Crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly golden, these Parmesan Puffs with Marinara are the ultimate appetizer or snack that will steal the show at any gathering. Made from a light choux pastry infused with grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper, these savory bites bake to perfection, boasting a crisp exterior and airy interior. Topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan before baking, they offer an extra layer of cheesy indulgence that pairs perfectly with a side of warm, tangy marinara sauce for dipping. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a quick bake in the oven, this elegant yet simple recipe is ideal for entertaining or a cozy night in. Whether served as a party starter or a kid-friendly snack, these Parmesan puffs are guaranteed to delight.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, unsalted butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture comes to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and add the flour to the saucepan, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until a smooth dough forms. Continue stirring for 1-2 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and leaves a thin film on the bottom.
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the dough to cool for 5 minutes.
Add the eggs to the dough, one at a time, beating well after each addition. The mixture should become smooth and slightly sticky.
Stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly combined.
Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round or star tip, or use a spoon to drop 1-inch mounds onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 1 inch of space between each mound.
Sprinkle the remaining 0.25 cup of Parmesan cheese over the tops of the dough mounds.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crisp on the outside. Avoid opening the oven door while baking to prevent deflation.
Warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan or in the microwave while the puffs are baking.
Remove the Parmesan puffs from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes.
Transfer the puffs to a serving plate and serve immediately with the warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Calories |
2497 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 158.3 g | 203% | |
| Saturated Fat | 88.5 g | 442% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1106 mg | 369% | |
| Sodium | 6448 mg | 280% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 114.5 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.4 g | 23% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.5 g | ||
| Protein | 153.1 g | 306% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.0 mcg | 20% | |
| Calcium | 3462 mg | 266% | |
| Iron | 10.3 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 734 mg | 16% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.