Air Fryer Pasta Chips Recipe

Say hello to your new favorite snack: Air Fryer Pasta Chips! Crispy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make, these golden little bites are pure magic—impossibly satisfying, savory, and perfect for dipping. Pasta chips have gone viral for a reason, and once you taste these, you’ll understand why.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how effortless Air Fryer Pasta Chips are—every single ingredient shines with purpose. Choose a good quality pasta and cheese for the best flavor, and don’t be afraid to go all-in on those bold seasonings!

• Rigatoni noodles (8 ounces): Their tube shape turns crispy outside and hollow inside, giving you the perfect texture and plenty of dipable surface area.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided): Helps crisp the pasta while adding rich flavor; you’ll use some to coat the noodles and some to blend with spices.
• Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Brings an irresistible savory note that makes each bite pop—freshly minced is best!
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Not just for seasoning, but essential for bringing out the flavor in the cheese and pasta.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Pops of pepper add a gentle, warming background spice to every crunchy chip.
• Parmesan cheese, grated (½ cup): For a touch of nutty, salty cheesy magic—don’t skimp if you want that iconic pasta chip finish.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Air Fryer Pasta Chips is how you can make them your own. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free snack, craving a spicy twist, or just want to experiment with new cheeses and seasonings, the possibilities are almost endless!

• Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to give your chips a little heat.
• Vegan-Friendly: Use your favorite plant-based parmesan and olive oil for a totally dairy-free treat that still satisfies.
• Other Pastas: Try penne, rotini, or farfalle—each pasta shape gets a signature crunch and changes the whole vibe!
• Herbed Up: Mix in dried oregano, Italian seasoning, or rosemary for an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with cheesy dips.

How to Make Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Step 1: Cook and Prep the Pasta

Start by boiling your rigatoni until it’s just al dente—firm but cooked through. Be sure to drain it well, and if you have time, spread it out for a few minutes to prevent any steamy sogginess. This makes all the difference for achieving the best, crunchiest Air Fryer Pasta Chips texture.

Step 2: Coat the Pasta

Place the cooked, drained noodles in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of your olive oil, and toss gently to coat each noodle. You want every nook and cranny slicked with oil so they get gorgeously golden in the air fryer.

Step 3: Air Fry Until Crispy

Lay the oiled pasta in your air fryer basket or on the rack in a single, even layer. Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 8–10 minutes. Give them a little shake or stir halfway through so all sides crisp up beautifully—they should be deeply golden and crunchy all the way through!

Step 4: Toss with Seasonings & Serve

While the chips are still warm, transfer to a bowl. In a separate small bowl, mix up the remaining olive oil with the garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour this fragrant mixture over the chips and toss well. Sprinkle generously with grated parmesan, then serve your Air Fryer Pasta Chips straight away—preferably with something delicious for dipping!

How to Serve Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Garnishes

Shower your Air Fryer Pasta Chips with extra parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil, or a gentle dusting of crushed red pepper for color and a hint of heat. These tiny flourishes not only make your chips look irresistible but add exciting little pops of flavor in every bite!

Side Dishes

Pasta chips are the ultimate party snack, but they’re also fantastic with sides like a classic Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or antipasto platters. For dipping, go classic with warm marinara, or branch out with ranch, garlic aioli, or even a smoky cheese sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Air Fryer Pasta Chips into a conversation-starting centerpiece! Pile them high in a rustic bowl, lay them out on a snacking board with assorted dips, or serve in mini paper cones for an adorable party grab-and-go treat. Don’t be afraid to get playful—these chips are all about fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Air Fryer Pasta Chips (hey, it happens!), keep them crisp by storing in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2-3 days, though they’re best on the day you make them.

Freezing

While pasta chips are at their prime when fresh, you can freeze them in an airtight bag for up to one month. Let them cool completely before freezing and re-crisp in the air fryer for a couple of minutes before serving.

Reheating

To bring back their addictive crunch, simply pop the chips in your air fryer at 350°F for 1–2 minutes. They’ll taste almost as good as new—hot, crispy, and totally irresistible once again!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something delightfully different for your next snack or party, give Air Fryer Pasta Chips a whirl. They’re quick, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to get plenty of happy crunching at your table—just don’t be surprised when they disappear in a flash!

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