Do Share Recipe

I’ll admit, when I first saw the TikTok trend for Pasta Chips Recipe, I was skeptical. Pasta as a chip? It sounded a little crazy! But curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did because these little crispy bites turned out golden, crunchy, and addictively delicious.

They are quick to make, versatile, and perfect for snacking any time of the day. Whether you use an air fryer or your oven, pasta chips are surprisingly easy to prepare and a fun twist on a classic snack. You can also enjoy similar Mediterranean Pizza Recipe for a savory bite.

Ingredients to Make Pasta Chips

Making these crunchy pasta chips is simple, and each ingredient plays a key role in flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

200 g short pasta (I used farfalle, but shells, fusilli, or rigatoni also work well; gluten-free and pulse pasta are great for alternatives)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (you can swap with avocado oil for a milder taste)
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (adds a fragrant, herby flavor)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (for that irresistible savory kick)
20 g Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (freshly grated is best; use nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
Chili flakes, optional (if you like a subtle heat)

Note: This recipe serves 4 generously. Adjust quantities depending on your serving size.

Variations

I love experimenting with flavors, and these pasta chips are perfect for customization:

Swap Parmesan for vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a plant-based version.
Add paprika, cumin, turmeric, or chili powder to mix up the flavor profile.
Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning for a fun twist.
For extra crunch, try baking them slightly longer, but watch closely to avoid burning. If you enjoy classic dishes, you might also love the Classic French Chateaubriand alongside these snacks for a more indulgent meal.

Cooking Time

Making these crunchy snacks is quicker than you’d think:

Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–20 minutes depending on method
Total Time: 17–27 minutes

Equipment You Need

Here’s what I use when making pasta chips:

Large pot – to boil pasta evenly
Colander – to drain pasta quickly
Mixing bowl – for tossing pasta with seasonings
Grater – to grate fresh Parmesan cheese
Air fryer or baking tray – for crisping the pasta
Parchment paper – prevents sticking if using the oven

How to Make Pasta Chips Recipe

These chips are easy and fun to make. Let me break it down step by step.

Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. I like to cook mine just over al dente so the pasta holds up well during baking or air frying. Drain carefully to avoid mushy pasta.

Season the Pasta

Once drained, place the pasta in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, chili flakes (if using), and freshly grated Parmesan. Toss until each piece is well coated in the flavorful mix.

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C/350°F. Spread the pasta evenly in the basket and cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through. They should come out golden brown, crunchy, and irresistible.

Oven Baked Pasta Chips

Preheat your oven to 200°C/400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread pasta pieces without overlapping. Bake for 17–20 minutes until golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making these several times, I’ve discovered a few tricks:

I always use freshly grated Parmesan; it melts and crisps better.
Make sure pasta pieces aren’t touching in the air fryer or oven; it ensures even crunch.
Tossing pasta while warm helps the oil and seasonings stick better.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or your favorite spice mix.

How to Serve Pasta Chips Recipe

Serving these pasta chips is half the fun. I love arranging them in a colorful bowl and pairing them with dips:

Serve with a fresh napoletana sauce, creamy pesto, or even hummus.
Sprinkle extra Parmesan or chili flakes on top for a visual and flavorful boost.
These are perfect as a movie snack, party appetizer, or crunchy side with soup.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’re enjoying in each serving:

Calories: 302 kcal
Protein: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 13 g

Even though they are crunchy and satisfying like chips, making them at home allows you to control the oil and seasoning, making them a healthier snack option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Keep pasta chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for 2–3 days.

Freezing: You can freeze cooked pasta chips for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a preheated air fryer or oven rather than a microwave; this keeps them crunchy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why these pasta chips are an absolute win:

Easy to make: Minimal ingredients and quick prep make this a stress-free snack.
Versatile: Swap seasonings, cheeses, or pasta types to suit your taste.
Fun to share: Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a creative appetizer.
Healthier alternative: Air-fried or oven-baked versions cut down on excess oil.
Crowd-pleaser: Crispy, cheesy, and savory, they appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Pasta chips might look unconventional, but they are a total game-changer. Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, they’re a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you stick to the classic Parmesan and oregano or get adventurous with spices, these crunchy bites will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ben Carraoli