These Cheesy Pepperoni Bites are small, tasty snacks packed with gooey cheese and loaded with pepperoni. Perfect for movie nights or just when you’re feeling snacky!
You won’t believe how easy they are to make! Just mix a few ingredients, bake, and enjoy. I can’t resist grabbing a handful—who can say no to cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese adds that classic gooey texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat version, part-skim mozzarella works well too. For a twist, you can mix in some pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings great flavor. If you want something milder, try using Monterey Jack instead. You could also use a vegan cheese if you’re following a dairy-free diet.
Mini Pepperoni: These bite-sized pieces are great for flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey pepperoni or veggie pepperoni can be a tasty alternative. You can also swap it for diced ham or cooked sausage.
All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour is perfect, but whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and make the bites a bit heartier. If gluten-free is your goal, a gluten-free blend works as well.
Garlic Powder & Oregano: These spices boost flavor. If you’re out, fresh minced garlic and Italian seasoning can do the trick. Just adjust to your taste!
How Do I Get the Cheesy Bites to Cook Evenly?
Ensuring your Cheesy Pepperoni Bites come out perfectly golden and cooked through is key. Here’s how you can do it:
- Preheat the Oven: Always preheat your oven properly so that your bites cook evenly from the start.
- Use a Mini Muffin Tin: This helps each bite hold its shape and ensures they bake evenly. Don’t skip the greasing step!
- Do Not Overfill: Fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full. This gives the bites room to rise without spilling over.
- Check for Doneness: After 15 minutes, start checking if they’re golden and firm to the touch. If not, give them a few more minutes.
Happy baking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (or chopped regular pepperoni)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15–18 minutes for baking. Overall, you’ll have these cheesy pepperoni bites ready to enjoy in about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick snack or party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the bites release easily after baking.
2. Combine the Cheeses:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Give it a good stir so they’re nicely mixed together.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, oregano, and salt. This will ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and spices.
4. Blend the Mixtures:
Add the dry ingredients to the cheese mixture and stir until everything is well combined. It’s okay if the mixture is a little lumpy; just try to avoid any dry pockets of flour.
5. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until fully combined. This is our wet ingredient mixture that will help everything stick together.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the egg and milk mixture into the cheese and flour mixture. Stir until everything is incorporated—this should create a thick, cheesy batter.
7. Fold in the Pepperoni:
Carefully fold the mini pepperoni slices into the batter. Make sure they’re evenly distributed so each bite has that delicious flavor!
8. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the mixture into the mini muffin tin compartments, filling each about 3/4 full. This allows them room to rise and bake nicely.
9. Add Toppings:
If you want an extra cheesy kick, sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each bite.
10. Bake to Perfection:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be cooked through. You can check by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
11. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, take the bites out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes in the pan. Then, carefully remove each bite and place them on a serving platter.
12. Garnish and Serve:
For the finishing touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. They’re fantastic as an appetizer or snack!
Enjoy these irresistible cheesy bites with gooey melted centers and flavorful pepperoni—perfect for sharing or snacking!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar provide a great flavor and texture, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for some heat or gouda for a unique twist. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well!
Can I Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply spoon it into the muffin tin and bake as directed. Freshly baked bites are always the best, but this is a great option for busy days!
How Should I Store Leftover Bites?
Store any leftover cheesy pepperoni bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or pop them in the microwave for a quick snack!
Can I Freeze Cheesy Pepperoni Bites?
Yes, you can freeze these bites! Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.