Air Fryer and Oven Baked Pasta Chips Recipe

If you are a fan of crunchy snacks that pack a punch of flavor, then the Air Fryer and Oven Baked Pasta Chips Recipe is going to become your new go-to treat. Imagine perfectly crisped pasta tossed in aromatic herbs, garlic, and a generous grating of Parmigiano Reggiano, creating a delightfully savory bite that’s utterly addictive. Whether crisped up in the air fryer or baked in the oven, these pasta chips are a fantastic way to reinvent leftover pasta or just enjoy a fun, unexpected snack that’s simple, tasty, and shares all the comforting familiarity of Italian flavors. Get ready for a snack that you’ll want to share — or maybe not!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Air Fryer and Oven Baked Pasta Chips Recipe relies on a handful of simple, essential ingredients that work harmoniously to create that perfect crunch and flavor burst. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to balance texture, taste, and aroma, resulting in a snack that’s both wholesome and indulgent.

• 200 g short pasta (FarFalle preferred): Its shape is perfect for catching the seasoning and crisping up nicely.
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: This adds richness and ensures the pasta crisps evenly with a beautiful golden color.
• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbal note that makes every chip irresistible.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle but vibrant garlic punch that elevates the flavor.
• 20 g Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese: The salty, nutty quality of this cheese creates a savory depth and helps the chips crisp.
• Chilli flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat, they add a perfectly balanced kick.

How to Make Air Fryer and Oven Baked Pasta Chips Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Just Over Al Dente

Start by boiling your short pasta in salted water according to the package instructions, but be careful to pull it out just a little over al dente. The pasta needs to be tender enough to eat but firm enough to hold its shape and crisp up during cooking. This is the crucial base for your chips.

Step 2: Season the Pasta

Drain your pasta well and transfer it to a large bowl. Toss it with extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano or Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and chili flakes if you like a bit of spice. This step infuses every little pasta piece with flavor, making sure the final chips are bursting with aromatic goodness.

Step 3: Add Parmigiano Reggiano

Grate the Parmigiano Reggiano right on top and mix everything thoroughly. This cheese not only adds its famous savory, nutty flavor but also helps create a beautiful, crispy coating when cooked. Don’t be shy with this step—it’s one of the secret stars of the recipe.

Step 4: Cooking Your Pasta Chips

For the air fryer method, 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 to ensure even browning. You’ll want those chips golden and crunchy but not burnt.

If you prefer oven baking, spread the pasta on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure the pieces don’t touch. Pop them in a 200°C (400°F) oven for 17–20 minutes, watching for that perfect golden brown color that signals crisp perfection.

How to Serve Air Fryer and Oven Baked Pasta Chips Recipe

Garnishes

Try a light sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. A dusting of extra cheese or a pinch of smoked paprika can also add fascinating layers of flavor and color that make your pasta chips look and taste irresistible.

Side Dishes

These pasta chips are excellent on their own as a snack, but they also pair wonderfully with dips like classic napoletana sauce, bright pesto, or even creamy hummus. Serve alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded light meal or appetizer.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving these pasta chips in small bowls at your next party, allowing guests to dunk into a variety of dips. For a fun twist, use them as crunchy croutons on top of soups or salads. Their unique texture and flavor will surprise and delight everyone at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The chips will stay crisp for a day or two, making for a perfect quick snack later.

Freezing

While freezing pasta chips isn’t ideal because they tend to lose their crunch, you can freeze the cooked pasta before crisping if you want to prepare in advance. When ready to eat, reheat as directed for best results.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly made crispness, place the chips in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes at the same cooking temperatures used initially. This step refreshes the texture, making them almost as good as the first time around.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Farfalle is ideal because of its shape and texture, other short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli also work well. Just make sure the pasta isn’t too small or too thin to maintain that crunch.

Is it necessary to use Parmigiano Reggiano?

Using Parmigiano Reggiano adds a unique savory flavor and helps crisp the chips perfectly, but you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or a good aged cheddar if preferred.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free version. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta might have slightly different cooking characteristics.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! The oven baking method works just as well. The key is spreading the pasta out to avoid overcrowding so they crisp evenly and do not steam.

How do I make the pasta chips spicier?

Adding chili flakes is a great start, but you can also toss the cooked pasta with a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to ramp up the heat and add a deeper smoky flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Air Fryer and Oven Baked Pasta Chips Recipe that transforms humble pasta into a wonderfully crunchy, flavor-packed snack. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving something unique and savory, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delightful. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!

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