Pepperoni Pizza Cups: the great party appetizer recipe everyone will love

These Pepperoni Pizza Cups are perfect for a party appetizer, a quick snack, or even something for the lunchbox. They’re low-carb, keto-friendly…and they are just too cute! Salami is used for the base (which means no carbs in the dough) and adds a crispy texture. Then tomato, cheese, and basil are added for flavor.

You will love these Pepperoni Pizza Cups and your guests will too. You must make them at your next party! All the flavor of pizza—without the carbs—in a single bite. It’s made in a mini muffin tin, which means less work, and easy clean-up.

Pepperoni Pizza Bites Ingredients

Salami or Pepperoni – it makes up a major part of this recipe, so use a high-quality brand.

Tomato sauce – use store-bought or make your own (see below for a homemade recipe).

Cheese – Use mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss cheese; Parmesan can also add a nice cheesy flavor without being too rich.

Herbs – use fresh basil; oregano or Italian seasoning will also work.

How To Make Pepperoni Pizza Cups

Prepare the salami or pepperoni first. This will form the base of the cups. Make 4 cuts into each pepperoni and place into the muffin case forming a cup. Bake for 6 minutes at 200°C/400°F. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a minute.

Add the basil leaf, marinara sauce, and grated cheese, and top each cup with a slice of olive.  Bake for another 6 minutes at 200°C/400°F. Allow to cool a little then serve and enjoy.

Tips For The Best Pepperoni Pizza Bites

Try any of the following meaty add-ins: cooked bacon, Italian sausage, smoked turkey, or anchovies.

Other delicious additions include olives, bell peppers, pineapple, sliced mushrooms, basil pesto, sundried tomato.

How To Store Pepperoni Pizza Cups

Store the leftover Pepperoni Pizza Cups in an airtight container (in the fridge) for up to 3 days.

Reheat them in the Airfryer (to maintain crispiness) for 2 minutes at 350°F or in the oven (using the same temperature) for 5 minutes.

Instructions

Make 4 cuts into each pepperoni or salami slice, making sure to leave an uncut piece in the middle.

Press the meat into the muffin case forming a cup. Bake for 6 minutes at 200°C/400°F. Remove from the oven and cool for a minute.

Add a single basil leaf, a teaspoon of marinara sauce, and grated cheese, and add a slice of olive.

Bake for another 6 minutes at 200°C. Allow to cool a little then serve and enjoy.

Notes

To make your own tomato or pizza sauce, cook together: 1 can chopped tomato, 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 crushed garlic cloves, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 3 tbsp fresh basil, 2 tsp dried oregano (or 2 tbsp fresh oregano), salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is a bit too acidic to your taste, you can add a tsp of sugar.