Air Fryer Parmesan Crisps: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Parmesan crisps are thin, crispy crackers made from grated Parmesan cheese. They are a popular snack and can be served as an appetizer or used as a garnish for soups and salads. In this article, we will discuss how to make Parmesan crisps in an air fryer, a quick and easy method that results in crispy and delicious treats.

Choosing the right Parmesan

Parmesan cheese is a pale yellow, hard cheese made from cow's milk. Its rind is hard and naturally formed, and it comes in huge quarter wheels with crunchy crystals that form as the cheese ages. The ageing process is called proteolysis, which gives the cheese its texture and flavour.

When choosing the right Parmesan, there are several factors to consider:

Look for Authenticity

A few brands are known for producing top-notch, award-winning Parmesan cheese. For authentic Parmesan cheese, look for the label "Parmigiano-Reggiano." This specific label ensures the cheese is produced in a specific region of Italy under strict regulations, guaranteeing high quality.

Sample or Taste Before Buying

If possible, ask for a small sample or taste the cheese before purchasing. High-quality Parmesan should have a rich, nutty aroma and a complex, savoury flavour.

Choose the DOP Designation

The DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) designation ensures the product's origin and traditional production methods. A high-quality Parmesan will likely have the DOP label and clear details about its heritage.

Consider Ageing

Parmesan cheese comes in different ageing categories, such as "aged 18 months," "24 months," or even "36 months." The longer the ageing process, the more complex and intense the flavour will be.

Buy Blocks or Chunks

Instead of buying grated Parmesan, opt for blocks or chunks as the cheese starts to lose its flavour when exposed to air. Pre-grated versions often contain non-dairy ingredients and preservatives.

Personal Taste

Ultimately, personal taste preferences play a significant role in choosing the best Parmesan.

Grated Parmesan

While convenient, grated Parmesan is best used as a topping on already prepared foods like pizza or soup, or in recipes like pasta sauce.

Shredded/Shaved Parmesan

Shaved or shredded Parmesan adds a more artistic touch as a topping on salads and provides texture to dishes like casseroles, risotto, and baked recipes.

Chiseled Parmesan

For a poppable snack, choose chiseled Parmesan. It can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with chocolate and nuts for a unique trail mix.

Sliced Parmesan

Sliced Parmesan is perfect for sandwiches, or you can grate it for an extra-fresh topping.

Source from Italy or Reputable Producers

To enjoy Italian-made Parmigiano Reggiano, look for the Denominazione di Origine Protetta (DOP) mark, ensuring its origin and traditional production. Alternatively, if you cannot travel to Italy, opt for well-known American producers like Sartori, BelGioioso, or Arthur Schuman, Inc., which offer widely available, high-quality pre-grated Parmesan.

Grating the cheese

To grate the cheese, you can use a box grater or a handheld grater. Grate the cheese finely using the small holes of the box grater. You want to end up with a mound of fluffy, shredded cheese. If you are using pre-grated cheese, look for a variety that is finely grated to ensure even melting and cooking.

Once you have your finely grated Parmesan cheese, you can move on to the next step of making your Parmesan crisps in the air fryer!

Adding seasoning

Firstly, it's important to note that you should always use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best results. Pre-grated parmesan may not melt as well, and bagged cheese is often coated in cellulose, which inhibits melting.

When it comes to seasoning, you have a lot of options. Italian seasoning is a popular choice, and you can also add garlic powder for an extra kick. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing in some dried rosemary or thyme for an herby flavour profile. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes, or sprinkle with black pepper. Nut lovers might enjoy adding sesame or chia seeds to their mix.

If you're making a larger batch, it's a good idea to mix your grated parmesan with the seasonings in a bowl before placing them on the baking sheet or in the air fryer. This will ensure your seasonings are evenly distributed.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese to change the flavour profile. While parmesan is a popular choice, you can also try cheddar, gouda, or asiago. Just remember that harder cheeses tend to work better for making cheese crisps, as they have a lower moisture content.

Lastly, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations of seasonings. You might discover a delicious new flavour that you can call your own!

Shaping the crisps

Start by preparing your chosen surface. If using an air fryer, line the air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper. This step is important as it ensures the cheese doesn't stick and makes cleanup easier. You can also use a silicone mat if you don't have parchment paper.

Next, take your freshly grated Parmesan cheese and spread it onto the prepared surface. Use a spoon to portion out heaping tablespoons of cheese, leaving a small space between each mound. The ideal thickness of the cheese mounds will be thin, as thinner layers crisp up better. You can also add any desired seasonings or spices at this stage, such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or herbs.

Now, it's time to shape the crisps. Using your fingers or the back of a spoon, lightly pat down and flatten the cheese mounds. You can also use a muffin tin or muffin pan, adding 2-3 tablespoons of shredded Parmesan cheese to each mould. This method will create curved, cup-shaped crisps that are perfect for holding dips.

If you want to get creative, you can shape the crisps into different forms, such as taco shells, rolled shapes, or bowls. Just be sure to work quickly, as the cheese needs to remain warm for shaping. You can also sprinkle on some toppings, such as cracked black pepper, red pepper flakes, or sesame seeds, for an extra flavour boost.

Once you're happy with the shape and thickness of your crisps, they're ready to be cooked! Place the prepared crisps into the air fryer and follow the recommended cooking instructions for the perfect, crunchy treat.

Storing the crisps

Firstly, ensure the crisps have cooled to room temperature before storing them. This step is crucial as it helps prevent moisture buildup, which can cause the crisps to become soggy. Once cooled, choose an airtight container, such as a resealable bag, glass jar, or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid, that is large enough to hold the crisps without crushing them.

To provide an extra layer of protection against moisture, line the bottom of your chosen container with a paper towel or parchment paper. Then, place the Parmesan crisps in a single layer on top, ensuring they do not overlap. Seal the container tightly and store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

If you have made a large batch, you can also freeze the crisps. Simply place them in an airtight container, such as a zip-top bag, and store them in the freezer for up to six months. This way, you can enjoy your favourite snack whenever the craving strikes!

When stored correctly, your Parmesan crisps should maintain their crispy texture and flavour for several days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh, as they will start to soften when stored in the fridge. If you have any leftovers, you can always recrisp them in the oven for a couple of minutes or in the microwave for about 30 seconds.

Frequently asked questions