Save Crispy, cheesy, and utterly addictive, these pepperoni cheese crisps are the perfect snack for appetizers, game day, or a quick keto-friendly treat. Enjoy them fresh and hot for maximum flavor and that satisfying crunch everyone loves.
Save This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a gourmet appetizer. The combination of three different cheeses ensures a complex flavor profile, while the pepperoni provides a savory, spicy base that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 40–50 slices pepperoni (about 4 ounces; use turkey or spicy pepperoni for variation)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- 2. Combine Cheeses
- In a medium bowl, combine mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix well.
- 3. Season the Mixture
- Add Italian seasoning and garlic powder to the cheese mixture. Toss to combine; add red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.
- 4. Prepare Pepperoni
- If pepperoni slices are large, cut them in half.
- 5. Lay Out Pepperoni
- Arrange the pepperoni slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- 6. Add Cheese Topping
- Sprinkle a generous amount of the cheese mixture evenly over each pepperoni slice.
- 7. Bake
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, lightly golden, and the pepperoni is crispy.
- 8. Cool for Crispness
- Remove from the oven and let crisps cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for maximum crispness.
- 9. Garnish and Serve
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
- 10. Storage and Reheating
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For perfectly round crisps, assemble and bake the ingredients in a muffin tin. To ensure the best results for keto diets, use full-fat cheese and pepperoni. If you prefer using an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and cook the assembled crisps in a single layer for 5–7 minutes until they reach your desired level of crispness.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily swap the cheese for provolone, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. If you want to add more texture, try mixing in finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. For a flavor twist, swap the Italian seasoning for onion powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder.
Serviervorschläge
These crisps are delicious on their own, but they truly shine when served with a side of marinara dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add a touch of brightness and color to your presentation.
Save With zero effort and plenty of flavor, these Pepperoni Cheese Crisps are guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you need a low-carb snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is your go-to solution for crispy, cheesy perfection.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature and reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispness.
- → What cheese works best for crisps?
A blend of mozzarella for melt, cheddar for flavor, and Parmesan for crispiness creates the best texture. Provolone, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack make excellent substitutions.
- → Are these suitable for keto diets?
Absolutely. Each crisp contains only 0.3 grams of carbohydrates and 2.2 grams of protein. Use full-fat cheese and pepperoni for the best keto results.
- → Can I use turkey pepperoni?
Yes, turkey pepperoni works wonderfully and reduces the fat content. Spicy pepperoni adds a nice kick, while regular pepperoni provides classic flavor.
- → Why do my crisps turn out soggy?
Soggy crisps usually result from overcrowding the baking sheet or not cooling them completely. Leave space between slices and transfer to a wire rack after a few minutes of initial cooling.
- → Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Certainly. Preheat to 350°F, arrange pepperoni slices in a single layer, top with cheese, and cook for 5-7 minutes until crisp. Works perfectly for smaller batches.