Parmesan Crisps
Crispy, savory, and irresistibly cheesy baked Parmesan crisps, also known as Frico. This one-ingredient wonder is the perfect low-carb snack, elegant salad topper, or crunchy garnish for soups. Ready in under 15 minutes!
For 4 servings
6 steps. 7 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
- a.Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy, non-stick removal.
- 2
Portion the cheese
- a.Drop heaping tablespoons of the shredded Parmesan onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced at least 2 inches apart to prevent them from melting into each other. This should yield about 16 small mounds.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Gently flatten each mound with the back of a spoon to create a thin, even circle about 2-3 inches in diameter. If using, sprinkle your optional seasonings like black pepper, garlic powder, or oregano over the cheese circles.
- 4
Bake for 5-7 minutes
- a.Watch them closely during the last 2 minutes. The crisps are ready when they are melted, bubbly, and have turned a light golden brown, especially around the edges.
- 5
Cool completely
- a.Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the crisps cool on the sheet for at least 5-10 minutes. They will harden and become crispy as they cool. Do not try to move them while they are hot and pliable.
- 6
Once fully cooled and rigid, carefully lift the crisps from the parchment paper
- a.Serve immediately for the best texture, or store them for later.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor and melting quality, always grate your own Parmesan from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can result in a greasy or less crispy texture.
- 2Do not use wax paper or aluminum foil, as the cheese will stick permanently. Parchment paper or a silicone mat is essential.
- 3Every oven varies. Keep a vigilant eye on the crisps as they can go from golden to burnt in under a minute.
- 4To create cheese cups for fillings, drape the hot, pliable crisps over the back of a mini muffin tin immediately after they come out of the oven. They will harden into a cup shape as they cool.
- 5Store any leftovers in a completely airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they lose crispness, you can briefly re-bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 1-2 minutes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb & Spice
Mix in other dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Seeded CrispsSeeded Crisps
Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning on top of the cheese mounds before baking for added texture and flavor.
Different CheesesDifferent Cheeses
While Parmesan is classic, you can experiment with other hard, aged cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or Grana Padano.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Parmesan cheese is packed with protein, which is essential for muscle repair, building tissues, and overall body function. A single serving provides a significant protein boost.
Rich in Calcium
As a dairy product, Parmesan is a great source of calcium, a vital mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as proper nerve and muscle function.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly
With virtually zero carbohydrates, these crisps are an ideal snack for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, providing a satisfying crunch without the carbs.
Frequently asked questions
In moderation, they can be a healthy snack. They are naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein and calcium. However, they are also high in sodium and saturated fat, so they should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.