These Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips are a crunchy and cheesy treat everyone will love! Made from cooked pasta and topped with your favorite cheese, they’re perfect for snacking.
Every bite brings a delightful crunch, and I can’t help but munch on them while watching my favorite shows. Who says chips have to be bland? These are fun and tasty!
What I love most is how easy they are to make. Just toss cooked pasta in cheese, bake until crispy, and you’ve got a snack ready in no time. Enjoy them warm for the best cheesy goodness!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using farfalle, as its shape holds cheese well. However, any small pasta like penne or rotini works beautifully too. Gluten-free pasta is a great alternative if you have dietary restrictions.
Cheeses: Mozzarella offers a stretchy texture, but feel free to mix it up! Cheddar or Monterey Jack can also bring a nice flavor. For dairy-free options, look for vegan cheese shreds that melt well.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice flavor boost. If you love fresh garlic, replace it with 1-2 minced cloves. Just remember, fresh garlic can burn more easily, so keep an eye on the baking time.
Olive Oil: This helps the pasta crisp up. Any neutral oil, like canola or avocado oil, can be a good substitute if olive oil isn’t on hand.
How Can I Get My Pasta Chips Extra Crispy?
The key to achieving that perfect crunch lies in the baking process and how you prepare the pasta. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to cook the pasta until just al dente; overcooked pasta will get mushy in the oven.
- Spreading the pasta in a single layer is crucial. This helps the hot air circulate, allowing each piece to bake evenly.
- Keep an eye on them while baking! Ovens vary, so check around the 12-minute mark. You’re looking for a golden-brown color.
Letting them cool for a few minutes after baking helps them crisp up even more before you enjoy them!
Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces pasta (farfalle or any small-shaped pasta)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara or pizza sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and crunchy recipe will take about 25 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for baking. Just remember to watch the chips closely as they bake to get that perfect golden crunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chips will get nice and crispy. While your oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Cook The Pasta:
Take a pot, fill it with water, and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and then the pasta. Cook until it’s just al dente, which means it’s still a little firm when you bite it (follow the package instructions for timing). Once done, drain the pasta and let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Mix And Coat:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss it well to ensure every piece is coated. Then, add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Toss again until the cheese is evenly distributed among the pasta.
4. Arrange For Baking:
Now, take the coated pasta and arrange it in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Be careful not to overcrowd them; it’s okay if they’re close together but they shouldn’t be piled on one another.
5. Bake Your Chips:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and crispy. The exact time may vary, so keep an eye on them!
6. Cool and Garnish:
After baking, carefully take the baking sheet out of the oven. Let the pasta chips cool for a couple of minutes—this will help them crisp up even more. Once cooled, sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley for a lovely touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your yummy pasta chips warm on a platter with marinara or pizza sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy these delicious cheesy bites with friends or during your next movie night!
Now you have a fun and tasty snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your crunchy, cheesy pasta chips!
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works great due to its shape, you can use any small pasta like penne, rotini, or cavatappi. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No worries! You can substitute olive oil with any neutral oil, such as canola, vegetable, or avocado oil. This will still help the pasta crisp up nicely in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta Chips?
Store any leftover pasta chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them crisp, avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make them soggy.
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add spices like Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes for heat, or even mix in cooked bacon bits. Just remember that the more you add, the more you’ll need to adjust the baking time to ensure everything crisps up nicely!
