Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips are a fun and crispy snack that’s super easy to make! Just cook your favorite pasta, sprinkle on cheese, and bake until golden and crunchy.
These little bites are perfect for munching while binge-watching your favorite show. I can never stop at just one — they’re so cheesy and delicious! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used farfalle because its shape holds the toppings well. If you don’t have it, any short pasta like penne or elbow macaroni works great too!
Cheese: Mozzarella is melty and gooey. Combining it with Parmesan adds a nice flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try vegan cheese alternatives for similar results.
Olive Oil: This helps the pasta crisp up but you can use any vegetable oil you like. If you want a hint of flavor, avocado oil is a good choice too.
Seasoning: Garlic powder adds delicious flavor, but if you’re out, minced fresh garlic or onion powder can work. Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky touch, but it’s optional. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices!
How Do I Get My Pasta Chips Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, start by making sure your pasta is completely dry after boiling. Any moisture can cause them to steam instead of crisp up. Pat them down with paper towels for the best result!
- Spread the pasta in a single layer on your baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t too close together.
- Baking them at a high temperature helps achieve that crispy texture, but check on them towards the end to prevent burning.
- Letting them cool slightly after baking makes them extra crunchy. Give them a few minutes before you dig in!
Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara or pizza sauce, for dipping
Time Needed:
This delicious snack takes about 20 minutes in total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 12-15 minutes baking them in the oven. Perfect for a quick treat or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your farfalle pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and then use paper towels to pat it dry, removing any excess moisture.
3. Season the Pasta:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and sprinkle with salt and pepper to your liking. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the seasoned pasta in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the pasta pieces are not overlapping; giving them space will help them crisp up nicely!
5. Add the Cheese:
Now sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta. This will give them that cheesy goodness as they bake.
6. Bake the Chips:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time, so they don’t burn. You want them to be golden brown and crispy!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re done baking, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This helps them crisp up even more. After cooling, transfer them to a serving plate and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bit of color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips warm with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delightful snack with friends or family!
They’re perfect for snacking or sharing at a party! Enjoy your crispy, cheesy pasta chips!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works great, you can use any small pasta like penne, rotini, or even rigatoni. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best crunch!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or chickpeas. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and proceed as usual with the recipe!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pasta Chips?
Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore some crunch.
Can I Add More Seasonings or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings—Italian herbs, chili flakes, or even ranch seasoning can add extra flavor. You can also mix in cooked, crumbled bacon or diced veggies for added texture!
