Pepperoni Cheese Chips (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 ½ cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
02 - ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
03 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
04 - ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
05 - ¼ teaspoon onion powder
06 - ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
07 - ½ cup mini pepperoni slices or chopped pepperoni
08 - 2 tablespoons pizza sauce or marinara sauce (optional for drizzling)

→ Optional Toppings

09 - Crumbled cooked bacon
10 - Chopped black olives
11 - Diced bell peppers
12 - Sliced jalapeños
13 - Dried oregano or basil for garnish

→ For Dipping

14 - Marinara sauce
15 - Garlic butter
16 - Ranch dressing
17 - Spicy aioli

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
02 - Combine shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. Toss to evenly coat the cheese with seasonings.
03 - Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon portions of the cheese mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing at least 2 inches apart. Flatten each mound slightly with the back of a spoon.
04 - Top each cheese mound with one or two mini pepperoni slices. Optionally press in additional toppings like diced bell peppers or olives to adhere before baking.
05 - Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes until edges turn golden brown and cheese bubbles. Monitor closely near the end to avoid burning.
06 - Remove from oven and allow chips to cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to firm up and become crisp.
07 - Serve warm or at room temperature alongside preferred dipping sauces such as marinara, garlic butter, ranch, or spicy aioli.

# Notes:

01 - For a crispier texture, allow the chips to cool completely on a rack before serving.
02 - Alternative cooking methods include air fryer (5–6 minutes at 375°F/190°C) or microwave (1–2 minutes) for quicker preparation.