These pepperoni and cheese chips are super crispy and packed with flavor! Perfect for a quick snack or game day munchies, they combine spicy pepperoni with rich cheese for a tasty treat.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love grabbing a handful while binge-watching my favorite shows. They disappear fast, so brace yourself! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella gives a great melt and stretch, but you can use other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer. Just make sure they melt well!
Pepperoni: While classic pepperoni is delicious, try turkey pepperoni or vegetarian pepperoni if you’re looking for a lighter or meat-free option. Both will work wonderfully.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice umami punch. If you don’t have it, consider using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a diary-free twist.
Seasoning: Feel free to get creative! Smoked paprika or garlic powder can kick up the flavor. Adjust to your taste!
How Can I Get My Chips Extra Crispy?
For wonderfully crispy chips, follow these tips:
- Make sure the baking sheet is lined properly to prevent sticking and allow even cooking.
- Keep an eye on them in the oven; oven times can vary. Look for golden edges to know they’re crispy.
- Letting them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes allows them to harden further.
Enjoy your pepperoni and cheese chips while they are fresh, as they taste best right out of the oven!
How to Make Pepperoni And Cheese Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
Optional Ingredients:
- Grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
- Chili flakes or Italian seasoning for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8-12 minutes to bake, so you can have hot, cheesy chips in no time—perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chips will bake properly and get that nice crispy texture. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Pepperoni:
Place the pepperoni slices on the baking sheet, spaced well apart. This allows the cheese to melt and spread without merging into one big blob—trust me, you want individual chips!
3. Add the Cheese:
Take about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle it around—and slightly under—each pepperoni slice. You’ll want to form a little cheese circle around each slice.
4. Season for Extra Flavor:
If you like, sprinkle a pinch of grated Parmesan cheese over each chip, and add some chili flakes or Italian seasoning for a kick! This step is totally optional but oh-so-delicious.
5. Bake Until Crispy:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven for about 8-12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; you’re looking for golden edges and a bubbly cheese appearance.
6. Cool and Crisp:
Once baked, take the chips out of the oven and let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes. This cooling time helps them get even crispier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Gently lift the chips off the parchment paper with a spatula. Serve them immediately as a crunchy, savory snack. They pair perfectly with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch!
Enjoy your homemade pepperoni and cheese chips—easy to make and hard to resist!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for melting, you can substitute it with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well!
Can I Prep These Chips in Advance?
It’s best to bake these chips fresh for optimal crispiness. However, you can prepare the toppings and arrange the pepperoni on the baking sheet ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
How Do I Store Leftover Chips?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may lose some crispiness, but you can re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes before serving!
What Variations Can I Try?
Get creative! Add toppings like jalapeños, olives, or spices to enhance the flavor. You can also switch up the type of pepperoni for turkey or even bacon bits for a different twist!
