I still remember the first time I watched my Nonna crisp pepperoni slices on a cast-iron pan while sneaking little cubes of aged provolone into my pockets. It wasn’t part of a formal recipe—just something she whipped up to satisfy our afternoon cravings before dinner. That little kitchen in southern Italy smelled like comfort: smoky, savory, and cheesy.
Fast forward to today, and these Pepperoni and Cheese Crisps have become a staple snack in my home. Whether I’m hosting a last-minute get-together, prepping keto-friendly bites, or just craving something crunchy without the carbs—this recipe delivers every time. It’s simple, quick, and packed with that satisfying salty-cheesy flavor that always disappears in minutes.
These Pepperoni and Cheese Crisps have become a favorite in my kitchen, just like my refreshing Bruschetta Pasta Salad for summer gatherings.
Why You’ll Love These Crisps
These Pepperoni and Cheese Crisps aren’t just another snack—they’re your new go-to for when cravings strike. Here’s why they’re absolutely irresistible:
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – No flour, no fillers, just crisped meat and melted cheese. Perfect for anyone watching their carbs.
- Ridiculously Easy to Make – Just two main ingredients and a baking tray. You’ll have a batch ready in under 15 minutes.
- Incredibly Versatile – Serve them as a game-day snack, a cocktail-hour appetizer, or even as a crunchy topping for salads or soups.
- Customizable – Try different cheeses, add herbs, or sandwich them with a pickle for that perfect punch.
If you’re a fan of bold, savory flavors and snacks that crunch, this one’s for you.
Ingredients
- 16 slices of pepperoni (thin-sliced, standard or turkey pepperoni)
Each slice of pepperoni (see nutritional profile here) adds that classic smoky flavor and crisped texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone work great)
- Optional additions:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (for an herby kick)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy)
- Pickle slices (for making “pickle chips” variation)
Tip: You can swap shredded cheese for small cubes for a chunkier texture, or even use cheese slices trimmed to match the pepperoni.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 (about 12–16 crisps)
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and helps your crisps cook evenly.
2. Arrange the Pepperoni
Lay out the pepperoni slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, spacing them about ½ inch apart. They’ll shrink a bit as they bake.
3. Add the Cheese
Top each pepperoni slice with a small mound of shredded cheese—about 1 tablespoon per slice. Don’t overload it, or the cheese may pool.
4. Season (Optional)
If you’re using Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes, sprinkle a pinch over each crisp before baking.
5. Bake
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the edges are golden-brown and crisp.
6. Cool
Remove from oven and let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes. This allows them to crisp up fully.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Use a spatula to lift each crisp from the tray. Serve warm or store in an airtight container once completely cooled.
For “Pickle Chips” Version: Add a small pickle slice between the pepperoni and cheese before baking!
Tips for Perfect Pepperoni and Cheese Crisps
Want those crisps to be next-level crunchy and full of flavor? Here are my go-to tips:
Use Parchment or Silicone Mats
Cheese gets sticky when baked—use a non-stick surface to ensure easy removal and perfect crisp edges.
Keep It Thin
Thinner pepperoni slices crisp up better and more evenly. If they’re too thick, they may stay chewy in the center.
Don’t Overload with Cheese
A heaping tablespoon is plenty. Too much cheese and your crisps might turn into puddles instead of chips.
Drain Excess Oil
After baking, place crisps briefly on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any extra grease—especially helpful if you’re making a big batch.
Cool Completely for Best Crunch
Resist the temptation to snack early. Crisps continue to harden as they cool and reach their full crunch potential after 5–10 minutes.
Want to experiment? Here’s a helpful guide to choosing the best cheese for cooking.
Want to Mix It Up?
- Try Different Cheeses: Parmesan for a saltier snap, cheddar for boldness, or gouda for a smoky note.
- Add a Slice of Jalapeño before baking for a spicy variation.
- Sprinkle with Everything Bagel Seasoning just before baking—trust me on this one.
Just like with homemade egg noodles, letting these crisps cool is crucial for that perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Pepperoni and Cheese Crisps are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with just about anything savory. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:
On a Snack Board
Layer them on a charcuterie board with olives, nuts, and pickled vegetables. They’re the perfect low-carb replacement for crackers.
With Dips
Serve with:
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Spicy mustard
- Creamy jalapeño dip
Pro tip: Warm dips make a great contrast to the crisp texture!
As a Party Appetizer
These crisps are a hit at cocktail hours or game nights. Arrange them in a circle around a dip and watch them disappear.
As a Crunchy Topping
Crumble them over:
- Caesar salads
- Zucchini noodles
- Tomato soup
They add a cheesy, meaty crunch that’s better than croutons!
Serve these crisps with a simple dip or alongside roasted bites like these maple syrup glazed carrots for a flavorful platter.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This estimate is based on a serving of 4 crisps, made with standard pork pepperoni and shredded mozzarella:
- Calories: 170
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Net Carbs: 1g
Note: Values will vary depending on the cheese and type of pepperoni used (turkey versions are leaner, for example). Always check the specific brands for the most accurate counts.
What’s Your Twist on These Crisps?
Tried the recipe? I’d love to hear how it went!
Did you:
- Use a bold cheese like gouda or pepper jack?
- Add a pickle slice or jalapeño for a kick?
- Find the perfect dip pairing?
Drop your version in the comments below, tag me on social, or share your photos with the hashtag #CrispyPepperoniLove—I feature reader recreations every month!
Your creativity helps this recipe evolve, and I’m always excited to try your unique takes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cheese goes with pepperoni?
Pepperoni pairs beautifully with mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, and monterey jack. For something more gourmet, try asiago or gouda for a deeper, nuttier flavor. The key is using a cheese that melts well and can crisp up without burning.
Is pepperoni and cheese a good keto snack?
Absolutely! Both pepperoni and cheese are low in carbs and high in fat and protein—perfect for keto. Just make sure your pepperoni has no added sugars or fillers. These crisps typically contain only 1g net carbs per serving.
How do you make pepperoni cheese pickle chips?
Easy! Just place a thin pickle slice between the pepperoni and cheese before baking. The result? A tangy, salty, crunchy bite that’s totally addictive. Make sure to pat the pickles dry with a paper towel first to avoid sogginess.
Is cheese, pepperoni, and crackers healthy?
It depends on your goals. While cheese and pepperoni are high in protein and fat, traditional crackers are often high in refined carbs. For a healthier option, use almond flour crackers, seed crisps, or skip the crackers altogether and enjoy these baked crisps instead.
After a salty snack like these crisps, treat yourself with a slice of our pecan cream pie.