Crispy 2 Ingredient Pizza Chips

This hearty 2 Ingredient Pizza Chips recipe has been my weeknight savior countless times when pizza cravings strike but I need something quick and carb-conscious. The simplicity is almost magical—just two ingredients transform into crispy, cheesy bites that deliver all the pizza flavor without the fuss of dough.

I first created these during a late night craving when my pantry was nearly empty. What started as desperation has turned into our family's most requested appetizer for movie nights and game days.

Ingredients

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Look for finely shredded varieties that melt evenly and create those crispy lacy edges when baked. Freshly grated works best for optimal meltability and flavor.
• Pepperoni Slices: Choose standard thickness slices rather than thick cut for the perfect crunch. The natural oils in pepperoni help create that perfect crispy texture while infusing the cheese with classic pizza flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This temperature is crucial for creating the perfect balance of melty cheese and crispy edges without burning. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Arrange the Pepperoni:

Lay out pepperoni slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Leave about half an inch between pieces to allow heat circulation and ensure even crisping around the edges. This spacing prevents the chips from becoming one large mass as the cheese melts.

Add the Cheese:

Sprinkle a generous pinch of shredded mozzarella onto each pepperoni slice. Cover the entire surface but avoid excessive mounding as this can prevent proper crisping. The cheese will melt and spread slightly during baking.

Bake:

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch carefully in the final minutes as the transition from perfectly golden to overdone happens quickly. The cheese should bubble and develop golden brown edges while the pepperoni curls slightly.

Cool and Serve:

Remove from oven and allow to cool for 3 to 5 minutes directly on the baking sheet. This cooling period is essential as it allows the chips to firm up and develop their signature crunch. Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy while still warm.

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The pepperoni is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered through multiple tests that the natural fats in pepperoni create the perfect crispy base while infusing the cheese with that unmistakable pizza flavor we all crave. My husband now requests these instead of traditional chips for our weekend football gatherings.

Flavor Variations

Italian Herb Edition

Sprinkle dried Italian seasoning blend over the cheese before baking for an herbal dimension. The aromatic herbs toast slightly in the oven creating a fragrant snack reminiscent of gourmet pizza. A light dusting of garlic powder adds another layer of authentic pizza parlor flavor.

Spicy Lover Version

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before baking or a light dusting of cayenne pepper for heat seekers. The spice integrates with the natural oils in the pepperoni creating a warming kick throughout each bite. This variation pairs exceptionally well with cool dipping sauces.

Supreme Pizza Style

Add finely minced bell peppers and onions on top of the cheese before baking. The vegetables will roast and intensify in flavor creating a supreme pizza experience in chip form. Chop the vegetables extremely fine to ensure they cook properly in the short baking time.

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Serving Suggestions

These crispy pizza chips shine on their own but become even more impressive when served with complementary dips. Warm marinara sauce creates the complete pizza experience while ranch dressing offers a cooling contrast to the savory chips. For a more substantial appetizer spread add olives pickled vegetables and sliced fresh mozzarella alongside.

Consider serving these at your next gathering arranged on a wooden board with small bowls of different dipping options. They maintain their crunch for about an hour at room temperature making them practical for entertaining. For casual weeknight snacking simply pull them straight from the oven and enjoy their warm cheesy perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cheese for these chips?

Yes, you can experiment with other shredded cheeses like cheddar or parmesan for unique flavors and textures.

→ Do I need parchment paper for baking?

Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier, but you can also use a silicone baking mat.

→ How can I make these chips spicier?

Add a pinch of chili flakes or use spicy pepperoni slices for an extra kick of heat.

→ Can I make these chips in advance?

Yes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these chips?

Try marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.

→ How do I keep the chips crispy after baking?

Let the chips cool completely before storing them in a container lined with parchment paper to maintain their crispiness.