Parmesan Cheese Straws
Crisp and cheesy Parmesan Cheese Straws offer a savory snack with a hint of red pepper, perfect for parties, appetizers, or a flavorful treat with drinks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Position knife blade in food processor bowl; add cheese and butter.
- Process until blended.
- Add flour, salt, and red pepper; process about 30 seconds or until mixture forms a ball, stopping often to scrape down sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch more ground red pepper. You can also substitute half of the butter with cream cheese for a creamier texture. If you don't have milk on hand, water can work as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Parmesan cheese straws make a delightful appetizer or snack. They pair beautifully with a glass of wine or a fresh salad. Consider serving them alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping or alongside the Simplified Egg Casserole for a brunch spread. They also make a great addition to a cheese platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep them crispy, avoid refrigerating. If you need to reheat them, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Cheese Straws contains roughly 650 calories, with 9g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 627mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling out.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute, Gruyère or aged Gouda can work well, providing a similar nutty flavor. For a vegetarian option, ensure your cheese is rennet-free, and you can also experiment with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Can I freeze the cheese straws?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese straws before baking. Shape the straws and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).