Pin
These 2-ingredient pizza chips have become my go-to solution for those moments when pizza cravings strike but I don't have the time or energy to make a full pie. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with all the flavors of your favorite slice, they come together in minutes with items you likely already have on hand.
I first made these during a late-night snack emergency when my pantry was nearly empty. What started as a desperate experiment has now become our family's favorite movie night treat. My teenagers actually prefer these crispy bites to delivery pizza.
Ingredients
- Cheese: Choose a good melting variety like cheddar, mozzarella, or a pizza blend. Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly than pre-shredded which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Pepperoni: Look for thinly sliced pepperoni that will crisp nicely. Turkey pepperoni works beautifully if you prefer a lighter option.
How To Make 2-Ingredient Pizza Chips
- Prep the oven:
- Heat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment is crucial as it prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless. Silicone baking mats work well too.
- Create cheese rounds:
- Portion about 1 tablespoon of grated cheese into small mounds on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each mound slightly with the back of a spoon to create thin, even discs. This ensures they'll crisp evenly.
- Add pepperoni:
- Place 1-2 pepperoni slices on top of each cheese mound depending on their size. Press them down gently so they adhere to the cheese as it melts.
- Bake to perfection:
- Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully as the exact time will depend on your oven. You want the edges to turn golden brown and the center to bubble slightly.
- Cool before serving:
- Remove from the oven and allow the chips to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. This cooling time is essential as it allows them to crisp up completely. Transfer to a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
The moment these pizza chips changed everything for me was during a family gathering when my notoriously picky niece devoured an entire batch. The combination of crispy cheese edges with that familiar pepperoni flavor creates the perfect bite that even the most discerning eaters can't resist.
Flavor Variations
While the basic recipe is incredibly satisfying, you can easily customize these chips to mimic your favorite pizza styles. For a supreme version, add tiny bits of green pepper and onion before baking. Buffalo chicken fans can swap the pepperoni for small pieces of cooked chicken and add a light drizzle of hot sauce after baking. My personal favorite variation includes a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes added to the cheese before baking.
Dipping Options
These pizza chips are delicious on their own, but they reach new heights when paired with the right dipping sauce. Warm marinara is the classic choice, creating a deconstructed pizza experience. Ranch dressing offers a cooling contrast to the savory chips, while garlic aioli brings a sophisticated touch that guests always appreciate. For a complete appetizer spread, I serve all three options alongside a batch of freshly baked chips.
Storage Tips
These pizza chips are best enjoyed immediately while they're at their crispiest. However, if you need to make them ahead, allow them to cool completely then store in an airtight container separated by layers of paper towels. They'll keep at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 2-3 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this will make them chewy rather than crispy.
Party Preparation
When making these for a crowd, you can prepare several batches in advance and keep them warm in a low oven (200°F) for up to 30 minutes. For the freshest experience, consider baking half your chips before guests arrive and the remainder halfway through the gathering. The quick cooking time means you won't be stuck in the kitchen, and the aroma of freshly baked cheese chips is guaranteed to draw everyone to the snack table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best for pizza chips?
Shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan are great options as they crisp up nicely when baked. Use a cheese with good melting properties for best results.
- → Can I use other toppings instead of pepperoni?
Absolutely! Try using thinly sliced salami, prosciutto, or even diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.
- → How do I keep the pizza chips crispy?
Let them cool completely on a wire rack after baking. Avoid stacking them until fully cooled to maintain crispiness.
- → Can I make these pizza chips ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven briefly to restore crispiness.
- → Are these chips suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
Yes, they are an excellent low-carb and keto-friendly snack with minimal ingredients and no added carbs.
- → Can I serve these pizza chips with dip?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also pair them with ranch dressing, garlic sauce, or a spicy tomato dip.