The One-Ingredient Italian Cheese Crisp That Makes Everything Better

Introducing, frico—you’ll fall in love one salty bite at a time.

Several baked cheese crisps on a slate board with a cloth napkin nearby
Credit:

Bryan Gardner
  • Frico is the ultimate one-ingredient snack that’s crispy, salty, and perfect for elevating any dish or occasion.
  • Making frico is quick and easy—just melt aged hard cheese like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano until golden and crisp.
  • Enjoy frico as a snack, salad topper, soup garnish, or even paired with ice cream for a sweet-salty twist.

Frico is a traditional Italian snack, and it is having yet another well-deserved moment in the spotlight. It's no wonder that people go wild over these crunchy, melty, and salty cheese crisps, because what’s better than cheese? Crispy cheese, of course. Frico is made by melting aged hard cheese (think Parmesan or Pecorino Romano) in a skillet or the oven until it becomes golden and crisp. They come together super-quickly, with little to no cleanup. There’s really not much to do but watch the cheese melt—and then enjoy the irresistible flavor.

Best of all, frico is guaranteed to delight and appeal to a wide variety of eaters. Cook some for gluten-free or keto-friendly guests, or prepare a handful just for yourself. We spoke with a cheese expert to get the details on this dreamy Italian cheese crisp.

Clare Malfitano, corporate chef for Murray’s Cheese