Crispy Pizza Chips are like your favorite pizza turned into a crunchy, bite-sized snack. Think of all the best pizza flavors—melty cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of herbs—packed into little chips that are perfect for munching anytime. They’re golden and crispy, with just the right amount of cheesy goodness in every bite.
I love making these because they’re so easy and fun to share. Whenever I have friends over, I like to put out a big bowl of these chips—everyone always reaches for them first! Plus, they’re a great way to enjoy that pizza flavor without the mess or the need for a plate. I especially enjoy dipping them into extra marinara sauce or a bit of ranch dressing for a little something extra.
These chips are perfect for movie nights, game days, or just when you want a quick and tasty snack. I find that making a big batch ahead of time means I always have a ready-to-go treat. They remind me of those casual hangouts where good food and good company make everything better, and I can’t help but smile every time I pop one in my mouth.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: This is the star for melt and stretch. Use whole milk mozzarella for the best flavor and crispiness. If shredded isn’t handy, you can grate a block yourself. For a dairy-free option, try plant-based mozzarella shreds.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharpness and helps with crisping. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works well, or omit it for a milder chip.
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni adds that classic pizza meat flavor. If you want a vegetarian version, swap with sliced olives or diced bell peppers.
Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder: These give depth and that familiar pizza taste. If you don’t have a mix, just use dried oregano and basil with a pinch of garlic powder.
Marinara Sauce: Perfect for dipping and boosting the flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade. For a twist, try a creamy ranch or garlic aioli dip.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy and Evenly Cooked Pizza Chips?
The key is in spreading and baking the cheese just right to get that crispy, golden texture without burning.
- Flatten the cheese mounds thinly: Making the cheese layer thin lets it melt evenly and crisp up well.
- Space the chips apart: Keep about 2 inches between each so they don’t stick together as they spread in the oven.
- Watch the baking time closely: Check at 6 minutes to avoid burning. Edges should be golden and crispy, while the centers are set.
- Let cool before serving: They crisp further as they rest on the baking sheet after baking. This step is important for the best crunch.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend using a parchment-lined or silicone mat-lined sheet for easy removal and cleanup.
- Measuring spoons – helps portion the cheese evenly for consistent chips.
- Grater – if you’re grating your own cheese, a fine grater works best for melting evenly.
- Spatula or spoon – for gently flattening the cheese mounds before baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mini pepperoni with sliced olives, diced bell peppers, or cooked sausage to customize the flavor.
- Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra spice and smokiness.
- Sprinkle extra herbs like basil, oregano, or even thyme on top after baking for fresh flavor.
- Replace marinara with creamy ranch or garlic aioli for different dipping options.
Crispy Pizza Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Mini pepperoni slices (about 24 small slices)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Fresh chopped parsley or dried parsley flakes for garnish
- Marinara sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing and baking these crispy pizza chips takes about 15 minutes total. It’s a quick snack option with just a few minutes to mix and assemble, followed by 6-8 minutes of baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the chips from sticking and to make cleanup easy.
2. Mix the Cheese and Seasoning:
In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Mix everything well so the flavors are spread evenly.
3. Form Cheese Circles:
Using a tablespoon, scoop small mounds of the cheese mixture and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each mound. Flatten each one gently with the back of the spoon to make thin, round circles.
4. Add Pepperoni:
Place 2-3 mini pepperoni slices on top of each cheese circle. Press down lightly so they stick as the cheese melts.
5. Bake Until Crispy:
Bake the chips in the oven for about 6-8 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the cheese should fully melt, and the edges will turn golden brown and crispy.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pizza chips cool on the sheet for a few minutes. This resting time helps them become extra crispy. Sprinkle fresh or dried parsley flakes on top for a tasty garnish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy pizza chips warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They make a delicious, crunchy snack that’s easy to share!
Can I Make Crispy Pizza Chips Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese mounds in advance and keep them in the fridge until ready to bake. After baking, store the chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for best crunch.
Can I Use Frozen Pepperoni Slices?
It’s best to use fresh mini pepperoni slices. If you only have frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry before placing on the cheese to avoid extra moisture that could affect crispiness.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
For a different flavor, you can try provolone or a mild cheddar, but mozzarella gives the best melt and stretch. Avoid very soft or fresh cheeses like ricotta as they won’t crisp up well.
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza Chips?
Store cooled leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crispy. If they soften, a quick 2-3 minute bake in the oven at 350°F can help them crisp up again.