These Pepperoni and Cheese Chips are a fun, crunchy snack that combines pepperoni’s spicy flavor with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for any time you crave something cheesy!
They’re so easy to make, and you can enjoy them while watching a movie or just hanging out. I love dipping mine in marinara sauce—it’s like pizza in chip form! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pepperoni: Larger slices are best for this recipe as they provide a satisfying crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken pepperoni works well too. Vegan pepperoni is a great substitute for a plant-based version.
Cheese: I love using shredded mozzarella for the stretchy, gooey texture. If you want a sharper flavor, try using Cheddar or Gouda cheese. Vegan cheese can also be an option for those avoiding dairy.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning adds a nice touch, but you can experiment with other spices like crushed red pepper for heat or onion powder for extra flavor. Adjust the garlic powder based on your taste preference—it enhances the overall flavor nicely.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Cheese Chips?
Getting those cheese chips crispy can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you out:
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure pepperoni slices are spaced out to allow airflow, which helps in crisping.
- Keep an eye on the oven: Baking time can vary. Watch as the cheese melts and starts to get golden brown—you want it crispy but not burnt.
- Let them cool: Once you take them out of the oven, allow the chips to cool for a few minutes. This will help them firm up and become even crunchier.
Enjoy these chips as a tasty snack on their own or paired with your favorite dip. They’re sure to be a hit!
How to Make Pepperoni and Cheese Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 30 slices of pepperoni (larger size preferred)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 10 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying your crispy chips in around 25 minutes—quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Pepperoni:
Place the pepperoni slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they don’t overlap; this helps them get nice and crispy while baking.
3. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over each pepperoni slice. Be generous, but not too heavy, so the chips don’t get soggy.
4. Season It Up:
Next, lightly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder (if you’re using it), and fresh ground black pepper over the layered pepperoni and cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the cheese to melt, bubble slightly, and start to turn golden brown, whilst the edges of the pepperoni crisp up.
6. Cool and Crisp:
Once they look perfect, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chips cool for a few minutes. This cooling step allows them to firm up and become even crunchier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully transfer the chips to a serving plate. You can enjoy them warm or let them cool to room temperature. They’re a fantastic snack on their own or paired with marinara sauce for a tasty dip!
These Pepperoni and Cheese Chips are an irresistible, low-carb snack that feels indulgent but is super simple to make. Enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella provides that gooey texture, you can substitute it with Cheddar for a sharper flavor or Gouda for a smoky taste. Just make sure that whatever cheese you choose melts well.
How Do I Store Leftover Chips?
If you have leftovers (though they’re hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To re-crisp them, pop them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Yes! Feel free to sprinkle additional toppings like jalapeños for a kick, or some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor. Just take care not to overload them, as it might prevent them from crisping up properly.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
While these chips are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pepperoni and cheese on a baking sheet and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Bake them just before serving for optimal crunchiness!
