These golden, salty Pasta Chips are the ultimate crunchy snack. Whether air-fried or baked, this viral appetizer delivers a satisfying snap with Italian seasoning and Parmesan in every bite.
8ozuncooked short pasta (farfalle, elbow noodles, penne, rigatoni, ziti, rotini)
1tspdried Italian seasoning
1tspgarlic powder
1/2tspkosher salt
1/4tspblack pepper
1/4cupParmesan cheese
Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
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Instructions
Boil the pasta to true al dente
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in the pasta and cook according to the box directions until al dente, ensuring it still has a firm bite in the center.
Drain thoroughly and give the colander a few good shakes to remove water from the curves. Transfer the hot pasta into a large mixing bowl.
Build the “Bloomed Spiced Oil” coating
While the pasta is warm, spray it generously with olive oil cooking spray and toss until every piece looks lightly glossy.
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Toss vigorously so the spices darken slightly and become fragrant.
Add the Parmesan cheese and toss again until the bowl looks evenly dusted and slightly sticky, with cheese catching in the ridges.
Choose your crisping method: air fryer or oven
For the Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F. Spread pasta in the basket in a single layer without overlapping. Cook for 4 minutes, shake the basket, then cook for another 4-5 minutes until golden brown and audibly crisp. Repeat in batches if necessary.
For the Oven: Preheat to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the pasta in a single layer and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve immediately with your favorite dip.
Notes
Texture Tip: Ensure the pasta is cooked to al dente (firm) before baking or air frying. Overcooked pasta will turn chewy rather than crisp.Storage: Allow chips to cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crunchy for 2-3 days.Reheating: To restore crunch, place chips in an air fryer at 350°F for 2 minutes.Gluten-Free: Chickpea or brown rice pasta can be used but tends to brown faster; monitor closely during the final minutes of cooking.Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.