These Cottage Cheese Baked Chips are a crunchy and tasty snack that you can enjoy guilt-free! Made with simple ingredients, they’re baked to perfection for extra crunch.
I love snacking on these while watching my favorite shows. They’re protein-packed and super easy to make—perfect for when you’re feeling a bit peckish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: The star of these chips! Make sure it’s well drained to avoid soggy chips. If you’re looking for a change, ricotta can work too, but it may alter the texture slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a great depth of flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano for a tangy bite. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic dairy-free substitute with a cheesy flavor!
Mozzarella Cheese: This is optional and adds a stretchy texture. If you prefer less dairy, you can leave it out or use a dairy-free alternative like vegan mozzarella.
Herbs and Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder enhance the chip flavor. If you want to mix it up, try smoked paprika or chili powder for a little kick. Fresh herbs like chives or basil can boost the flavor too!
How Can I Ensure My Chips Stay Crispy?
The key to crispy baked chips lies in a few important steps. First, make sure all the cheese is well-drained and free of excess moisture. This is crucial! Also, flatten the mounds into thin rounds—thinner chips bake up crispier.
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even baking.
- Space the chips adequately on the baking sheet to prevent them from sticking together.
- Let them cool completely on the baking sheet after baking; they firm up as they cool.
These tips will help you achieve that desirable crunch with every bite!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Baked Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (well drained to remove excess liquid)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra stretch)
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds (black and white)
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for baking. You’ll have crispy, delicious Cottage Cheese Baked Chips ready in about 30-35 minutes, perfect for snacking anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat. This will help prevent the chips from sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the well-drained cottage cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella (if you’re using it), garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley or Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
3. Shape the Chips:
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop small mounds of the cheese mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Gently flatten each mound with the back of a spoon or your fingers to create thin rounds.
4. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the tops of each chip with sesame seeds and a little extra dried herbs if you’d like. This adds a nice crunch and flavor to the finished chips.
5. Bake Them Up:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the edges to be golden brown and crispy. The centers should be set but still tasty!
6. Cooling Time:
Once baked, carefully remove the chips from the oven. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will continue to firm up as they cool down, giving you that perfect crunch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chips are cool, use a spatula to gently lift them off the baking sheet. Serve them as a snack or appetizer, and feel free to garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor. Enjoy your delightful Cottage Cheese Baked Chips!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese will work just fine. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Store Leftover Chips?
Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them extra crispy, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving!
Can I Make These Chips Spicy?
Yes, you can easily add a kick! Just mix in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture to spice things up. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Chips?
To achieve maximum crispiness, ensure that the cheese mixture is well-drained. Also, flatten the mounds into thin rounds before baking, and give them enough space on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking.
