Low Carb Pepperoni Bites: A Delicious Keto-Friendly Snack
If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet and craving something flavorful and satisfying, Low Carb Pepperoni Bites are the perfect solution. These little bites are packed with protein, healthy fats, and all the savory flavors you crave without the carbs. Whether you’re following a ketogenic lifestyle or simply looking for a snack that won’t derail your progress, these bites are sure to become a favorite in your rotation.
The best part? You can customize them to suit your preferences, and they are quick to prepare! These Low Carb Pepperoni Bites are perfect for parties, a quick lunch, or even an easy snack to keep on hand when you’re in the mood for something savory.
For more about ketogenic diets and tips on healthy eating, check out this article on the keto diet and explore more low-carb recipes at Eat This Not That’s low-carb section.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
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Low Carb Pepperoni Bites
- Total Time: 15-17 minutes
- Yield: 20 bites (2 bites per pepperoni slice folded) 1x
Description
These Low Carb Pepperoni Bites are a simple and savory keto-friendly snack that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings. Made with just a few ingredients, they are loaded with flavor and offer the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy pepperoni. These bites are great as a quick snack, appetizer, or even a party treat!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 40 pepperoni slices
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tbsp Everything but the Bagel seasoning
Optional Add-Ins:
- Keto-friendly marinara sauce (for dipping)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
- Grated parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Lay the pepperoni slices flat on the baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- In a medium-sized bowl, soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature or microwaving it for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stir the cream cheese and Everything but the Bagel seasoning together until well combined.
- Spoon a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pepperoni slice.
- Carefully fold the pepperoni in half, over the cream cheese, to form a bite-sized pocket.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the pepperoni edges are crispy and the cream cheese filling is slightly melted.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
- If desired, serve with keto-friendly marinara sauce for dipping, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat, or a dusting of grated parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with other seasoning blends, such as Italian seasoning or garlic powder, to customize the flavor.
- These pepperoni bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the pepperoni gets more crispy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Keto, Low-Carb
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Keto, Low-Carb, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Low Carb Pepperoni Bites
Instructions:
- Prepare the pepperoni: Lay out the pepperoni slices on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil, and then set them aside.
- Mix the filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Everything But the Bagel seasoning. Stir until well combined, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
- Assemble the bites: Lay one slice of pepperoni flat on a clean surface. Add about a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of the pepperoni slice.
- Fold the pepperoni: Gently fold the pepperoni in half around the cream cheese mixture, forming a bite-sized pocket. Repeat with the remaining pepperoni slices and cream cheese mixture.
- Serve: Once all the bites are assembled, they’re ready to eat! For extra flavor, dip them in keto-friendly marinara sauce, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or dust with grated parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your Low Carb Pepperoni Bites immediately, or follow the tips below for advanced techniques and storage suggestions.
Advanced Techniques
While the basic recipe is simple and quick, you can enhance the flavor and texture of your Low Carb Pepperoni Bites with a few advanced techniques. These tips will elevate your bites and allow you to customize them even more.
Baking the Bites:
For a crispy, oven-baked version of your Low Carb Pepperoni Bites, try this technique:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- After assembling the bites with the cream cheese mixture, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the pepperoni becomes crispy and the cream cheese filling is golden and slightly bubbly.
This method gives you a crunchy, satisfying snack with the added benefit of baking the pepperoni, making them extra crispy without additional oil.
Adding Spices and Flavors:
You can easily customize your Low Carb Pepperoni Bites by adding different spices or ingredients to the cream cheese mixture:
- Add garlic powder or onion powder to the cream cheese for an additional layer of flavor.
- Mix in some finely chopped herbs, like parsley, basil, or oregano, to give your bites a fresh, herbaceous twist.
- Try different seasonings like smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra depth.
Adding Veggies:
For an added crunch and texture, finely chop vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini and mix them into the cream cheese mixture. This will give your Low Carb Pepperoni Bites an extra bite of freshness while still keeping them low-carb.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
One of the best things about Low Carb Pepperoni Bites is that they store well, making them perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to keep them fresh and maintain their delicious taste:
Storage:
- Store any leftover Low Carb Pepperoni Bites in an airtight container.
- Keep them refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve baked them, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for the best texture.
Freezing:
If you want to prepare them in bulk and freeze some for later:
- Assemble the bites as directed but don’t bake them yet.
- Arrange the assembled bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the bites to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- When you’re ready to eat, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.
Shelf Life:
In the fridge, these Low Carb Pepperoni Bites can last up to 4 days. If frozen, they can last for up to 2 months. Be sure to check for any changes in smell, texture, or appearance before eating.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
While this recipe is already keto-friendly, there are several ways to adapt it to suit other dietary needs or preferences. Here are some substitutions:
Dairy-Free Adaptation:
If you follow a dairy-free diet, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Many brands offer cashew-based or almond-based cream cheeses, which are perfect for this recipe.
Paleo-Friendly Option:
For a paleo-friendly version, replace the cream cheese with an avocado-based cream mixture or cashew cream. You can also skip the Everything But the Bagel seasoning and make your own blend with herbs and seeds that comply with the paleo guidelines.
Vegetarian Version:
While the main ingredient in this recipe is pepperoni, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the pepperoni with plant-based pepperoni or even slices of zucchini or eggplant. Bake or grill the vegetable slices to get that crispy texture.
Low-Sodium Adaptation:
If you’re on a low-sodium diet, try using reduced-sodium pepperoni or even turkey pepperoni. You can also create your own seasoning blend for the cream cheese to cut down on salt.
FAQs About The Recipe
Can I use regular pepperoni instead of turkey pepperoni?
Yes, you can use regular pepperoni if you prefer, but keep in mind that it may have a higher fat content. Choose according to your dietary needs.
How do I make these bites spicier?
If you like heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture. You can also try using spicy pepperoni for an extra kick.
Can I make these bites in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the Low Carb Pepperoni Bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. They can be eaten cold or reheated, depending on your preference.
What can I serve with these bites?
These bites are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with keto-friendly dipping sauces, such as ranch, blue cheese dressing, or sugar-free marinara sauce.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Low Carb Pepperoni Bites are an irresistible snack or appetizer that’s perfect for anyone on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. They’re easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for the week, or simply need a quick snack, these bites are sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
With the ability to modify ingredients and preparation techniques, you can make these bites your own. Enjoy them fresh, baked, or frozen for later, and don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and fillings to suit your taste.
If you’re looking for a low-carb snack that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, Low Carb Pepperoni Bites should be at the top of your list!