The invention relates to a method for producing foamed slag on high-chromium steel melts in an electric furnace, whereby a mixture consisting of a metal oxide and carbon is introduced into the furnace, the metal oxide in the slag is reduced by the carbon, and the gases created in the slag form bubbles which thus foam up the slag. In order to be able to control the gas formation and thus the foaming process, the mixture consisting of a metal oxide and carbon and optionally an iron carrier is introduced as preforms, such as pellets, which are compressed and/or provided with a binding agent. The gas formation can be controlled in terms of location, type and time, by adjusting the characteristics of the pellets, especially the density and/or compression characteristics thereof.