Baked Pepperoni Delight

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) thinly sliced pepperoni 1 pound (450g) thinly sliced pepperoni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat) 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat: 32g (Saturated Fat: 13g)
• Carbohydrates: 2g (Sugars: 0g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 2.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the thinly sliced pepperoni to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly crispy.
4. 4.
   In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. 5.
   Place half of the cooked pepperoni in a single layer in a baking dish.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle half of the herb and spice mixture over the pepperoni.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the herbs.
8. 8.
   Repeat the layers with the remaining pepperoni, herb mixture, and cheeses.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pepperoni — Look for thinly sliced pepperoni with a good balance of fat and meat. This will ensure a crispy texture and rich flavor when baked.
• Mozzarella cheese — Opt for fresh mozzarella or low-moisture mozzarella for the best melting and stringy texture.
• Parmesan cheese — Grate the Parmesan cheese just before using to preserve its flavor and prevent clumping.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add extra red pepper flakes to the dish.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina, to customize the flavor profile.
• Serve the Baked Pepperoni Delight with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• If you prefer a crispier crust, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve the Baked Pepperoni Delight as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad and garlic breadsticks. It also makes a fantastic appetizer for parties or game nights.

Presentation advice

Present the Baked Pepperoni Delight in a rustic baking dish, allowing the golden-brown crust and melted cheese to take center stage. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.