Air Fryer Pasta Chips– A Crispy Snack You’ll Love

Name: Air Fryer Pasta Chips
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, bowtie, or rigatoni); 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe

Every summer growing up, my Nonna would make the most delightful pasta salads and baked ziti—but I guarantee she never thought pasta could be turned into a chip! When I first heard of Air Fryer Pasta Chips, I was skeptical. But one crunchy bite later, I was completely hooked.

These crispy bites are everything you want in a snack: crunchy, salty, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. And the best part? They’re made in the air fryer, which means minimal oil and maximum crisp. Whether you’re prepping for a pool party or just craving something different, this trendy treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Let’s dive into how you can whip up your own batch of golden, crunchy pasta chips at home.

“Air fryer pasta chips are the ultimate snack hack—crispy, crunchy, and packed with flavor, they’ll become your new obsession!”

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
Air fried—not deep fried: Healthier, lighter, and no greasy mess.
Customizable: Go cheesy, spicy, or herby—your choice!
Great for dipping: Pair with marinara, pesto, or even hummus.

Ingredients

Cooked pasta (short types work best: penne, rigatoni, farfalle, rotini)
Olive oil
Grated parmesan cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Dried oregano
Salt and pepper
Chili flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

Optional Dips

Marinara sauce
Basil pesto
Spicy aioli
Creamy ranch

Tools You’ll Need

Air fryer
Large mixing bowl
Slotted spoon or tongs
Paper towels (for cooling)

How to Make Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Seasoned uncooked pasta coated with herbs and cheese

1: Cook Your Pasta Al Dente

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water just until al dente. You don’t want it too soft—it should still have a slight bite, which helps it hold its shape and crisp up better. Drain and let it cool for a few minutes.

2: Season the Pasta

Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then sprinkle in parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If you like heat, toss in a pinch of chili flakes too.

Mix well to ensure every piece is well coated.

3: Air Fry Until Golden

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned pasta in a single layer in the air fryer basket—don’t overcrowd! Fry in batches if needed.

Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping.

4: Cool and Serve

Once the chips are golden brown and crispy, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly. They’ll crisp up even more as they cool.

Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dips.

Flavor Variations

Here’s where you can get creative! Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try out these flavor combos:

Cheesy Herb: Parmesan + rosemary + thyme
Spicy Kick: Paprika + cayenne + chili flakes
Zesty Lemon Pepper: Lemon zest + cracked black pepper
Garlic Butter Bliss: Melted butter + garlic powder + parsley

Tips for Perfect Pasta Chips

Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is best—anything softer may fall apart.
Dry your pasta before air frying: Excess moisture can make them soggy.
Don’t skip the oil: It helps the seasonings stick and gives that golden crunch.
Work in batches: Crowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking.

Storage and Reheating

Air Fryer Pasta Chips are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If they lose a bit of crunch, just pop them back into the air fryer for 2-3 minutes.

Serving Ideas

Air fryer Pasta chips with marinara and pesto dips on a platte

Movie night snack: Ditch the popcorn and serve pasta chips with a dipping trio.
Appetizer platter: Pair with fresh veggies, cheeses, and olives.
Lunchbox treat: A fun and crunchy surprise for the kids (or yourself).

From My Kitchen to Yours

There’s something magical about turning everyday pantry staples into something new and exciting. These Air Fryer Pasta Chips aren’t just a trend—they’re a snack-time revolution. I love how this recipe fuses my Italian roots with a fun, modern technique. And trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making batch after batch.

Now go ahead, grab that pasta, heat up the air fryer, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about making the perfect air fryer pasta chips? You’re not alone! Here are some common questions and expert answers to help you get the best results.

Can I Make Pasta Chips Without an Air Fryer?

Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake pasta chips in the oven.
How to do it: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned pasta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Downside: They may take longer and might not be as crispy as in an air fryer.

How Long Do Pasta Chips Stay Crispy?

If stored properly, pasta chips can stay crispy for up to 3 days.
Storage Tip: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Re-Crisping: Pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to bring back their crunch.

Are Pasta Chips Gluten-Free?

It depends on the pasta you use! Regular pasta contains gluten, but you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Best Gluten-Free Options: Chickpea pasta, lentil pasta, or brown rice pasta.

What’s the Best Oil to Use?

Olive oil is the best choice because it adds flavor and helps the pasta crisp up. But you can also use:
Avocado oil (high smoke point, great for air frying)
Coconut oil (adds a hint of sweetness)
Vegetable oil (neutral flavor)

Why You Should Try Air Fryer Pasta Chips Today

By now, you’re an expert on air fryer pasta chips! From learning how to make them to exploring flavor variations and fun serving ideas, you have all the tools to create a delicious and crunchy snack that everyone will love.

Whether you prefer classic cheesy chips, spicy versions, or even sweet cinnamon sugar pasta chips, there’s a version for every craving. And with so many dip options, the possibilities are endless!

So what are you waiting for? Grab some pasta, fire up your air fryer, and start making your own crispy, golden pasta chips today!

“The best snacks are the ones that surprise you. Pasta chips are a game-changer—simple, delicious, and totally addicting!”