Get ready for a crunchy treat with these Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips! Made with cooked pasta and covered in cheese, they’re baked until perfectly crispy.
These chips make a fun snack for movie nights or anytime you want something cheesy. I love to dip them in marinara sauce—it’s like pizza in a chip form! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using ruffled or ridged pasta like campanelle or farfalle for the best crunch. If you can’t find these shapes, penne or rotini can work too! Just make sure they are cooked al dente for the perfect chip.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a nice flavor, but I personally love a blend of cheddar and mozzarella. This combination adds extra stretch and gooeyness! If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based cheese substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: The grated Parmesan adds a crispy texture as it bakes. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the milk!
Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika: These spices offer great flavor. If you prefer fresh, minced garlic can be used, but reduce the amount accordingly. Skip the smoked paprika if you’re not a fan of a smoky taste.
How Do I Get My Pasta Chips Extra Crispy?
The key to achieving the perfect crunchy pasta chips lies in the cooking and baking method. Here’s how to make sure they turn out crispy:
- Cook the pasta al dente—this means it should still have a little bite to it. Overcooked pasta will lead to mushy chips.
- Drain the pasta well and let it cool for a few minutes to allow steam to escape. This helps prevent sogginess.
- Spread the pasta into a single layer on your baking sheet. Overlapping pieces will end up soft, so give them space!
- Keep an eye on them while baking. Depending on your oven, they might need a bit more or less time, so adjust as needed to achieve that golden brown color.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes after baking to allow them to firm up even more.
Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chips:
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) dried pasta (ruffled or ridged shapes like campanelle, mafaldine, or farfalle)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for extra stretch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried parsley flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing
- Marinara sauce or ranch dressing, for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack will take about 30 minutes in total. It includes around 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes of baking time. Perfect for a quick and easy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important for getting those crispy chips! Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will crisp up in the oven!
3. Drain and Cool:
After the pasta is cooked, drain it well. Spread the pasta on the lined baking sheet and let it cool slightly. This helps any excess moisture evaporate, which is key for crispy chips.
4. Toss with Cheese and Seasonings:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything gently until the pasta is evenly coated with cheese and spices.
5. Spread on Baking Sheet:
Spread the cheesy pasta in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the pieces aren’t overlapping too much, which helps them crisp up nicely.
6. Add Parmesan:
Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta. This will create a crispy, cheesy crust as it bakes.
7. Bake Until Crispy:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
8. Cool Down:
Once they are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow the pasta chips to cool for a few minutes. This will help them firm up and become extra crispy!
9. Final Touch:
If you like, sprinkle some extra Italian seasoning or chopped fresh parsley over the chips for added flavor and color.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These oven-baked cheesy pasta chips are best served warm. Grab your favorite marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping and enjoy your tasty snack!
Happy snacking!
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of pasta, but choose shapes that will hold up well and allow for maximum crunch, like campanelle, mafaldine, or farfalle. Just ensure they are cooked al dente for the best results!
How Can I Store Leftover Pasta Chips?
Store any leftover pasta chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can lose their crunch if stored in the fridge, so it’s best to keep them out. If they soften, you can pop them back in a warm oven for a few minutes to re-crisp them!
What Can I Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
If you don’t have cheddar cheese, you can use mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Just keep in mind that different cheeses can alter the flavor and texture slightly, so choose one that complements your taste.
Can I Make These Spicy?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your heat preference!
