Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 12 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the fridge.
Quick Answer
These Cheesy Pepperoni Bombs are easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy holiday snack, combining flaky biscuit dough, savory pepperoni, and gooey mozzarella into delightful bites.
When the chill of New York City winter sets in, I find myself drawn into the kitchen, eager to prepare comforting snacks that warm both my heart and home. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, it's the perfect time to whip up a batch of Cheesy Pepperoni Bombs. These little bites of heaven are not just easy to make; they're bursting with flavor and nostalgia, reminding me of cozy family gatherings while I enjoy the festive season.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly comforting snack for chilly winter evenings.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable with various fillings to suit every taste.
- Deliciously gooey and flavorful, they're bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Great for dipping, adding even more flavor to each bite.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make these delightful cheesy pepperoni bombs that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings:
Biscuit Dough
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough (preferably flaky, buttery type)
Pepperoni and Cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices (choose quality pepperoni for enhanced flavor)
- 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (fresh mozzarella for a gooey experience)
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Dipping Sauce
- Marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Bombs (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is simple and a great way to enjoy warm, cheesy snacks that everyone will love.
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This consistent heat is key to achieving a perfect golden-brown finish. Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Ready the Biscuit Dough
Open the biscuit dough and gently separate each biscuit. There's something so satisfying about the way they pop open, ready for filling.
Step 3: Shape the Biscuits
On a clean surface, flatten each biscuit into a small circle about 4-5 inches in diameter. You can use your hands or a rolling pin, whichever you prefer for a smoother finish.
Step 4: Add the Fillings
In the center of each biscuit, place a slice or two of pepperoni and a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese. Remember, more cheese means more gooeyness!
Step 5: Seal the Bombs
Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tight to seal them, making sure there are no holes to keep the cheese contained inside.
Step 6: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the bombs seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow them to puff up as they bake.
Step 7: Season the Tops
Sprinkle the tops of each bomb with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. This will enhance the flavors as they bake.
Step 8: Bake!
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bombs are golden brown. You'll know they're ready when the center feels soft yet firm with a slight jiggle.
Step 9: Serve
Let them cool for a minute or two, then serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the gooey goodness!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not sealing the biscuits properly: This ensures the cheesy goodness doesn't leak out during baking.
- Overfilling the biscuits: A little filling goes a long way-too much can cause them to burst.
- Skipping the preheating: This step is crucial for achieving that golden crust; don't rush it!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with fillings! While pepperoni and mozzarella are classic, try other ingredients like cooked sausage, diced veggies, or even a dollop of pesto.
- Serve them warm. They taste best fresh out of the oven, but you can keep them warm in a low oven until serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a lovely color and flavor just before serving.
Variations
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda.
- Try adding jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate a sauce like barbecue or buffalo instead of marinara.
- Substitute turkey pepperoni for a leaner option.
How to Serve
- Pair with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Offer various dipping sauces for guests to choose from.
- Garnish with herbs or cheese for an appealing presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the bombs and refrigerate before baking for up to 24 hours.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain texture.
- Freezing: Can be frozen before baking. Thaw in the fridge and bake as directed.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While testing these Cheesy Pepperoni Bombs, I realized how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The joy of pulling apart a warm, cheesy bomb never fails to lift my spirits during the colder months. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they truly embody the warmth and comfort of this festive season!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 12 bombs · Serving Size: 1 bomb
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~200 calories · 8g protein · 22g carbs · 10g fat
Recipe by:
Easily Whip Up Cheesy Pepperoni Bombs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Open the biscuit dough and gently separate each biscuit.
- Flatten each biscuit into a small circle about 4-5 inches in diameter.
- In the center of each biscuit, place a slice or two of pepperoni and a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tight to seal them.
- Place the bombs seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Sprinkle the tops of each bomb with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bombs are golden brown.
- Let them cool for a minute or two before serving hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen biscuit dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen biscuit dough. Just make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using it.
2. Can I substitute the pepperoni?
Absolutely! You can substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage, diced ham, or even veggies for a vegetarian option.
3. How do I know when the Cheesy Pepperoni Bombs are done baking?
The bombs are done when they are golden brown on the outside and the center feels soft yet firm with a slight jiggle.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
It's best to serve them fresh out of the oven, but you can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble them just before baking.
5. What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
