings back their crisp bite, so they taste almost like they just came out of the basket.

FAQs

Can I use any type of pasta for Air Fryer Pasta Chips?

Absolutely! While rigatoni and farfalle hold up best and deliver the best crunch, penne, ziti, and rotini are also great options. Just be sure to avoid smaller pasta shapes, as they can fall through the air fryer basket.

Why didn’t my pasta chips get crispy?

If your Air Fryer Pasta Chips are more chewy than crispy, you might have overcooked the pasta or crowded the basket. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, shake the basket halfway through air frying, and don’t overlap the pasta too much.

Can I make Air Fryer Pasta Chips without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the parmesan for a dairy-free or vegan version—just amp up the seasoning with extra herbs or add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

What are the best dips for serving Air Fryer Pasta Chips?

Classic marinara and creamy pesto are always favorites, but try pairing these chips with whipped feta, garlic aioli, or even salsa for a totally new flavor experience. The crisp texture pairs well with anything creamy or saucy.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Definitely! Simply cook your pasta chips in batches so they don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Keep each batch warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest, then serve them all at once for a crowd-pleasing, crunchy snack.

Final Thoughts

You’re officially ready to make Air Fryer Pasta Chips your new go-to snack! It’s hard not to smile as you crunch into a handful of these golden, cheesy wonders—you may never look at a box of pasta the same way again. Give them a try and watch everyone come running for more.

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