Pepperoni Cheese Crisps Recipe

Pepperoni Cheese Crisps are a delicious, savory snack that combines the rich, salty flavor of pepperoni with the crispy crunch of melted cheese. The cheese crisps are made by baking or frying slices of pepperoni and shredded cheese until they become perfectly crispy and golden. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking, serving as an appetizer, or even adding to salads or charcuterie boards for extra flavor and crunch.

I first made these Pepperoni Cheese Crisps when I was craving a low-carb, keto-friendly snack and wanted something savory and indulgent. The crispy cheese paired wonderfully with the spicy, flavorful pepperoni, and every bite was a satisfying, crunchy, cheesy treat. They were super easy to make and turned out to be an instant favorite in my household.

What’s great about Pepperoni Cheese Crisps is how simple they are to prepare. You can mix different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan to create different textures and flavors. Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for an extra kick, or pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or marinara. These crisps are perfect for game day, parties, or when you just need a quick, satisfying snack!

Perfect for:

Keto or low-carb diets
Game day snacks
Quick appetizers
Cheese and pepperoni fans
Party bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Pepperoni Cheese Crisps will quickly become your go-to snack:

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of salty pepperoni and creamy cheese is an instant winner.
Crispy and Crunchy: These crisps have the perfect balance of crunch and meltiness.
Low-Carb Delight: A great option for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, they’re ready in no time.
Customizable: You can swap out the cheese or pepperoni for your favorite variations.
Perfect for Parties: These make a delicious and impressive appetizer for any gathering.
No Bake Option: You can also make them in a skillet for an even quicker prep time.
Great for Snacking: These crisps are the perfect way to curb a snack craving without the guilt.
Packed with Protein: With both cheese and pepperoni, these crisps are high in protein to keep you satisfied.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These crisps can be prepared in advance and stored for a snack throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 20 minutes
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12 crisps
Calories per serving: Approximately 90-110 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 1g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

For the Cheese Crisps:

12 slices of pepperoni
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or your favorite cheese)
Optional: A sprinkle of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes

Ingredient Highlights

Pepperoni: Adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor that perfectly complements the cheese.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and becomes crispy when baked.
Seasonings: Add a personal touch with your favorite seasonings for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crisps:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange Pepperoni: Lay the pepperoni slices flat on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each slice of pepperoni, covering it evenly.
Optional Seasoning: If desired, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and crispy.
Cool: Let the crisps cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.

Serve:

Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy these Pepperoni Cheese Crisps warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Pepperoni Cheese Crisps:

As a Party Appetizer: Serve as a quick, crowd-pleasing bite at your next party.
With Dips: Pair them with a side of marinara sauce, ranch, or sour cream for dipping.
As a Snack: Enjoy as a quick and satisfying snack any time of day.
On a Charcuterie Board: Add these to a charcuterie spread alongside other meats, cheeses, and olives.
With Pickles: Serve with a side of pickles for a tangy contrast to the savory crisps.
As a Salad Topping: Crumble them on top of a salad for an extra crunch.
With Veggies: Pair with fresh veggies like cucumber, celery, or bell peppers.
As a Burger Side: Serve as a crispy side to complement your burger or sandwich.
As a Game Day Snack: Perfect for watching the big game or hosting a viewing party.
With a Cold Drink: Enjoy these crisps with a cold drink or your favorite beverage.

Additional Tips

Use parchment paper: For easy removal and less mess, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. It helps prevent the cheese from sticking to the pan.
Choose high-quality cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar or mozzarella for the crispiest, most flavorful cheese crisps. A mix of both can also work great!
Preheat the oven: Make sure the oven is fully preheated to ensure even crisping of the cheese and pepperoni slices.
Adjust seasoning: You can sprinkle your cheese crisps with additional spices, like garlic powder, paprika, or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Cut pepperoni slices thin: Thinly sliced pepperoni will crisp up better and melt into the cheese, creating a more balanced texture.
Watch closely while baking: Since cheese crisps bake quickly, keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning.
Use a cooling rack: Let the crisps cool on a rack instead of a flat surface to maintain their crispiness by allowing air to circulate.
Add herbs: Fresh basil or oregano sprinkled on top of the cheese before baking adds a burst of flavor.
Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, enjoy the crisps right after baking while they’re still crispy.
Experiment with flavors: You can use flavored pepperoni, like spicy or garlic-infused, for an extra punch of taste in your crisps.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Pepperoni Cheese Crisps: Add a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce to the cheese before baking for a spicy kick.
Cheddar Cheese Crisps: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger, tangy flavor.
Garlic Parmesan: Top with grated parmesan and garlic powder for a garlic bread-inspired version.
Beef Bacon Cheese Crisps: Add cooked, crumbled beef bacon to the top of the cheese before baking for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the pepperoni for slices of veggie or tofu “pepperoni” for a vegetarian alternative.

Special Equipment

Baking Sheet: For baking the pepperoni and cheese until crispy.
Parchment Paper: To ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
Grater: If using block cheese, grate it yourself for a fresher taste.
Non-stick Skillet (optional): For a quick stovetop version.

FAQ Section

Can I use turkey pepperoni?
Yes, turkey pepperoni can be used as a lower-fat alternative.
How long do these crisps last?
They’re best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze these crisps?
Yes, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella is ideal for melting, but feel free to experiment with cheddar, gouda, or a blend.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can bake them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for later.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Try adding olives, jalapeños, or herbs for extra flavor.
How do I make them crispier?
Bake at a higher temperature for a shorter time to ensure maximum crispness.
Can I use a different meat?
Yes, try using beef ham, beef salami, or even prosciutto for a variation.
How can I make these more filling?
Add a slice of cheese or avocado between two pepperoni crisps for a bite-sized sandwich.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for later use.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Cheese Crisps are a savory, low-carb, and incredibly satisfying snack that’s packed with flavor. These crispy treats are made by baking slices of pepperoni and shredded cheese until they become crispy and golden, creating a crunchy, cheesy snack that’s perfect for munching on at any time of day. The pepperoni crisps up beautifully, adding a nice salty, spicy kick to the cheesy base. They’re ideal for a quick snack, as a topping for salads, or even as a fun addition to a charcuterie board.

What makes Pepperoni Cheese Crisps so special is their simplicity and the bold combination of flavors—the pepperoni brings a touch of spice and saltiness, while the melted cheese adds a savory, gooey layer of richness. These are perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying, low-carb alternative to traditional chips or crackers.

I can’t wait to see how your Pepperoni Cheese Crisps turn out! Snap a photo and share it on Instagram, tagging me so I can admire your delicious creation. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made them your own—I’d love to hear about your personal twist on this easy, cheesy snack!