Air fryer pasta chips are my new favorite way to satisfy a craving for something crunchy and flavorful. They’re simple to make, fun to eat, and way more exciting than regular chips. What makes them even better is the use of bowtie pasta. The ridges and unique shape of bowties aren’t just pretty; they hold on to seasonings so well that every bite bursts with flavor.
If you’ve been searching for a snack that feels homemade but doesn’t take hours to prepare, this is it. The air fryer transforms pasta into crispy chips without the need for deep frying. That means less mess, fewer calories, and way more crunch. You can customize them with whatever flavors you’re in the mood for, making this snack endlessly versatile.
Bowtie pasta really takes these chips up a notch! It’s sturdy enough to hold up in the air fryer, and its little creases grab onto oil and spices, giving you maximum flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, adding them to a snack board, or just munching solo while watching TV, air fryer pasta chips are always a good idea. You’ll wonder why you didn’t try these sooner.
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Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Pasta Chips
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or fancy equipment to make these pasta chips. You’ll just need:
- Bowtie pasta, about two cups. It’s the best shape for this recipe.
- Olive oil, two to three tablespoons.
- Garlic powder, paprika, and salt for the base seasonings.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, optional but highly recommended for extra flavor.
That’s it. No complicated or hard-to-find items here. Bowtie pasta is perfect because its ridges and folds give you more surface area for the seasonings to cling to, making every bite packed with flavor. Olive oil helps the seasonings stick while giving the pasta that irresistible crispiness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add chili flakes for heat, dried rosemary for an herby kick, or even lemon zest for brightness. The great thing about air fryer pasta chips is how customizable they are. Start with this base recipe, and you’ll quickly find your own favorite variations.
Gathering your ingredients beforehand is a small step that makes the whole process smoother. Once you have everything ready, you’re set to create a snack that’s both simple and unforgettable.
Preparing the Bowtie Pasta for Crispy Chips
The first step to making pasta chips is cooking the pasta. It may sound basic, but this step lays the foundation for crispy perfection. Cooking the pasta just right ensures it’s sturdy enough to crisp up in the air fryer.
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Salting the water is important because it adds flavor to the pasta itself. Once the water is boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook it until it’s just shy of al dente. You want the pasta to be firm enough to hold its shape but cooked enough that it doesn’t taste raw. Check the package instructions for timing, then reduce the cooking time by about a minute.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and spread it out on a clean surface to cool. This is where patience pays off. Letting the pasta cool and dry thoroughly is key to getting that crispy texture later. If the pasta is still wet when you toss it with oil and seasonings, it won’t crisp up properly in the air fryer. You can speed things up by patting the pasta dry with paper towels.
This step may seem tiny, but it really matters! Dry, slightly firm bowtie pasta is the perfect canvas for turning into crunchy, flavorful chips. Now it’s time to add the seasoning.
Seasoning the Pasta for Maximum Flavor
Seasoning the pasta is where this snack truly comes to life. The ridges of bowtie pasta make it the perfect shape for holding onto all the spices, so don’t hold back. A well-seasoned batch of pasta chips is what turns a simple recipe into a crowd-pleaser.
Start by placing your cooled, dry pasta in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the pasta and toss it gently until each piece is evenly coated. The olive oil not only helps the seasonings stick but also contributes to the crispiness when the pasta is air-fried.
Once the pasta is coated in oil, it’s time to add the spices. Start with garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt for a classic flavor. If you’re a fan of cheesy snacks, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan. For an extra kick, add chili flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper. Toss everything together, making sure every piece of pasta is covered in the flavorful mix.
One of the best things about this step is how flexible it is. If you’re in the mood for something herby, try Italian seasoning or dried basil. Want a smoky flavor? Add a little smoked paprika. The possibilities are endless, and bowtie pasta’s ridges hold onto the spices so well that every bite feels perfectly seasoned.
Take a moment to look at your seasoned pasta. If it looks evenly coated and full of flavor, you’re ready for the next step: air frying.
How to Cook Pasta Chips in the Air Fryer
The air fryer is what makes this recipe so simple and effective. It takes your seasoned pasta and turns it into crispy, golden chips in a matter of minutes. There’s no need for deep frying, and the results are just as satisfying.
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. Preheating ensures the pasta starts cooking as soon as it hits the basket, giving you a consistent crunch. While the air fryer is heating, arrange the seasoned pasta in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding; if the pasta is piled on top of itself, it won’t cook evenly. If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to cook in multiple rounds.
Set the air fryer to cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This helps the pasta crisp up on all sides. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent overcooking. Bowtie pasta can go from golden brown to burnt quickly, so it’s worth checking as it finishes.
When the chips are done, take them out and let them cool for a minute or two. They’ll crisp up even more as they sit. If you’re making multiple batches, place the finished chips on a wire rack to keep them from getting soggy.
Air fryer pasta chips are best enjoyed fresh, but they store well if you have leftovers. Just pop them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay crispy for a day or two.
Air Fryer Pasta Chips
Ingredients
- 2 cups bowtie pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Cook 2 cups of bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until just shy of al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and let it cool completely, patting dry with a clean towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Place the cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, tossing until evenly coated.
- Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl.
- Toss the pasta gently until all the seasonings are evenly distributed across the bowtie pieces.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 2-3 minutes.
- Place the seasoned pasta in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping.
- Remove the pasta chips from the air fryer once golden and crispy, letting them cool for 1-2 minutes to firm up further.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dips, such as marinara sauce, ranch, or pesto.
Serving and Enjoying Your Air Fryer Pasta Chips
Air fryer pasta chips are more than just a snack—they’re a fun, versatile addition to your snack rotation. Serve them on their own, pair them with dips, or get creative with how you enjoy them. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Dip them in marinara sauce for a snack that feels like crispy pasta with tomato sauce. Ranch dressing or garlic aioli also make excellent options if you’re in the mood for something creamy. For an herby twist, try pairing the chips with pesto.
If you’re hosting guests, these chips are a fun addition to any snack board. Arrange them with cheese, crackers, and fresh veggies for a spread that’s sure to impress. You can even use pasta chips as a crunchy topping for soups or salads. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always delicious.
Air fryer pasta chips are crispy, flavorful, and easy to customize. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a go-to snack.
