Golden baked pasta chips layered with cheese, fresh toppings, and zesty sauce for a tasty appetizer.
# Components:
→ Pasta Chips
01 - 9 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
04 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 tsp salt
06 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Cheese & Toppings
07 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
08 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 1 medium tomato, diced
10 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped
11 - 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
12 - 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
13 - 1 small avocado, diced
→ Zesty Sauce
14 - 1/2 cup sour cream
15 - 2 tbsp mayonnaise
16 - Juice of 1/2 lime
17 - 1/2 tsp chili powder
18 - Salt and pepper, to taste
# Directions:
01 - Set the oven temperature to 425°F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
02 - Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.
03 - Combine cooked pasta with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, tossing until evenly coated.
04 - Arrange pasta in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning halfway through, until crisp and golden. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.
05 - Whisk sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
06 - Layer half the baked pasta chips on an oven-safe platter or skillet, sprinkle with half the cheeses. Top with remaining chips and cheese.
07 - Return the assembled dish to the oven for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
08 - Distribute diced tomato, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and avocado over the melted cheese layers. Drizzle with the prepared zesty sauce and serve immediately.
