Save A quick and irresistible appetizer featuring zesty pepperoni slices layered on crisp square crackers, topped with melty cheese for the perfect snack or party bite.
This appetizer is one of my go-to choices for quick gatherings because it combines ease with bold flavors that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- Crackers: 12 square crackers (such as saltines or butter crackers)
- Pepperoni & Cheese: 24 slices pepperoni, 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Garnish (Optional): 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven broiler to high, positioning a rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the square crackers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 3:
- Place 2 slices of pepperoni on each cracker, overlapping slightly.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle a generous pinch of shredded mozzarella over the pepperoni on each cracker.
- Step 5:
- Optional Top with a light dusting of grated Parmesan.
- Step 6:
- Broil for 23 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted and the pepperoni edges begin to crisp Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Step 7:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired Serve warm.
Save Serving this has become a family classic that always brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Required Tools
Baking sheet parchment paper oven broiler oven mitts
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (crackers) Milk (cheese) Pork (pepperoni) May contain Soy check cracker and pepperoni labels Always verify ingredient labels for allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 80 Total Fat 6 g Carbohydrates 5 g Protein 4 g per serving
Save This simple yet flavorful appetizer is perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of crackers work best?
Square crackers such as saltines or butter crackers provide the perfect crisp base for layering pepperoni and cheese.
- → Can I make these spicier?
Yes, use hot pepperoni or add a dash of hot sauce before broiling to add a spicy kick.
- → How long should I broil the bites?
Broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese bubbles and the pepperoni edges start to crisp, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- → Are there good garnishes to enhance flavor?
Chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes complement the layered flavors beautifully.
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?
Yes, turkey pepperoni and gluten-free crackers can be used for lighter or allergen-friendly options.