Golden-baked pasta chips topped with cheddar, mozzarella, tomato, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, avocado, and a zesty lime drizzle.
# What You'll Need:
→ 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
# How to Make It:
01 - Heat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente, about two minutes less than package directions. Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
03 - Combine pasta with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
04 - Spread pasta in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden. Let cool for five minutes.
05 - Whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
06 - Arrange half the baked pasta chips on an oven-safe platter, sprinkle with half the shredded cheese, then add remaining pasta and top with remaining cheese.
07 - Place layered tray back in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
08 - Garnish with diced tomato, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and avocado, then drizzle evenly with the zesty sauce. Serve immediately.
