Description
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2-3 jalapeños, finely diced
¼ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp paprika
Salt, to taste
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, diced jalapeños, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Scoop small spoonfuls of the cheese mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press each mound down slightly to
form a round shape.
Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese has melted into crisp rounds.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy snack!
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 7 minutes Total Time: 12 minutes Kcal: 150 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect, crispy cheese crisps every time.
- Prep Ingredients: Finely shred the sharp cheddar cheese yourself for optimal melting. Grate the Parmesan. Remove seeds and ribs from jalapeños for less heat, or leave them in for extra spice.
- Combine Thoroughly: In a medium bowl, mix the cheddar, Parmesan, diced jalapeños, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the spices and jalapeños are evenly distributed throughout the cheese.
- Portion with Care: Use a measuring teaspoon or small cookie scoop to create level, consistent mounds. Place them at least 2 inches apart on the parchment-lined sheet. Flatten each mound gently with your fingers or the back of a spoon to form a thin, even round.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Watch closely after the 5-minute mark. They are done when the edges are deep golden and the centers are no longer bubbling. They will crisp up as they cool.
- Cool Properly: Let the crisps cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes to set. Then, use a thin spatula to transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which ensures maximum crispness.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile crisps are more than just a snack. Serve them alongside a bowl of chili, atop a taco salad for a crunchy element, or as an elegant garnish for creamy soups like tomato or roasted red pepper. For a party, pair them with guacamole, salsa, or a cool sour cream dip to balance the heat.
How-to Summary
Mix shredded cheddar, Parmesan, diced jalapeños, and spices. Form into small, thin rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp. Cool slightly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? It’s not recommended. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent proper melting and crispiness.
How do I store leftovers? Store completely cooled crisps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may lose some crispness over time.
Can I make these in an air fryer? Yes. Place mounds in the air fryer basket, ensuring space between them. Cook at 370°F for 3-4 minutes until golden.
What other cheeses can I use? Pepper Jack is an excellent spicy alternative. For a different flavor, try a mix of Asiago and Romano.
Why are my crisps chewy instead of crispy? This is usually due to overcrowding the pan, making the mounds too thick, or not baking them long enough to release all moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Placing mounds too close causes them to melt into one another, resulting in uneven cooking and chewy spots.
- Making Them Too Thick: Thick mounds will stay soft in the center. Press them into thin, even rounds for consistent crispness.
- Using Wet Jalapeños: If using fresh jalapeños, pat them dry after dicing. Excess moisture can steam the cheese instead of letting it crisp.
- Not Watching the Oven: These bake quickly and can burn in moments. Stay nearby and check them frequently after 5 minutes.
Conclusion
These Jalapeño Cheddar Cheese Crisps are the ultimate quick, low-carb snack that delivers bold flavor and satisfying crunch. With just a few simple ingredients and minutes of effort, you can create a gourmet-style treat perfect for any occasion. Mastering the technique of thin, even portions and proper spacing is the key to perfect crispiness every time. Experiment with different cheeses and spice levels to make this recipe your own.
