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These mini pepperoni cheese chips are a deliciously crispy and cheesy snack that comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for game nights or casual gatherings, they combine melty mozzarella and spicy mini pepperoni slices baked until golden in a mini muffin pan. Serve them warm with a bit of marinara sauce for dipping to impress your guests or satisfy your snack cravings.
I first made these for a spontaneous family movie night and they became a weekly favorite. The kids love grabbing handfuls while watching their shows and everyone appreciates the balance of cheesy and spicy in every bite.
Ingredients
- Low moisture shredded mozzarella cheese: provides the perfect melt and crispy edges choose quality to avoid excess moisture that can make chips soggy
- Mini pepperoni slices: deliver a spicy, savory punch look for slices with vibrant color and moderate oiliness for the best flavor and texture
- Optional Italian seasoning: adds a fresh herbal note that brightens the overall flavor use a quality blend or create your own with dried oregano and basil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius). Thoroughly grease 16 cups of a mini muffin pan with oil or cooking spray to ensure the chips can be removed easily after baking.
- Assemble the Chips:
- Place 2 teaspoons of shredded mozzarella cheese into each greased muffin cup. Gently press the cheese to fill the bottom evenly and create a uniform base. Then arrange three mini pepperoni slices overlapping slightly on top of the cheese for balanced flavor.
- Add a Flavor Twist:
- Sprinkle a small pinch of Italian seasoning on each cup to enhance the classic pizza flavors. This step is optional but highly recommended for a fresh, herbal lift to the snack.
- Bake:
- Carefully place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 8 minutes. Watch the chips closely checking for dark golden brown edges indicating crispiness. The cheese should look caramelized and crispy around the sides.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the chips to cool in the pan for a few minutes so they firm up and become easier to remove. Serve warm on their own or paired with marinara sauce for dipping to turn them into a shareable appetizer.
My favorite part is the crispy, caramelized cheese edges that add texture and flavor contrast to the spicy pepperoni. Making these chips always reminds me of cozy family nights filled with laughter and simple homemade treats.
Storage Tips
Leftover chips keep well for up to two days in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain crispiness reheat in a hot oven rather than a microwave which can cause sogginess. Freeze extra chips in freezersafe containers with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try using cheddar or provolone cheese for a different flavor profile. Instead of mini pepperoni you could use small slices of salami or chorizo for another spicy variation. If Italian seasoning is not on hand dried oregano or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes work well for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chips warm with a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, or sprinkle them over salads or soups as a crunchy topping just before serving. Pairing with fresh veggies or a crisp salad balances the richness of the cheese and pepperoni.
Quick to make and endlessly shareable, these mini pepperoni cheese chips are an easy crowd pleaser. Theyre perfect for movie nights and last minute gatherings.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What cheese works best for these chips?
Low moisture shredded mozzarella is ideal for its excellent melting and crispy edge formation. Provolone or cheddar can be used for different flavor profiles.
- → Can regular pepperoni be used instead of mini slices?
Yes, but slicing regular pepperoni smaller helps maintain balance in each bite and ensures even cooking and texture.
- → How do I prevent the chips from burning?
Keep a close eye on baking and remove the chips once edges are golden brown. Using a mini muffin pan helps contain the cheese and toppings effectively.
- → What seasoning enhances the flavor best?
Italian seasoning adds a fresh herbal note, but garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes can provide additional depth and spice.
- → What is the best way to serve these chips?
Allow chips to cool briefly before removing from the pan. Serve them warm, alone or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.