Description
Keto Pepperoni Cheese Crisps are a delicious, low-carb snack perfect for satisfying your cravings while sticking to a ketogenic diet. Made with a blend of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped pepperoni, these crisps are seasoned with optional Italian herbs, garlic powder, and a touch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Crispy and savory, they’re easy to prepare in under 20 minutes and ideal as a snack or crunchy topping for salads and soups.
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
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Other
- Parchment paper (for baking)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the cheese crisps.
- Mix Cheese and Seasonings: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Add Italian seasoning and garlic powder if using, then mix well to incorporate the flavors.
- Prepare Pepperoni: Chop the pepperoni slices into smaller pieces to evenly distribute throughout the crisps.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped pepperoni and red pepper flakes (if using) to the cheese mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Line Baking Sheet: Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Portion Mixture: Use a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to place even portions of the cheese and pepperoni mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each scoop for spreading.
- Flatten Scoops: Gently press down each scoop to slightly flatten it, shaping them into discs for even baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crisps are golden brown and crispy. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
- Cool on Baking Sheet: Remove the crisps from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to firm up.
- Transfer to Cooling Rack: Carefully move the crisps to a wire cooling rack to allow air circulation, preventing sogginess.
- Serve: Enjoy the crisps as a crunchy snack on their own or paired with your favorite low-carb dips.
- Use as Toppings: Sprinkle the crisps over salads or soups to add texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. To refresh, re-crisp them in the oven before serving again.
Notes
- Feel free to omit optional seasonings if you prefer a simpler flavor.
- Keep an eye on baking time as ovens vary; crisps should be golden and crispy but not burnt.
- These crisps are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness before serving leftovers.
- Use a fine grater for the Parmesan to ensure it melts evenly.
