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Crispy Parmesan Cheese Chips: A Chef’s Savory Delight

The aroma of Parmesan, garlic, and basil mingling in the oven brings me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She would always have a little snack ready for us grandkids, and these crispy Parmesan chips were a constant favorite. There’s something so satisfying about the simple combination of flavors and that perfect crunch. I’ve elevated that memory into a quick and easy snack or appetizer perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yields: 60 chips
Serves: 15
Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

30 wonton wrappers
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon dried basil, crushed
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese or ¼ cup grated Romano cheese

Equipment Needed

Sharp knife or pizza cutter
Baking sheet
Small bowl
Pastry brush
Wire rack

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut each of the wonton wrappers diagonally in half to create triangles. These triangles will be the base of your crispy chips.
Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange approximately one-third of the wonton triangles in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping. Spacing is key for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Optional for ruffled chips: Line the baking sheet with foil. Then, shape the foil to create ridges or small hills. Lightly coat the foil with cooking spray. Carefully place the wonton triangles on the foil, draping them over the foil ridges. This will create a unique ruffled texture.
In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, minced garlic, and crushed dried basil until well combined. This fragrant oil mixture will infuse the chips with flavor.
Lightly brush one-third of the wonton triangles with one-third of the prepared oil mixture, ensuring each chip is evenly coated.
Sprinkle the brushed wonton triangles with one-third of the grated Parmesan cheese or Romano cheese. Don’t be shy with the cheese; it’s what gives the chips their signature salty, savory flavor.
Bake in the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for approximately 8 minutes, or until the chips are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly. Oven temperatures can vary, so adjust the baking time as needed.
Cool the baked chips completely on a wire rack. This allows the chips to fully crisp up.
Repeat steps 4-10 with the remaining wonton triangles, oil mixture, and cheese until all ingredients are used.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For a more intense garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of minced raw garlic.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; bake in batches for even cooking.
If you don’t have a pastry brush, you can drizzle the oil mixture over the wonton triangles and then use your fingers or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.
For extra crispy chips, bake them on the lower rack of the oven.
To prevent the chips from burning, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time.
Experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino for different flavor profiles.
If your chips are browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these crispy Parmesan cheese chips immediately as a snack or appetizer. They are delicious on their own or with a dip such as marinara sauce, hummus, or a creamy artichoke dip.

Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crispy for up to 2-3 days. If they lose their crispness, you can refresh them by baking them in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes. Do not refrigerate, as this will make them soggy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	70 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	22 g	32%
Total Fat	2.5 g	3%
Saturated Fat	0.6 g	2%
Cholesterol	2.9 mg	0%
Sodium	117.1 mg	4%
Total Carbohydrate	9.4 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	0.3 g	1%
Sugars	0 g	0%
Protein	2.2 g	4%

Variations & Substitutions

Herb Variations: Instead of dried basil, try other herbs such as dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a touch of heat.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a blend of cheeses.
Garlic Powder: If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead. Use about 1/4 teaspoon.
Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use vegan wonton wrappers and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Gluten-Free: Look for gluten-free wonton wrappers, which are becoming increasingly available in specialty stores.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
A: Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt more evenly and result in a better texture.

Q: How do I prevent the chips from burning?
A: Keep a close eye on the chips while they are baking, and adjust the baking time as needed. You can also lower the oven temperature slightly if they are browning too quickly.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make these chips ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crispy for up to 2-3 days.

Q: What is the best way to reheat the chips?
A: If the chips lose their crispness, you can refresh them by baking them in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes.

Q: Can I use different types of oil?
A: Yes, you can use other types of oil such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil. Just make sure it is an oil with a high smoke point.

Final Thoughts

These crispy Parmesan cheese chips are a delightful snack that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer for a party or a savory treat to enjoy on your own, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and cheeses to create your own unique flavor combinations. Give it a try and let me know what you think! These chips pair beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water.

Crispy Parmesan Cheese Chips Recipe