Crispy Air Fryer Pasta Bites (Print Version)

Tender pasta shells become golden, crispy bites with herbs and smoky paprika using simple air frying techniques.

# What to Use:

→ Pasta

01 - 9 oz medium pasta shells (conchiglie)

→ Oil & Seasonings

02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
04 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
06 - 1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
07 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Optional for Serving

08 - 1 oz grated Parmesan cheese
09 - Fresh parsley, chopped
10 - Marinara sauce for dipping

# How to Prepare:

01 - Boil salted water in a large pot and cook 9 oz pasta shells according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta shells with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
03 - Set the air fryer to 400°F and preheat for 3 minutes.
04 - Place the seasoned pasta shells in a single, even layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
05 - Air fry the pasta shells for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they turn crispy and golden brown.
06 - Transfer the crispy pasta bites to a serving bowl. If desired, immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It rescues leftover pasta from boring reheats and turns it into something everyone fights over.
  • The crispy edges and tender centers give you that perfect salty crunch without deep frying.
  • You can season it a hundred different ways, so it never gets old.
02 -
  • Drying the pasta completely is the difference between crispy perfection and chewy disappointment.
  • Shaking the basket halfway through prevents uneven browning and ensures every shell gets its moment in the heat.
03 -
  • Preheat your air fryer every time, it makes a noticeable difference in how evenly the shells crisp up.
  • Taste one shell halfway through and adjust seasoning on the next batch, every air fryer runs a little differently.
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