Air Fryer Pasta Chips Recipe

If you’ve been searching for your next obsession-worthy snack, get ready—Air Fryer Pasta Chips are a total game changer! Everything you love about golden, salty crunch and cheesy Italian flavor, all made with pantry pasta and a few basics. One bite, and you’ll see why everyone is going wild for these irresistible crispy bites.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You might be amazed at just how basic and beautiful this ingredient list is! These essential staples each play a starring role, from that crave-worthy crunch to the savory, garlicky finish that makes Air Fryer Pasta Chips unforgettable.

• Rigatoni noodles (8 ounces): Rigatoni’s hollow shape holds seasoning inside and gives maximum crunch—other short pasta shapes work too!
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and promotes even golden crispiness in the air fryer and when tossing with seasonings.
• Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Fresh garlic gives a robust, irresistible flavor boost.
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Balances and elevates all the flavors; don’t skimp!
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds depth and just a hint of heat to every crunchy bite.
• Grated parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melty, savory, and salty, it’s the ultimate finish for these pasta chips.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Air Fryer Pasta Chips is how easy it is to play with flavors! Don’t hesitate to get creative and adapt with your favorite seasonings, cheese swaps, or even to fit special diets—this snack is truly your own blank canvas.

• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder before air frying to up the heat.
• Vegan Delight: Swap parmesan for your favorite vegan hard cheese or nutritional yeast to keep things plant-based.
• Herby Italian: Add a teaspoon of dried basil or oregano for that classic Italian vibe, perfect for dipping in marinara.
• Different Pasta Shapes: Try penne, farfalle, or rotini—just be sure they’re cooked al dente for best crunch!

How to Make Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Step 1: Cook and Prep the Pasta

Start by boiling your rigatoni noodles until they’re just al dente—you want them slightly firm so they stay sturdy and crisp up nicely. Drain the noodles thoroughly and let them cool for a few minutes (this helps them dry out, making them extra crispy in the air fryer!).

Step 2: Toss with Oil and Arrange

Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil directly onto the cooked noodles and use your hands or a spatula to toss gently, making sure every piece spins in a little oil. This is what helps the pasta turn gorgeously golden. Arrange the noodles in a single, even layer in your air fryer basket or rack—try not to pile them up so they all crisp evenly!

Step 3: Air Fry Until Crispy

Air fry the pasta at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, pausing once or twice to shake the basket. Keep a close eye toward the end; you want deeply golden pasta chips, but not burnt! You’ll know they’re ready when they sound hollow if tapped and look deeply toasty.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Once the pasta chips are cool enough to handle, transfer them to a big bowl. Combine the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl, then pour this aromatic mixture over your chips. Toss, sprinkle generously with parmesan, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce—marinara is a classic, but creamy garlic sauce is fantastic too!

How to Serve Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, shower your Air Fryer Pasta Chips with freshly chopped parsley or basil right before serving. A dusting of extra parmesan, or even a fine sprinkle of smoked paprika, gives a gourmet finish with zero fuss.

Side Dishes

Pair these chips alongside a bright green salad, a cozy bowl of soup, or even as an appetizer with an array of dips—marinara, pesto, or creamy ranch. They’re fantastic on a party snack board with olives, cured meats, and fresh veggies for the ultimate sharing platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Air Fryer Pasta Chips in a parchment-lined basket for easy snacking, or thread larger shapes onto skewers for a playful twist. For parties, set up a DIY chip bar with bowls of different dips and garnishes—everyone will want to try their favorite combinations!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep leftovers at their crunchiest, store your cooled Air Fryer Pasta Chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they start to lose a little crisp, don’t worry—there’s an easy fix!

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for Air Fryer Pasta Chips, as moisture from the freezer can turn them chewy. For best results, make a fresh batch when the craving hits—or prep the cooked pasta in advance and fry right before serving.

Reheating

If your chips get a bit soft, just pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until revived and crunchy again. Watch closely to avoid burning, and enjoy just like they’re fresh!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Now you’ve got everything you need to make a batch of Air Fryer Pasta Chips that will have everyone reaching for “just one more.” Whether you’re sharing as a party snack or cozying up for movie night, this crunchy (and just a little bit magical) recipe is bound to become your new go-to treat. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!

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