If you love crispy, cheesy snacks with a bold, savory kick, these Pimento Cheese Crisps are perfect! Made with melted cheese and crispy pepperoni, they are low-carb, keto-friendly, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you bake them, air-fry them, or microwave them for a quick fix, these cheese crisps are a delicious, protein-packed snack that’s great for dipping, snacking, or even adding to pasta dishes.

Looking for pepperoni chips air fryer recipes, melted cheese crisps, or a simple onion crisps recipe? These pimento cheese crisps are a savory, crunchy treat that takes just minutes to make!

Why You’ll Love These Pimento Cheese Crisps

Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes!
Keto & Low-Carb – A great snack for a carnivore or keto diet.
Crunchy & Cheesy – Perfect for dipping or eating on their own.
Customizable – Make them with different cheeses or seasonings.
Air Fryer, Microwave, or Oven-Friendly – Choose your preferred cooking method.

Ingredients for Pimento Cheese Crisps

½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
¼ cup pimento cheese spread (or make your own with diced pimentos & cream cheese)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
10 slices pepperoni, chopped or whole
1 tablespoon parmesan cheese (optional for extra crispiness)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these cheesy crisps, you’ll need:

Baking sheet with parchment paper (for oven baking)
Air fryer (for extra crunch)
Microwave-safe plate (for quick cooking)
Cheese grater

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pimento Cheese Crisps

Oven Method (Best for Large Batches)

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, pimento cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a bowl.
Spoon small mounds of the cheese mixture onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Press a pepperoni slice (or chopped pepperoni) onto each cheese pile.
Bake for 7-10 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving (they will crisp up as they cool).

Air Fryer Method (Best for Extra Crunchy Crisps)

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
Place small mounds of cheese mixture on parchment paper inside the air fryer basket.
Press a pepperoni slice on top of each cheese pile.
Air fry for 5-7 minutes, until crispy and golden.
Let cool before serving.

Microwave Method (Best for Quick Snacks)

Place small piles of cheese mixture on a microwave-safe plate lined with parchment paper.
Microwave for 45-60 seconds, until bubbly and crisp.
Let cool for 1-2 minutes before eating.

Expert Tips for the Best Cheese Crisps

Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper crisping.
Let them cool completely – They firm up as they cool for the perfect crunch.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cheese spreads while baking, so leave space between crisps.
Want extra crunch? – Add a sprinkle of parmesan before baking.

Fun Variations of Pimento Cheese Crisps

Spicy Cheese Crisps – Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
Onion Crisps Recipe – Mix in crispy fried onions for extra crunch.
Carnivore Pepperoni Chips – Use only pepperoni and skip the cheese for a meat-only snack.
Everything Bagel Cheese Crisps – Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before baking.
Pasta Snacks Appetizers – Crumble over pasta or salads for added crunch!

How to Store & Keep Cheese Crisps Fresh

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: Keep in a sealed bag for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months, then reheat in an oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.

Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips

Dip in marinara sauce for a pizza-like snack.
Pair with guacamole or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
Add to a charcuterie board with olives, nuts, and meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cheese Crisps

Using too much cheese – They will melt into large puddles instead of crisping.
Not using parchment paper – Helps prevent sticking and burning.
Cooking too long – Cheese crisps quickly; watch closely in the last minutes.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Cheese Crisps

With a crisp salad – Adds crunch to a fresh Caesar or garden salad.
As a low-carb bread substitute – Use in place of crackers for dips.
With a keto-friendly soup – Pairs well with tomato or broccoli cheddar soup.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these crisps without pepperoni?
Yes! You can omit pepperoni or use turkey pepperoni or prosciutto instead.

2. Can I make cheese crisps in advance?
Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container and reheat in an oven or air fryer.

3. Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Try Parmesan, Colby Jack, or Swiss for different flavors.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

These Pimento Cheese Crisps are an easy, low-carb, and ultra-crunchy snack perfect for parties, game nights, or quick appetizers. Whether you air fry, microwave, or bake them, they’re addictive, cheesy, and packed with flavor!

Try this pepperoni cheese crisp recipe today and share your results! Tag us on social media and subscribe for more delicious, easy snack ideas!