Save It The first time I served these at a dinner party, my friend took one bite and absolutely refused to believe they were pasta. The crunchiness is unreal, like nothing you expect from noodles, and watching everyone crowd around the platter, reaching for that perfect cheese-covered chip, reminded me why fun food matters.
I made these on a rainy Tuesday when I was craving nachos but had no chips in the pantry. The rigatoni in my cabinet caught my eye, and what started as kitchen curiosity ended up being the most requested snack at every gathering since.
Ingredients
- 250 g (9 oz) rigatoni or penne pasta: Tubes or ridged shapes catch seasoning and hold toppings perfectly
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps spices stick and promotes even crisping
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Layers savory depth without burning like fresh garlic might
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds earthy heat and gorgeous golden color
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Provides subtle warmth that balances the cheese
- 120 g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp, melty, and full of flavor
- 60 g (1/2 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that perfect cheese pull
- 1 medium tomato, diced: Fresh brightness cuts through the richness
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped: Adds color and mild bite
- 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced: Optional heat for those who like it spicy
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped: Brings herbal freshness and pop
- 1 small avocado, diced: Creamy contrast to all the crunch
- 100 g (1/2 cup) sour cream: Tangy base for the zesty sauce
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise: Richness that balances the lime
- Juice of 1/2 lime: Bright acid that wakes up every bite
- 1/2 tsp chili powder: Gentle warmth and color
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Final seasoning adjustment
Instructions
- Preheat your oven:
- Heat to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil in salted water until just al dente, about 2 minutes less than package directions, then drain and pat completely dry with a clean towel
- Season the pasta:
- Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until every piece is evenly coated
- Bake until crisp:
- Spread in a single layer on the prepared sheet and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway, until deeply golden and crunchy all over
- Whisk the sauce:
- Stir together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth, then set aside
- Build the layers:
- On an oven-safe platter or skillet, arrange half the pasta chips, sprinkle with half the cheeses, then repeat with remaining chips and cheese
- Melt the cheese:
- Return to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown
- Top and serve:
- Pile on tomato, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and avocado, drizzle with sauce, and enjoy immediately
Save It My roommate walked in while these were baking and asked what smelled so incredible. That spice blend hitting the hot olive oil creates this aroma that fills the whole house, and now whenever I smell smoked paprika, I think of friends gathered around the counter, double-fisting pasta chips.
Make Them Your Way
Once you master the basic pasta chip, the toppings are completely up to you. Sometimes I use pepper jack instead of cheddar, add black beans for protein, or swap jalapeños for pickled jalapeños when I want extra tang. The beauty is in making it match what you are craving.
Air Fryer Magic
When I am short on time or just want to avoid heating the whole oven, the air fryer delivers even better crunch. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, and you will get the most impossibly crispy chips with less effort.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
These work as a game day snack, party appetizer, or even a fun dinner when paired with a simple green salad. I have served them alongside tacos, as part of a spread with wings, and just on their own with drinks. Scale up easily for crowds because they disappear fast.
- Set up a toppings bar and let guests build their own
- Keep the sauce separate until serving to prevent sogginess
- Make extra pasta chips because people will snack on them plain
Save It These have become my go-to whenever I want to serve something that makes people smile. Hope they bring the same joy to your table.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make pasta chips extra crispy?
Pat the cooked pasta dry and bake at a high temperature, flipping halfway through. For extra crunch, try air-frying at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes.
- → Can I prepare the zesty sauce in advance?
Yes, the creamy lime and chili sauce can be mixed ahead and stored refrigerated for up to two days to enhance flavors.
- → What cheeses work best for melting on pasta chips?
Cheddar and mozzarella provide great meltability and flavor balance, offering gooey texture and mild creaminess.
- → Are there vegetarian-friendly alternatives for toppings?
Fresh vegetables like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, and avocado add vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for a vegetarian option.
- → How can I adapt this dish for a vegan diet?
Use dairy-free cheese along with vegan mayonnaise and sour cream substitutes to maintain creamy and cheesy elements.