Insanely Easy Parmesan Crisps

These parmesan crisps require just one single ingredient and are ready in 5 minutes. They make the perfect crunchy topping to salads and soups.

Salads are great and all but for it to be considered a meal, I need at least one component I’m excited about, something that makes me look forward to each bite that includes that ingredient.

Goat cheese sometimes does the trick, other times it’s something crunchy like pistachios or sweet like dried cherries but lately, these parmesan crisps have been a fun and original take on the cheese component to a salad.

They’re just two ingredients and take only five minutes.

When popped into a 400°F oven, they come out bubbly but then cool to a “crisp-like” consistency in a matter of minutes. They remind me of a savory cheese version of an Italian pizelle cookie.

Deliciously salty, easily herb infused if you want them to be and perfect for topping a salad or serving alongside it. 

While I mainly use them in a salad, they’re also equally as good in a pasta dish or served with soup. Can you think of a better pairing than with this creamy roasted tomato soup instead of croutons?

Every time I make them I always wish I had made more but with a total prep and cook time of just seven minutes, I’m pretty sure I can afford the time to make them again.

What Are Parmesan Crisps?

Parmesan crisps are a delightful and thin wafer-like chip made solely from parmesan cheese, with a crispy texture and rich, salty flavor. They serve as an ideal addition to salads, a savory snack, a crunchy sandwich topping, or the perfect garnish for pasta dishes. 

Cheese lovers will adore this easy recipe and if you’re serving a crowd, you’ll look fancy as heck with these in the mix.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crunchy and satisfying snack: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of these crisps as a standalone snack or as a topping for your favorite dishes.

Keto-friendly and low-carb snack: Perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet, these parmesan crisps are a guilt-free indulgence that won’t derail your dietary goals.

Flavor-packed: You can easily infuse any freshly minced herb or spice into the parmesan crisps to match the flavors of the meal you’re serving them with. I’m partial to rosemary, sage and oregano.

Ingredient Notes

Grated parmesan cheese: Provides the base for the crispy texture and rich, salty flavor of the crisps.

Optional Add-ons

Shredded cheese: You can experiment with different types of shredded cheese to create a unique flavor profile for your crisps, such as cheddar cheese for a sharper taste. Alternatively, use Pecorino Romano for a sheep’s milk cheese option that still tastes very similar to parmesan.

Garlic powder: For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding garlic powder to the cheese mixture before baking.

Everything bagel seasoning: Sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning over the crisps before baking to add a savory, herbaceous crunch.

Herbs: Try incorporating your favorite fresh herbs to bring additional flavor to the cheese crisps.

Paprika and other spices: A pinch of paprika can add a subtle smoky flavor to the crisps which not only tastes great, but can turn them a lovely shade of red.

How to Make Homemade Parmesan Crisps

Here’s how to make delicious homemade parmesan crisps at home: 

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a silpat.

In a small bowl, mix 3/4 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of minced herbs (if using).

Using a spoon, or your hands, form the cheese mixture into 2-inch diameter piles on the prepared sheet pan. Make sure to leave enough space between each pile to allow for spreading during baking.

Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake the crisps for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the crisps cool for a minute to crisp up. Then, carefully remove them from the pan using a metal spatula.

If desired, you can make multiple batches of these crisps by repeating the process with the remaining cheese mixture

Once cooled and crisp, these crunchy parmesan chips are ready to garnish your salads, soups, or any dish of your choice. Simply sprinkle them over your favorite meals for a flavorful and crunchy addition.

What to Serve with Parmesan Cheese Crisps

Parmesan cheese crisps are a versatile addition to any meal, and they pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few delicious ideas for serving them:

Charcuterie Board: Arrange the parmesan crisps alongside an assortment of cured meats, flavorful cheeses, and an array of fresh fruits and nuts for a charcuterie board spread.

Marinara Dip: Serve the parmesan crisps with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of the crispy, salty crisps and the rich, tangy marinara creates a delicious contrast of flavors and textures. They also pair well with roasted red pepper dip.

Salad Topping: Sprinkle the parmesan crisps over a fresh, vibrant salad to add a flavorful and crunchy element.

Cracker Replacement: Use the parmesan crisps as a creative and low-carb alternative to traditional crackers. 

Are parmesan crisps good for you?

They’re just cheese so parmesan crisps can be a great option for those looking for gluten-free snacks that are also low-carb and higher in protein.

How should you store parmesan cheese chips?

To store your parmesan crisps, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. Consider using a silicone container for added protection. This will help maintain their crispy texture and flavor for an extended period. 

Can you freeze parmesan crisps?

I don’t recommend freezing the crisps as they may lose their crunchy texture and become soggy when thawed. It’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture and flavor.

More ways to use these crunchy crisps

Serve alongside a bowl of escarole soup for the ultimate Italian experience.

Crumble on top a cup of Italian tomato pasta soup to complement the savory flavors in each spoonful.

Enjoy with breakfast or brunch with this easy spinach frittata recipe.

Add a double dose of crispiness to this peach and radish salad alongside the crunchy prosciutto pieces.