Tasty Rounds of Cheddar and Parmesan Cheese

Introduction to Fricos

Fricos are tasty rounds of cheddar and Parmesan cheese that are often dubbed “fricos” or “frico cheese crisps” on restaurant menus. These thin-and-crunchy rounds are generally made using only grated Parmesan, but adding a little flavor interest by including grated white cheddar cheese along with chopped pistachios and fresh thyme can elevate their taste. They are delicious served as appetizer nibbles or used to accompany green salads.

Preparation and Serving

Make sure that you have a thin, flexible metal spatula to lift them off the baking sheet. They are at their crispy best served within hours of baking, but if storing, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container up to one day.

Recipe: Parm-Cheddar Crisps

Yield and Ingredients

Yield: About 30

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup (loosely packed) grated white cheddar cheese
1 generous cup (about 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons) grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup chopped shelled, roasted, salted pistachio nuts
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves

Directions

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Combine cheeses in medium bowl. Drop mixture by rounded teaspoonsful (dinnerware teaspoons not measuring spoons) onto 2 rimmed baking sheets leaving about 1 1/2 inches between them so they have room to spread out when they melt. Sprinkle each with pistachios and thyme leaves. Press each down slightly. You can use the back of a spoon or the bottom of clean fingers.
3. Bake 5 to 6 minutes or until crisps are bubbling and edges are slightly golden. Let rest for about 20 to 30 seconds. Remove with thin flexible metal spatula (I turn mine upside-down) and cool on paper towels.

About the Author

Award-winning food writer Cathy Thomas has written three cookbooks, including “50 Best Plants on the Planet.” Follow her at CathyThomasCooks.com.

Conclusion

Fricos, or Parm-Cheddar Crisps, are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or accompaniment to salads. With their unique blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese, along with the added flavors of pistachios and thyme, they are sure to be a hit. By following the simple recipe provided, you can enjoy these tasty rounds at their crispy best.

FAQs

• Q: What is the best way to store fricos?
  A: Fricos are best served within hours of baking, but they can be stored in an airtight container layered between sheets of parchment paper for up to one day.
• Q: Can I use other types of cheese for fricos?
  A: While the recipe provided uses white cheddar and Parmesan cheese, you can experiment with other types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
• Q: How do I prevent fricos from breaking when removing them from the baking sheet?
  A: Use a thin, flexible metal spatula to gently lift the fricos off the baking sheet. You can also turn the spatula upside-down for added ease.
  Originally Published: April 1, 2025 at 9:34 AM PDT