Save Crispy, golden pasta chips tossed with zesty lemon, Parmesan, and a kick of chili, perfect for snacking or entertaining.
I first made these for a family gathering and they were gone within minutes everyone loved the crunchy texture and bold flavors.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 250 g (about 9 oz) rigatoni or penne pasta 1½ liters (6 cups) water 1 tsp salt
- Coating: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste) 1 tsp garlic powder ½ tsp smoked paprika Zest of 1 lemon ½ tsp black pepper 80 g (¾ cup) grated Parmesan cheese 1 tsp sea salt
- Garnish: Extra grated Parmesan Fresh parsley chopped Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) or set air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
- Step 2:
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot Add salt and pasta Cook until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions) Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Step 3:
- In a mixing bowl toss cooked pasta with olive oil chili flakes garlic powder smoked paprika lemon zest black pepper and 60 g (½ cup) Parmesan Season with sea salt.
- Step 4:
- Arrange pasta in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in the air fryer basket Do not overcrowd.
- Step 5:
- Bake for 18–22 minutes (oven) or air fry for 10–12 minutes shaking halfway until golden and crisp.
- Step 6:
- Immediately sprinkle with remaining Parmesan Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.
Save Making these pasta chips has become a fun weekend activity our kids love helping with the tossing and seasoning.
Required Tools
Large pot Colander Mixing bowl Baking sheet or air fryer Parchment paper (if baking) Grater or zester
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) Milk (Parmesan cheese) Check Parmesan label for animal rennet if vegetarian Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 270 Total Fat 10 g Carbohydrates 34 g Protein 11 g per serving
Save These chips are best enjoyed fresh and crispy but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the pasta chips get crispy?
Drain and dry the pasta thoroughly before tossing with the seasoning to remove excess moisture. Spread them in a single layer to allow even crisping during baking or air frying.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of chili flakes according to your preferred heat level.
- → What types of pasta work best?
Short tubular pasta like rigatoni or penne hold the coating well and crisp nicely.
- → Are there suitable variations to Parmesan?
Pecorino or vegan Parmesan alternatives can be used to vary the flavor while maintaining the cheesy profile.
- → How should I serve the pasta chips?
Serve them garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing. They pair well with dips like marinara sauce or herbed yogurt.