Parmesan Cheddar Basil Bites: The Cheesy, Herby Snack You Didn’t Know You Needed
There’s something about a buttery, cheesy bite packed with herbs that hits the spot—especially when it’s homemade. These Parmesan Cheddar Basil Bites are the perfect savory snack: tender, crisp, full of flavor, and easy to shape into cute stars or rounds. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just need a nibble with your afternoon tea, these bites are here to deliver.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a big fan of cheesy snacks, and this one checks all the boxes. The sharp Cheddar and nutty Parmesan combo gives these little bites serious depth, while fresh basil adds an aromatic kick. They’re perfect served warm, at room temperature, or even straight from the fridge. And let’s not forget: rolling and cutting them into star shapes is half the fun.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 5 tablespoons half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
Swaps and Notes
- No half-and-half? Use whole milk or even heavy cream for a richer dough.
- You can substitute dried basil (1 tablespoon) if fresh basil isn’t available.
- Want a spicy kick? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dough.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cream Base: In a large bowl, beat the Cheddar cheese, softened butter, half-and-half, and kosher salt on medium speed until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour, Parmesan cheese, and basil just until a soft dough forms.
- Divide & Roll: Turn the dough onto a floured surface, divide into three portions, and roll each to 1/8-inch thickness.
- Shape: Use a star cutter (or your favorite shape) to punch out pieces.
- Arrange: Place shapes about 1 inch apart on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 11–14 minutes, until golden brown.
- Cool: Let cool on baking sheets for 30 minutes on a wire rack. Then dig in!
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature butter to ensure a smooth dough.
- Don’t overbake—the bites should be golden but not dark brown.
- Chill the dough slightly if it becomes too soft while cutting shapes.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These bites pair perfectly with:
- Crockpot Nacho Dip for extra cheesy indulgence
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas on a party board
- Or serve them alongside a warm bowl of Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole for a complete comfort food spread
They’re also amazing with a glass of wine or your favorite herby cocktail.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze the uncooked dough and bake straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Wontons – Crispy, cheesy finger food heaven
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – Because you always need a sweet bite to balance the savory
Final Thoughts
These Parmesan Cheddar Basil Bites are small but mighty—full of bold flavor and buttery crunch. Whether shaped into stars or circles, they’re a creative twist on traditional crackers and a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! Be sure to follow for more crave-worthy creations from my kitchen to yours. 🧀🌿✨
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