Ingredients
100–120 large pepperoni slices (about 8–10 ounces)
30–40 whole pepperoncini peppers (mild or medium heat, jarred)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Drain and pat dry the pepperoncini peppers thoroughly with paper towels.
2. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Place about ½ teaspoon of the cheese mixture in the center of a pepperoni slice. Top with one drained pepperoncini. Fold the pepperoni around the filling to form a bundle. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Arrange bundles in a single layer, not touching. Optionally, brush tops lightly with olive oil.
6. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until pepperoni edges are crispy and cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Pro Tips: Dry pepperoncini thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling. Do not overfill—about ½ teaspoon per slice. Use large, thin-cut pepperoni slices. Place seam-side down to prevent unraveling. Watch baking time closely to avoid burning. Best served warm. For air fryer: cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. Storage: store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Variations: try provolone, jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or different cured meats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-Italian fusion
- Diet: gluten-free, keto-friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings (5-6 bites per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg