Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips are a fun twist on snacking! Made with leftover pasta, cheese, and spices, these crispy chips are super easy to whip up. Yum!
I love making these on movie night. They’re golden and cheesy — the perfect crunchy treat! Plus, who doesn’t love sneaking in a little pasta into their snack time? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Pasta: I love using farfalle for its shape, which holds up well during baking. You can also use any leftover pasta you have on hand like penne or fusilli. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy!
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that lovely stretchy cheese effect. If you want a kick, try pepper jack or a blend of different cheeses for more flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan enhances the savory taste. If you’re out, use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning add great flavor! Feel free to swap Italian seasoning with your favorite herbs like oregano or basil, or add a pinch of cayenne for some heat!
How Do I Get My Pasta Chips Crispy?
Making crispy pasta chips is all about the right baking technique. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Preheat your oven well; this helps with even cooking. A hot oven helps the moisture escape quickly, resulting in crispiness.
- Spread the pasta out in a single layer with enough space between clusters. This ensures they don’t steam but bake nicely.
- Check on them frequently during the last minutes of baking to avoid burning. Different ovens can have slight variations.
- Letting them cool after baking helps them crisp up more. Don’t skip this step!
Enjoy crafting these delightful chips! They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. 😄
How to Make Oven Baked Cheesy Pasta Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) cooked pasta (preferably farfalle or similar shape)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and tasty snack will take approximately 10 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be enjoying your crunchy pasta chips in just about 25 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to ensure your chips cook evenly and become nice and crispy. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked pasta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently stir the mixture until all the pasta is well coated with cheese and seasonings.
3. Spread Out the Pasta Clusters:
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop small clusters of the cheesy pasta mixture and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Try to keep each piece somewhat flat and in clusters that are about 2 inches in diameter. Make sure to leave enough space between each cluster so that they can bake evenly.
4. Bake Until Crispy:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid burning. You want them to be golden and crispy on the edges!
5. Cool and Crisp Up:
Once baked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the chips to cool on the sheet for 3-5 minutes. This will help them firm up and get even crispier!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your tasty chips to a serving plate. If you like, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and some fresh herbs on top for added flavor and color. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy these delicious, cheesy pasta chips as a unique snack or appetizer!
Happy snacking! 😊
Can I Use Any Type of Cooked Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works great, you can use any leftover pasta shape you have, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente to get the best crunch!
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
If you’re out of mozzarella, feel free to use any shredded cheese you have on hand, like cheddar or a cheese blend. For a spicier kick, consider using pepper jack cheese!
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta Chips?
Store any leftover pasta chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They tend to lose their crunch in the fridge, so it’s best to keep them out. To re-crisp them, pop them back in a warm oven for a few minutes!
Can I Make These Chips Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make these chips dairy-free, substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can be a great addition for flavor. Just adjust the quantity to your liking!
