Air Fryer Crispy Garlic Rigatoni Bites

These Air Fryer Crispy Garlic Rigatoni Bites are crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in buttery garlic and Parmesan. They’re a fun appetizer, snack, or side dish served with warm marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) rigatoni pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp melted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Cooking spray
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For Dipping

Warm marinara sauce
Garlic aioli
Ranch dressing
Spicy mayo (optional)

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente according to the package directions. Drain well and let cool for 5 minutes.
Prepare the coating: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked rigatoni and toss until evenly coated.
In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Toss the seasoned rigatoni in the breadcrumb mixture until each piece is well coated.
Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated rigatoni in a single layer, leaving a little space between the pieces.
Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the rigatoni is crispy and golden brown.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Optional Variations

Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Mix in 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning for bold flavor.
Use Panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy coating.
Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella during the last 2 minutes of cooking for cheesy rigatoni bites.

Serving Suggestions

Marinara sauce
Alfredo sauce
Garlic butter
Pesto
Caesar salad
Tomato soup

Tips

Cook the pasta just until al dente so it holds its shape in the air fryer.
Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed.
A light spray of oil helps the coating become evenly golden and crispy.
Serve immediately for the best crunch.

These Air Fryer Crispy Garlic Rigatoni Bites are a crispy, cheesy, and irresistible snack that’s perfect for parties, game days, or as a fun side dish everyone will love.