Crunchy Taco Pasta Snack Mix

Name: Crunchy Taco Pasta Snack Mix
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups uncooked elbow pasta; 1 cup mixed nuts (like almonds, peanuts, and cashews); 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Crunchy Taco Pasta Snack Mix for game nights and parties. It's a delightful medley of textures and flavors that always gets rave reviews from friends and family. The combination of crunchy pasta, bold taco seasoning, and assorted nuts creates a savory snack that's both satisfying and addictive. Whether you're serving it as an appetizer or packing it for lunch, this mix is sure to bring a smile to everyone's face. It's easy to whip up and perfect for sharing, making it a go-to recipe in my collection.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:35:28.638Z

When I first tried making this Crunchy Taco Pasta Snack Mix, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The magic happens when the pasta crisps up perfectly in the oven, adding a unique crunch that you just can’t find in traditional taco snacks. I love using a mix of seasoning to get that authentic taco flavor, and it clings beautifully to the pasta, giving each bite an explosion of taste.

Over the years, I’ve played around with different nuts and seeds, finding that adding sunflower seeds really enhances the texture. The great thing about this recipe is its adaptability; you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own. It’s been a hit at every gathering I’ve taken it to, and each time, I see friends reaching for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful crunch combined with savory taco flavor.
Perfectly adaptable to suit any taste or preference.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for gatherings.

Creating the Perfect Crunch

To achieve that perfect crunch in your Crunchy Taco Pasta Snack Mix, it's essential not to overcook the pasta. Cook it just until al dente since it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. An important tip is to toss the pasta in olive oil immediately after draining; this helps to create a barrier that prevents sticking and promotes even crispiness during baking.

Using a mix of nuts adds not only flavor but also varied textures to your snack mix. You can experiment with different types of nuts to find your favorite combination. For instance, walnuts or pecans can lend a richer taste, while sunflower seeds offer a delightful crunch. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can substitute the nuts with seeds, like pumpkin seeds, or even toasted chickpeas for added crunch.

Flavor Balancing with Seasonings

The key to a delicious taco flavor in this snack mix lies in the taco seasoning. Feel free to customize this mix by adding your favorite spices like smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat. It’s a great opportunity to adjust the flavors to your preference; just be mindful that a little goes a long way, especially with stronger spices.

Garlic and onion powder contribute to the overall flavor profile, enhancing the savory aspect of the mix. If you’re sensitive to these ingredients, consider using fresh garlic or onion for a more subtle taste. Simply sauté them in olive oil before mixing into the pasta, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully before baking.

Ingredients

For the Crunchy Taco Mix

2 cups uncooked elbow pasta
1 cup mixed nuts (like almonds, peanuts, and cashews)
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste

Mix well and enjoy!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil the elbow pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, mixed nuts, taco seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes or until the pasta is crispy, stirring halfway through.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a crunchy snack!

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to one week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite spices or even some cheese for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Crunchy Taco Pasta Snack Mix makes for an excellent party snack but can also be served in creative ways at home. Consider using it as a topping for salads, adding a delightful crunch along with an unexpected flavor boost. Additionally, it can be a fun filling for tacos or wraps when you want a unique twist on the traditional.

For a themed game night, pair this mix with salsa and guacamole, turning snacking into a festive experience. Present it in a large bowl with small scoops for serving, allowing guests to help themselves. You can also portion it into smaller bags for easy grab-and-go snacks during busy weekdays.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this snack mix in advance, it’s best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This will ensure maximum crunchiness for up to a week. If you notice any softening, a quick refresh in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes can restore its crispiness.

For large gatherings, consider scaling the recipe up easily by doubling or tripling the ingredients; just ensure that you have a large enough baking sheet for even cooking. Each batch should be baked separately for optimal texture, as overcrowding can prevent the mix from crisping up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, any gluten-free pasta will work perfectly in this recipe.

→ How long can I store this snack mix?

It can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.

→ Can I add more ingredients to the mix?

Absolutely! You can include seeds, dried fruits, or even cheese for variety.

→ Is this snack mix vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant-based nuts and oils.