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 stack is my go-to when I need a fast crowd-pleaser that's both satisfying and effortless 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 2–3 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 Serving these bites has brought smiles at every family gathering since I first made them.
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
Save These easy bites combine convenience and flavor for a snack that’s always a hit.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of crackers work best for this dish?
Square crackers such as saltines or butter crackers provide a crisp base that holds the toppings well without overpowering flavors.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Mozzarella melts beautifully for a gooey topping, but you can add grated Parmesan for extra flavor or try mild cheeses that melt easily.
- → How do I make these bites spicy?
Use hot pepperoni or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes before broiling to add a spicy kick.
- → Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Substitute the crackers with gluten-free varieties to accommodate gluten sensitivities without changing the preparation.
- → What’s the best method to broil without burning?
Place the rack about 6 inches from the broiler, watch carefully, and broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese bubbles and edges crisp.