These Pepperoni And Cheese Chips are a tasty snack you’ll love! Made with crispy cheese and savory pepperoni, they are perfect for munching anytime. Yum!
Every bite gives you that crunchy feeling, making it hard to stop at just one chip. I like to have them during movie night—snack time just got an upgrade! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This is the star of the show! I love using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for extra flavor. If you want to switch it up, try gouda or provolone for a unique twist.
Pepperoni: Thin slices are perfect for crispiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or beef pepperoni work well too. You can even go vegan with plant-based pepperoni!
Italian Seasoning: This is optional but adds a wonderful herb flavor. Feel free to mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand. It makes the chips taste more gourmet!
Garlic Powder: A hint of garlic adds depth. If you prefer fresh, minced garlic works too! Just be careful as fresh garlic can burn faster.
How do I bake the perfect Pepperoni and Cheese Chips?
Baking these chips just right can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature. I’ve gathered some pro tips to help you nail it!
- Preheat your oven thoroughly. This helps the cheese melt evenly and crisp up nicely.
- Space out your pepperoni. They shrink while cooking, so leave some space between slices for better air circulation.
- Watch the baking time closely! Keep an eye on the chips around the 8-minute mark to avoid burning. They should be golden and bubbly.
- Let them cool on the pan a bit. This helps the chips firm up perfectly for that crunchy bite.
These insights will help you create the best Pepperoni and Cheese Chips! Enjoy them straight from the oven for that awesome cheesy crunch.
How to Make Pepperoni And Cheese Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 20-25 thin slices of pepperoni
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 8-12 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 15-20 minutes to enjoy these tasty chips. Quick and easy snack time is here!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important for getting that perfect crispy texture on your chips. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Pepperoni:
Take your thin slices of pepperoni and arrange them on the lined baking sheet. Be sure to space them slightly apart—this allows them to cook evenly without overlapping. They will shrink and crisp up while baking, so don’t worry about the gaps!
3. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the shredded cheese! Use about 1 tablespoon of cheese per pepperoni slice and get cheesy! Cover each slice evenly to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
4. Season Them Up:
If you want to add an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper over the cheese. This step is optional, but it enhances the taste nicely!
5. Baking Time:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes—you’re looking for melted cheese that is starting to crisp up, and the edges of the pepperoni should be turning nice and crispy.
6. Cooling Time:
Once done, take the baking sheet out of the oven and let the chips cool on the sheet for a few minutes. They might seem a bit soft at first, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Using a spatula, carefully lift the chips off the parchment paper and transfer them to a plate. Serve them up right away as a scrumptious, crunchy snack that everyone will love!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Pepperoni and Cheese Chips as a low-carb snack or appetizer! Perfect for parties or a cozy movie night at home!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for its meltiness, you can mix in cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just keep an eye on the melting point as some cheeses may brown faster!
Can I Make These Chips in a Microwave?
Yes, you can! Place the pepperoni slices on a microwave-safe plate, top with cheese, and microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure the cheese melts and the edges don’t get too crispy.
How Do I 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 2 days. Just know they may lose some crunch!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding toppings like diced jalapeños, olives, or even a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor. Just make sure not to overload them, or the chips might become soggy!
