Crispy Parmesan Onion Chips

This crispy hot honey pizza onion chip recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible snack that delivers all the flavors of your favorite pizza in a fun new format. The sweet onions become tender while the cheese creates a crispy base, and the hot honey adds that perfect sweet-heat finish.

I first created these when hosting an impromptu game night and needed something impressive without a trip to the store. They disappeared faster than any other snack I've ever served, and now my friends specifically request my 'pizza chips' whenever we get together.

Ingredients

• Parmesan cheese: Forms the crispy base and adds rich umami flavor. Choose block Parmesan and grate it yourself for the best melting quality.
• Sweet onion: Provides natural sweetness and becomes tender when baked. Look for Vidalia or Walla Walla varieties for the mildest flavor.
• Olive oil: Helps the onions cook evenly and adds a subtle richness. Use a good quality extra virgin for best results.
• Italian seasoning: Brings classic pizza herb flavors in one convenient blend.
• Smoked paprika: Adds depth and a subtle smoky note that enhances the pizza experience.
• Turkey pepperoni: Offers classic pizza flavor with less fat than traditional pepperoni.
• Hot honey: Creates the perfect sweet heat finish that makes these chips addictive.
• Marinara sauce: Serves as the perfect dipping companion. Warm it slightly for the best experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the oven:

Heat your oven to 400°F ensuring it reaches full temperature before baking. This high heat is crucial for creating the crispy cheese base that makes these chips so special.

Create the cheese base:

Spread 1½ cups of shredded Parmesan in an even, thin layer on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Take time to create a uniform layer as this will ensure even cooking and proper crispiness throughout.

Layer the onions:

Arrange the thinly sliced onion rings evenly over the Parmesan layer. Try not to overlap them too much as this can prevent proper crisping. The onions will shrink as they cook.

Season everything:

Brush the olive oil gently over the onion slices to help them cook evenly. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and smoked paprika across the entire surface to distribute the flavors evenly.

Add the toppings:

Place pepperoni slices strategically across the top and sprinkle the remaining 3 tablespoons of Parmesan to create that final pizza-like layer that will brown beautifully.

Bake to perfection:

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes watching carefully as ovens vary. Look for a golden brown color on the cheese and slight curling of the pepperoni edges. The onions should appear translucent.

Cooling and finishing:

Allow the chips to cool briefly on the baking sheet which helps them set up and become easier to handle. Drizzle generously with hot honey while still warm so it can penetrate the layers.

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My favorite part of this recipe is watching people's faces light up when they first taste the combination of sweet onion with the spicy honey. My nephew initially turned his nose up at onions until he tried these and now he asks for 'pizza chips' every time he visits.

Make Ahead Options

These onion chips are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline the process. Slice your onions and store them in cold water in the refrigerator up to a day ahead. This not only preserves them but also helps remove some of the sharpness. Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before using. You can also measure and mix your spices in advance. The actual assembly and baking should happen just before serving for the best texture.

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Flavor Variations

The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to different flavor profiles. For a Mediterranean twist, substitute feta cheese for some of the Parmesan and add sliced olives instead of pepperoni. Want something spicier? Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix and use spicy chorizo instead of turkey pepperoni. For a vegetarian option, replace the pepperoni with sun-dried tomatoes or thinly sliced bell peppers. The cheese base works wonderfully with countless topping combinations, so feel free to experiment with your favorite pizza toppings.

Serving Suggestions

While these chips are delicious on their own, they really shine as part of a spread. Serve them alongside a selection of dipping sauces like pesto, alfredo, or ranch in addition to the marinara. They make an excellent accompaniment to a cheese board or antipasto platter. For a more substantial offering, serve them with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness. These onion chips are also perfect for wine tasting events, pairing beautifully with both red and white varieties.

The Hot Honey Secret

The hot honey is what transforms these from good to unforgettable. While store-bought hot honey works perfectly, making your own allows you to control the heat level. Simply warm ½ cup of honey with 1 tablespoon of red pepper flakes until fragrant, then let it steep for at least an hour before straining. The longer it steeps, the spicier it becomes. This homemade version can be stored at room temperature for months and used on everything from these chips to fried chicken, cheese plates, or drizzled over ice cream for a sweet heat contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use regular honey instead of hot honey?

Yes, you can substitute regular honey if you prefer less heat. For a similar spicy-sweet flavor, mix 1/4 cup regular honey with 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce.

→ What type of onion works best for this dish?

Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla work best as they caramelize nicely and provide a milder flavor. Yellow onions can be substituted but may have a slightly stronger taste.

→ Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the turkey pepperoni or substitute with plant-based pepperoni alternatives. You could also add other vegetarian toppings like diced bell peppers or olives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

These chips are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes to restore some crispness.

→ What can I serve with these besides marinara sauce?

While marinara is the classic pairing, these chips also taste great with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, pesto, or even a balsamic glaze. For a spicier option, try buffalo sauce.

→ Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

Pre-shredded Parmesan will work, but freshly grated Parmesan often melts more evenly and provides better flavor. Look for Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best results.