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 simple appetizer quickly became a favorite at our gatherings thanks to its easy assembly and delicious flavor.
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 2–3 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 Making this snack always brings smiles around the table as everyone enjoys the crispy flavorful bites together.
Notes
For a spicy kick, use hot pepperoni or add a dash of hot sauce before broiling. Excellent paired with a crisp white wine or light lager.
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.
Save This appetizer is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Cooking Questions
- → What type of crackers work best?
Use sturdy square crackers like saltines or butter crackers that can hold toppings without becoming soggy.
- → Can I make this snack spicy?
Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes or substitute with hot pepperoni slices before broiling for an extra kick.
- → How long should I broil the bites?
Broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts and pepperoni edges start to crisp, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- → Are there alternative toppings suggested?
Optional grated Parmesan adds flavor, and fresh parsley offers a bright finishing touch to complement the rich toppings.
- → Can this be adapted for dietary needs?
Substitute gluten-free crackers and turkey pepperoni to suit gluten sensitivities or lighter preferences.