These oven-baked cheesy pasta chips are a fun snack! They are crispy, cheesy, and super easy to whip up. Perfect for munching while you relax or watch a movie!
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? They pair perfectly with your favorite dip, too! I can never eat just one handful—they’re that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I chose farfalle for its fun shape and texture. However, you can use any small pasta like penne, rotini, or even shells! If you’re gluten-free, just opt for a gluten-free pasta to keep it safe for everyone.
Cheese: Mozzarella provides that stretchy, gooey texture. You can mix it up with cheddar for a sharper flavor or even use vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Seasonings: Dried Italian seasoning works well, but feel free to swap it with your favorite herbs! Oregano or even a bit of red pepper flakes can add a nice twist. Always adjust the garlic powder based on your taste—less if you’re not huge on garlic!
Olive Oil: This helps the pasta cook evenly and adds flavor. If you want to cut down on fat, use a cooking spray or a light mist of oil instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Chips Are Perfectly Crispy?
The secret to those crispy pasta chips lies in the preparation and oven technique. First, it’s crucial to dry the pasta well after cooking. Extra moisture can make them soggy instead of crispy. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- After rinsing the pasta with cold water, make sure to pat it dry thoroughly. Lay it on a towel and let it rest while you prepare the cheese and seasonings.
- When mixing the pasta with the cheese and seasonings, make sure every piece is coated, but avoid clumping. Spread them evenly on the baking sheet for best results.
- Watch the baking closely! Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on them—once they’re golden and crispy, they’re ready to come out. A little extra time can lead to burning.
Allow them to cool for a few minutes straight out of the oven, which helps them firm up nicely. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Chips:
- 8 ounces (about 3 cups) uncooked farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
For Dipping:
- Marinara or pizza sauce, for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and delicious snack takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 15 minutes to bake, making it a quick and satisfying treat. Add some time for cooling afterward, and you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chips will bake evenly and get nice and crispy. While the oven heats, lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook until al dente, which should take about 8-10 minutes. The goal is to ensure it holds its shape. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Then, pat it dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel or paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the dried pasta and drizzle it with olive oil. Toss gently to coat each piece. Next, add the mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper if using. Stir carefully to ensure every piece is evenly covered with cheese and seasonings.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Spread the pasta mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure the pieces are not overlapping too much, as this helps achieve that important crispiness.
5. Bake the Chips:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta chips have turned golden brown and crispy along the edges. Keep a close eye on them near the end to prevent burning.
6. Cool and Serve:
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pasta chips cool slightly for a couple of minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Once slightly cooled, transfer them to a serving bowl or plate and sprinkle with extra Parmesan or seasoning if desired.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your tasty crunchy pasta chips warm and alongside marinara or pizza sauce for dipping! They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute gluten-free pasta for the farfalle. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure it cooks perfectly. It’s a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities!
How Can I Store Leftover Pasta Chips?
Store any leftover pasta chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make them soggy. If they lose their crunch, you can re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes!
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like paprika, chili powder, or even a sprinkle of ranch seasoning. Adding toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or olives can give them a unique twist—just remember to adjust baking time if necessary, as added moisture can affect crispiness.
Are There Any Dipping Sauce Recommendations?
Marinara and pizza sauce are classic choices, but you can try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy salsa for some extra flavor. Feel free to get creative according to your tastes!
