Pin It 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 always gets compliments when I bring it to gatherings and it’s super quick to prepare.
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 2&ndash3 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.
Pin It My family enjoys gathering around the table sharing these flavorful bites especially during game nights.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, oven broiler, oven mitts
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (crackers), Milk (cheese), Pork (pepperoni). Always verify ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 80, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 5 g, Protein 4 g
Pin It
Serve these bites warm and fresh for best taste and texture.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of crackers work best?
Square saltine or butter crackers offer a crisp base that holds up well under the pepperoni and cheese.
- → Can I make these spicy?
Yes, try 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 2–3 minutes until the cheese bubbles and the pepperoni edges begin to crisp without burning.
- → Are there any good garnish options?
Chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes add freshness and subtle heat.
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?
Turkey pepperoni or gluten-free crackers work well for lighter or allergen-friendly variations.