Ah, pepperoni – the classic pizza topping that never goes out of style. Whether you’re a fan of traditional thin-crust pies or prefer your pepperoni in creative forms like stuffed bread or quesadillas, there’s no denying the allure of this spicy, savory delight. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 mouth-watering pepperoni recipes that will satisfy even the most ardent pizza lovers.
From classic combinations to bold and innovative twists, our list features everything from Pepperoni and Mushroom Pizza to Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick or prefer your pepperoni mellow, there’s something for everyone in this comprehensive collection. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these 20 deliciously different pepperoni recipes!
Pepperoni and Mushroom Pizza
A classic combination of flavors, this pepperoni and mushroom pizza is a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 12 slices pepperoni
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top the sauce with sliced mushrooms and pepperoni slices.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pepperoni Stromboli
Stromboli is a classic Italian-American dish that combines the flavors of pizza and bread. This pepperoni-filled variation is easy to make and perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of active dry yeast
– 2 cups of warm water
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 8 slices of pepperoni
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
6. Arrange pepperoni slices on one half of the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
7. Fold the other half of the dough over the pepperoni, pressing gently to seal.
8. Brush with water and sprinkle with parsley.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pepperoni Garlic Knots
A flavorful twist on classic garlic knots, these bite-sized treats combine the savory taste of pepperoni with the aromatic warmth of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 package pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
4. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
5. Brush the garlic mixture onto each piece of dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Place 2-3 pepperoni slices on top of the garlic mixture.
7. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form knots.
8. Place knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pepperoni Calzone
Elevate your pizza game with this classic Italian-inspired calzone recipe, filled with melted mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 8-10 slices of pepperoni
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped onions, bell peppers, mushrooms
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Place 2-3 slices of pepperoni in the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges to seal.
6. Brush the top with olive oil and season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pepperoni and Cheese Stuffed Bread
A classic comfort food, this Pepperoni and Cheese Stuffed Bread is perfect for a satisfying snack or meal. With its gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and soft bread, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (about 12 inches long)
– 8 slices of pepperoni
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise.
3. Lay the pepperoni slices on one half of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the pepperoni.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese.
6. Place the other half of the bread on top to form a sandwich.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Dip
Bring the flavors of your favorite pizza party to your next gathering with this easy and delicious pepperoni pizza dip!
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 ounce) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until well combined.
3. Add the chopped pepperoni, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper to the bowl and stir until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake
A twist on traditional pasta bakes, this recipe combines the flavors of pizza with a comforting pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
4. Add pepperoni slices and chopped parsley to the pasta mixture. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Add the pasta mixture and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Satisfy your pizza cravings with these easy-to-make pepperoni pizza rolls that are perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup of marinara sauce
– 8-10 slices of pepperoni
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the sauce, slightly overlapping each other.
5. Brush the edges of the dough with olive oil and fold the dough over the filling to form a roll.
6. Place the rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pepperoni and Olive Flatbread
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying flatbread recipe, loaded with spicy pepperoni and savory olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 slices pepperoni
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, olive oil, and salt to the bowl; mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl; cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough; roll out into a thin sheet.
7. Top the flatbread with pepperoni slices and green olives.
8. Sprinkle with black pepper; bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
These bite-sized pizza sliders are perfect for parties, snacks, or game-day gatherings. With a crispy crust and gooey pepperoni topping, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini hamburger buns
– 1 cup of pizza sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 12 slices of pepperoni
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine pizza sauce and a pinch of salt.
3. Split the mini hamburger buns in half and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread about 1/2 tsp of pizza sauce on each bun half.
5. Top each bun half with shredded mozzarella cheese and a few slices of pepperoni.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Pepperoni Pizza Sliders!
Pepperoni and Jalapeño Pizza
This recipe combines the classic flavors of pepperoni pizza with the bold kick of jalapeños, creating a unique and delicious fusion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this spicy masterpiece at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust
– 12 slices pepperoni
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust and place on a baking sheet.
3. Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add sliced jalapeños on top of the pepperoni.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the peppers.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Transform your favorite pizza into a comforting casserole perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. This recipe combines the flavors of pepperoni, melted mozzarella, and savory tomato sauce with pasta and breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 12 slices pepperoni
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and cooked spaghetti. Mix well.
4. In a separate pan, toast breadcrumbs in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the pasta mixture. Top with pepperoni slices, then sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese evenly.
6. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this classic combination of pepperoni and sausage, perfectly balanced for a flavorful and satisfying meal. This recipe yields a deliciously cheesy pie that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 8-10 slices pepperoni
– 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread half of the mozzarella cheese on dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange pepperoni slices and Italian sausage on top of cheese.
5. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the toppings.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snacking game with this creative take on stuffed peppers, featuring pepperoni pizza goodness inside bell peppers. Perfect for game days or quick meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 8 slices pepperoni
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with pizza sauce, pepperoni slices, and mozzarella cheese.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Top each pepper with Parmesan cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pepperoni and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on traditional stuffed shells. The combination of savory pepperoni and creamy ricotta cheese will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 6 slices pepperoni, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, and chopped pepperoni. Mix well.
4. Add beaten egg and mix until smooth.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Top with marinara sauce and remaining mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with this unique recipe that combines the flavors of pepperoni pizza and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 8-10 slices pepperoni, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Arrange 2-3 slices of pepperoni on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Pepperoni and Spinach Pizza
Satisfy your cravings with this classic combination of savory pepperoni and nutritious spinach on a crispy pizza crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz pepperoni slices
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone, topped with olive oil.
4. Spread chopped spinach evenly across the dough, leaving a small border.
5. Arrange pepperoni slices on top of spinach.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pepperoni.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Breadsticks
Elevate your snack game with this easy recipe for pepperoni pizza breadsticks, perfect for movie nights or sporting events. These crispy, cheesy treats combine the flavors of pizza and breadsticks in one delicious package.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (about 12 inches long)
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 6-8 slices of pepperoni
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the Italian bread into 12 equal pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese.
4. Dip each breadstick piece into the sauce mixture, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top each breadstick with a slice of pepperoni.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the breadsticks and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pepperoni and Bacon Pizza
A classic combination of flavors comes together in this simple and delicious pizza recipe. With a crispy crust, savory pepperoni, and smoky bacon, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or dough
– 12 slices of pepperoni
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust or shape the dough into a circle.
3. Spread the mozzarella cheese evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
5. Add the cooked bacon slices on top of the pepperoni.
6. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pizza.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this surprising fusion of flavors, combining the comfort of melted cheese and crispy bread with the savory taste of pepperoni pizza.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 4-6 slices of pepperoni
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by 2-3 slices of pepperoni.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 20 delicious pepperoni recipes! From classic pizza favorites to creative twists and international inspirations, there’s something for every pepperoni lover. Try your hand at making Pepperoni and Mushroom Pizza, or go bold with Pepperoni and Jalapeño Pizza. Or maybe you’d prefer a snackable option like Pepperoni Pizza Rolls or a comforting casserole like Pepperoni Pizza Casserole? Whatever your craving, this list has got you covered.