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Close-up of crispy, golden beef pepperoni slices arranged on a plate, showcasing the texture and vibrant color.

beef pepperoni

Alexandra
Discover how to make delicious homemade beef pepperoni with our easy recipe. Perfect for snacks, parties, or topping your favorite dishes!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 12 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Beef Pepperoni: This is the star of the show! Choose high-quality beef pepperoni for the best flavor. You can find it pre-sliced at most grocery stores or in specialty stores if you prefer a specific brand or style.
  • Paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the flavor. If you like it spicier you can opt for smoked paprika for an extra kick.
  • Garlic Powder: A classic seasoning that enhances the savory taste of the pepperoni. It brings a warm aromatic touch to each bite.
  • Oregano: This herb gives the dish a hint of Mediterranean flair. Fresh or dried oregano works well in this recipe.
  • Thyme: A subtle herb that complements the boldness of the beef pepperoni. If you’re not a fan of thyme you can substitute it with Italian seasoning.
  • Optional Add-ins:
  • Cheese: Shredded mozzarella or cheddar can be melted on top for a cheesy variation.
  • Olives: For a Mediterranean twist black or green olives are a great addition.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: If you like heat add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Tips for Customizing:
  • Spicy Option: To make this recipe even spicier add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed chili flakes to the seasoning blend.
  • Cheese Lovers: Add shredded cheese and broil for a few minutes to achieve a gooey melty topping.
  • Herb Variations: If you don’t have thyme or oregano on hand basil or rosemary can be a good substitute.

Instructions
 

Preheat Your Oven (or Air Fryer)

  • Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you're using an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your beef pepperoni gets that perfect crispiness.

Season the Pepperoni

  • Place your beef pepperoni slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the slices to help the seasoning stick. Then, sprinkle on the paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme. Feel free to adjust the amount of seasoning depending on how bold you like your flavors.

Bake or Air-Fry the Pepperoni

  • In the Oven: Bake the beef pepperoni for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re crispy and slightly curled at the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
  • In the Air Fryer: Place the beef pepperoni slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6-8 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they’re not getting too crispy.

Optional Add-Ins:

  • If you’re adding cheese or other toppings, sprinkle them over the pepperoni slices about 3 minutes before the end of cooking. Pop them back in the oven or air fryer for a melty, golden finish.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Once your beef pepperoni is crispy and delicious, remove it from the oven or air fryer and let it cool for a minute. You can serve it immediately as a tasty snack, or pair it with crackers, cheese, or your favorite dip.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
    • Fiber: 0g
    • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Cholesterol: 30mg