These tasty Pepperoni and Cheese Chips are crunchy, cheesy snacks that you’ll love! Just slice up some pepperoni and cheese, bake them until they’re crispy, and enjoy!
They’re perfect for munching while watching a movie or as a fun party treat. Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking a few before they’re even finished baking! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pepperoni: Look for thin slices for even crispiness. You could swap it for turkey or beef pepperoni for a lighter option, or use salami for a different flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try using mushrooms or olives instead!
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is great for its stretchy texture, but you can mix in cheddar for extra sharpness. Dairy-free cheese options are also available and can work well here without losing the cheesiness.
Grated Parmesan: This adds a lovely salty crunch. If you don’t have Parmesan, try pecorino or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free take. It’s a great way to keep that cheesy flavor without the cheese!
Seasoning: Garlic powder and chili flakes can enhance flavors. Use your personal taste: try onion powder or smoked paprika for a different kick. Don’t hesitate to experiment with whatever spices you love!
How Do I Ensure My Chips are Perfectly Crispy?
Getting those chips crispy is essential! Here are steps to help you achieve that crunchy texture. First, make sure there’s enough space between the pepperoni slices on the baking sheet—this helps them cook evenly. Secondly, you want to watch the baking time closely; every oven is different! Keep an eye on them after the 8-minute mark. Lastly, let them cool on the sheet to allow the residual heat to finish crisping them up. Enjoy your tasty snack!
How to Make Pepperoni and Cheese Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 slices of pepperoni (thin-sliced)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)
- Optional: garlic powder, chili flakes, or Italian seasoning to taste
- Flaky sea salt (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prep and around 10-12 minutes to bake, for a total of about 15-20 minutes. You’ll be enjoying your crunchy Pepperoni and Cheese Chips in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To make things easier for cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat.
2. Arrange Your Pepperoni:
Place the pepperoni slices evenly spaced on the lined baking sheet. Make sure they are not overlapping, so they crisp nicely.
3. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle small mounds of shredded mozzarella cheese in between the pepperoni slices. It’s a good idea to flatten the cheese mounds a bit so they resemble small discs—this helps them bake evenly!
4. Sprinkle Parmesan:
Now, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese over both the pepperoni and mozzarella cheese. This will add a nice extra flavor and a little bit of crunch.
5. Season It Up (Optional):
If you like, add a light sprinkle of garlic powder, chili flakes, or Italian seasoning for an extra burst of flavor. Feel free to customize it to your taste!
6. Bake Until Crispy:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 8-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the chips are ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden and the edges of the pepperoni are crispy.
7. Cool and Crisp:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let the chips cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will get crispier as they cool down.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some flaky sea salt over the top for that perfect finishing touch. Now, you’re ready to enjoy your crunchy, savory snacks!
Enjoy these delicious Pepperoni and Cheese Chips as a perfect snack, whether it’s for game day, a movie night, or anytime you’re craving something cheesy and crunchy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is a great choice for its meltiness, you can mix in other cheeses like cheddar for added flavor. Just keep in mind, the texture and taste may change slightly!
How to Store Leftover Chips?
These chips are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They may lose some crispiness, so reheat them briefly in the oven to revive their crunch!
Can I Make These in an Air Fryer?
Yes! To make them in an air fryer, arrange the pepperoni and cheese in a single layer in the basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning.
What Can I Serve with Pepperoni and Cheese Chips?
These chips pair wonderfully with dips like marinara, ranch, or guacamole! They’re also great as a side to salads or soups for an added crunch.
