Description
Keto Pepperoni Cheese Crisps are a quick and easy low-carb snack perfect for satisfying cravings without the carbs. Made with mozzarella, Parmesan, and chopped pepperoni, these crispy, cheesy bites are seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic powder, then baked to golden perfection. Ideal for snacking, topping salads, or pairing with your favorite dips.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Pepperoni
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, chopped
Additional Seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Other
- Parchment paper (for baking)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the crisps.
- Mix Cheeses and Seasonings: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, if using, to enhance flavor, then stir well.
- Prepare Pepperoni: Chop 1/2 cup pepperoni slices into smaller pieces to evenly distribute in the crisps.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped pepperoni to the cheese mixture. If desired, sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Form Crisps: Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop portions of the cheese and pepperoni mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten Mixture: Gently press down on each scoop to flatten them slightly, helping them bake evenly and become crunchy.
- Bake Crisps: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the crisps are golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Cool on Sheet: Remove from the oven and allow the crisps to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to set and crisp up further.
- Transfer to Rack: Carefully move the crisps to a wire cooling rack to prevent sogginess and maintain crispness.
- Serve: Enjoy the cheese crisps as a crunchy snack or pair them with your favorite low-carb dip for extra flavor.
- Alternate Uses: Use the crisps as a crunchy topping for salads or soups to add texture and taste.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Re-crisp in the oven if needed before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated to get the crisps nice and crispy.
- Watch the crisps closely towards the end of baking to prevent burning, as ovens vary.
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- Use parchment paper to guarantee easy release and less cleanup.
- These crisps are best served fresh but can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
