Easy Homemade Parmesan Crisps
Sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying, and these Parmesan Crisps are proof. They’re crunchy, salty, and perfectly golden—just the kind of snack or topping that feels gourmet without requiring much effort at all. I love sprinkling them over soups and salads, or honestly, just snacking on them straight from the cooling rack while they’re still warm.
The best part? You only need one ingredient: freshly grated Parmesan. That’s it. In under 10 minutes, you’ll have the most addictive little crisps that taste like something from a fancy bistro but came straight from your oven.
Parmesan Crisps
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Equipment
- Microplane or box grater
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Tablespoon measure
- Thin spatula
Ingredients
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Spoon 1 tbsp Parmesan onto sheet, spread into thin circles (about 2½ inches wide)
- Bake for 5–7 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Cool for 2–3 minutes, transfer to cooling rack
- Serve immediately or store airtight for up to 2 days
More About This Recipe
Kitchen Tools You’ll Want
- Microplane or box grater – For freshly grating your Parmesan (pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as well).
- Baking sheet – Lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Tablespoon measure – To keep the crisps even in size.
- Thin spatula – For transferring crisps off the baking sheet without breaking them.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh Parmesan – Skip the pre-shredded cheese; it contains anti-caking agents that prevent the crisps from melting properly.
- Spread thin – When spooning out the cheese, spread it into thin, even circles for maximum crispiness.
- Watch closely – Parmesan crisps can go from golden to burnt quickly. Check them around the 5-minute mark.
- Add a twist – Mix in black pepper, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds before baking for extra flavor.
Nutrition
Health Benefits
While Parmesan crisps may feel indulgent, they also bring a few surprising benefits to the table:
- High in Protein & Calcium – Parmesan is rich in protein and one of the best natural sources of calcium, both of which support strong bones and muscles—especially important for women over 50.
- Naturally Low in Lactose – Aged cheeses like Parmesan contain very little lactose, making them easier to digest for most people with lactose sensitivity.
- Rich in Flavor, Lower in Calories – Because Parmesan has such a bold, salty flavor, a little goes a long way. You get all that savory satisfaction without needing large portions.
Final Thoughts
I think of these Parmesan crisps as a little kitchen magic trick: one ingredient, five minutes, and you’ve got something that looks and tastes like it came from a chef’s kitchen. Whether you’re entertaining guests, adding crunch to a salad, or just craving something savory in the afternoon, these crisps deliver every time.
They’re also one of those recipes that remind me how joyful simple cooking can be—you don’t always need a long ingredient list to create something beautiful. Try them once, and I promise, you’ll be making them on repeat.