Description
Frico is the ultimate Italian cheese snack that combines simplicity with bold flavor. Made primarily from Montasio cheese, it’s crispy, golden, and packed with umami. Whether you prefer your Frico as lacy crisps or a heartier version cooked with potatoes, this dish delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. It’s the perfect appetizer, snack, or even a garnish to elevate your meal. With just a few ingredients and in under 15 minutes, you can enjoy this irresistible Italian treat!
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups grated Montasio cheese (or substitute Parmesan or Asiago)
Optional for soft Frico: 1 medium potato, peeled and thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil (if making soft Frico)
Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- For crispy Frico: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle a thin, even layer of grated cheese (about 2 tablespoons per crisp) into rounds on the skillet. Cook for 3–5 minutes or until the cheese turns golden and lacy. Let cool briefly to firm up before removing the crisps.
- For soft Frico: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced potato and cook until tender and lightly golden. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top and press down slightly. Cook until the cheese melts and forms a crispy base, and the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip the Frico or finish it under the broiler if desired.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper if using. Serve hot or warm.
Notes
For a different flavor profile, try using Parmigiano-Reggiano or Asiago cheese instead of Montasio.
Add other vegetables like onions or spinach to the soft Frico for extra flavor.
For a spicy twist, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the cheese before cooking.
Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added on top for an herb-infused Frico.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crisp (crispy Frico)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
