Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bruschetta bites pack big flavor into a small package. The base is made entirely of crispy, oven-baked cheese that delivers crunch and richness in every bite. Topped with a bright and tangy tomato bruschetta mix, they offer a perfect balance of savory and fresh. They’re simple to make, naturally low-carb, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cheese crisps:
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (or a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella)
For the bruschetta topping:
- Cherry or Roma tomatoes, finely diced
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Place small mounds (about 1 tablespoon each) of shredded cheese onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly into circles.
- Bake for 5–8 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and crisp. Let cool completely on the baking sheet.
- While the cheese crisps cool, prepare the bruschetta topping: In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let sit for 10–15 minutes to marinate.
- Once the crisps are cool, carefully top each one with a spoonful of the bruschetta mixture.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 20 bites.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 8 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes
Variations
- Use different cheeses like cheddar or Asiago for unique flavor.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet finish.
- Top with a slice of fresh mozzarella for a Caprese-style version.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Mix in chopped olives or red onion to the tomato topping for more flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Cheese crisps can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Store the bruschetta topping separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving to keep the crisps crunchy. These bites are not ideal for reheating once assembled.
FAQs
Can I make the cheese crisps ahead of time?
Yes, they store well at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
What kind of cheese works best?
Parmesan is ideal for a crispy texture and savory flavor, but you can use other hard cheeses like cheddar or Asiago.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts and crisps more evenly.
Can I serve these cold?
They’re best at room temperature shortly after assembly. If chilled, the crisps may lose their crunch.
Can I make this keto-friendly?
They already are! These bites are naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto snack or appetizer.
Can I use store-bought bruschetta?
Yes, but fresh homemade bruschetta has the best flavor and texture.
Do the cheese crisps stay crispy?
Yes—if stored properly and topped just before serving.
Can I grill the tomato topping instead?
You can roast or grill the tomatoes for a smoky flavor, but cool them before topping the crisps.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What should I serve with these?
They pair well with wine, antipasto platters, or as part of a larger appetizer spread.
Conclusion
Crispy Cheese Bruschetta Bites are a creative, delicious twist on a classic appetizer that brings together the richness of cheese with the freshness of tomatoes and basil. Perfectly crunchy, full of flavor, and easy to make, these little bites are sure to impress guests and disappear fast at any gathering. Make a batch today and watch them vanish!
PrintCrispy Cheese Bruschetta Bites
Crispy Cheese Bruschetta Bites are low-carb, gluten-free appetizers made with baked Parmesan cheese crisps topped with a fresh tomato-basil bruschetta mix. They’re crunchy, savory, and perfect for parties or snacking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 bites
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking, Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese (or Parmesan and mozzarella blend)
- 2 cups cherry or Roma tomatoes, finely diced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place 1 tablespoon mounds of shredded cheese on the sheet, about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly into circles.
- Bake 5–8 minutes, until golden and crisp. Let cool on baking sheet.
- In a bowl, combine tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir and let sit 10–15 minutes to marinate.
- Top each cooled cheese crisp with a spoonful of bruschetta mixture.
- Serve immediately for best crunch.
Notes
- Make crisps ahead and store up to 2 days at room temperature; store topping separately.
- Use Asiago or cheddar for a flavor variation.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or add mozzarella slices for a Caprese twist.
- Assemble just before serving to keep crisps crunchy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg