Pepperoni's Perfect Cheese Pairing: Spicy, Savory, And Delicious!

There are many types of cheese that go well with pepperoni. Some people suggest sharp cheddar, especially if it is at a similar price point to your pepperoni. Others recommend mozzarella, or really any Italian cheese. If you're looking for a keto-friendly option, you can try making pepperoni cheese crisps with a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. If you're looking for something smoother in taste and softer in texture, you might want to try brie.

Mozzarella and cheddar cheese crisps

To make mozzarella and cheddar cheese crisps, you will need just two simple ingredients: grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese. The key to achieving the perfect crisp lies in the type of cheese you choose. Opt for old cheddar cheese, as it crisps up beautifully without becoming too greasy. As for mozzarella, its stretchy, melty nature provides an ideal contrast to the crispiness of the cheddar.

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a muffin tin with non-stick spray or use a non-stick muffin tin for easier removal later. Place one slice of pepperoni in the bottom of each cup, creating a delicious base for your crisps.

Now, it's time to add the cheese! Sprinkle the grated cheese over the pepperoni, ensuring it is evenly distributed and doesn't stick up or spill over the sides of the tin. Gently flatten the cheese to ensure it bakes evenly.

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for approximately 8 minutes. Keep a close eye on your crisps to avoid overcooking. You'll know they're ready when the edges turn a dark golden brown, while the centre remains slightly soft.

Once done, remove the tin from the oven and allow the crisps to cool for at least 5 minutes. This step is crucial, as it lets the cheese set and attain the perfect crispiness. Finally, gently remove the crisps from the tin and transfer them to a plate.

These mozzarella and cheddar cheese crisps are a delightful snack, perfect for movie nights or get-togethers with friends and family. They are also an excellent low-carb alternative to potato chips, ensuring you stay satisfied without the extra carbs. Enjoy the crispy, chewy texture and the burst of flavours from the combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and pepperoni.

Sharp cheddar

While some people suggest that sharp cheddar doesn't go well with pepperoni, others disagree and say that they like really sharp cheddar with their pepperoni. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference, and you may need to experiment with different cheeses to find the perfect pairing for your taste buds.

Blue cheeses

When choosing a blue cheese to pair with pepperoni, there are a few varieties to consider. Firstly, there's the aforementioned gorgonzola, an Italian blue cheese that tends to be creamy and slightly sweet, with a less intense flavour than some other blue cheeses. This can make it a good choice for those who find other blue cheeses too overpowering. Another option is to go for a classic English blue cheese, such as Stilton or Shropshire Blue. These cheeses tend to have a stronger, sharper flavour that can stand up to the spiciness of the pepperoni. Finally, there are French blue cheeses, such as Roquefort, which is protected by law to only be made from the milk of Lacaune sheep and can only be produced in certain regions of France. French blue cheeses tend to be salty and crumbly, with a strong flavour that can add a real punch to your pepperoni pairing.

When pairing blue cheese with pepperoni, consider the other elements of your dish as well. Blue cheese often pairs well with sweet accompaniments, such as honey or fruit, which can help to balance out the saltiness of the cheese and the spiciness of the pepperoni. You might also want to consider a beverage pairing; a bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah, can stand up to the strong flavours of blue cheese and pepperoni, while a craft beer, such as an IPA or a stout, can also be a great match.

In terms of specific blue cheese and pepperoni combinations, you could create a delicious charcuterie board with sliced pepperoni, chunks of gorgonzola, fresh and dried fruits, nuts, and crackers. Alternatively, you could make a panini with sliced pepperoni, crumbled blue cheese, and a drizzle of honey on a crusty roll. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try making your own pepperoni and blue cheese pizza, adding some fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a sweet and savoury pie.

Remember, when choosing a blue cheese, consider the intensity of flavour that you're looking for and don't be afraid to ask for recommendations or samples at your local cheese shop or deli counter.

Soft and smooth cheeses

When it comes to soft and smooth cheeses to pair with pepperoni, there are several options that spring to mind. Firstly, mozzarella is a classic Italian cheese that works well with pepperoni. Its soft and stretchy texture and mild flavour make it a versatile choice that won't overwhelm the pepperoni.

Another option is Monterey Jack, a semi-soft cheese with a creamy texture and a mild, buttery flavour. It can be found with or without peppers, which will add a spicy kick to your pepperoni pairing. If you're feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for an extra spicy bite.

For a truly smooth and creamy experience, Brie is an excellent choice. Its rich, buttery flavour and soft texture will provide a delightful contrast to the sharper, meatier flavour of the pepperoni.

If you're a fan of blue cheese, Gorgonzola is a soft and creamy option that pairs surprisingly well with pepperoni. Its strong flavour will stand up to the spice of the pepperoni, creating a bold and memorable flavour combination.

Lastly, for a more unique option, consider goat cheese. Its soft and crumbly texture and tangy flavour can provide an interesting contrast to the savoury, spicy notes of the pepperoni.

So, there you have it! A variety of soft and smooth cheeses to choose from that will perfectly complement the flavour and texture of pepperoni.

Provolone

For those looking for a simple snack, provolone can be sliced and served with pepperoni and crackers. Its mild flavour won't overwhelm the other components, and its semi-soft texture is easy to eat. Provolone is also a good choice for those who enjoy a more sophisticated happy hour, pairing well with a cold beer and a game of poker.

Overall, provolone is a versatile and tasty cheese that pairs well with pepperoni. Its mild flavour, smooth texture, and melting capabilities make it a popular choice for snacks, appetizers, and meals.

Frequently asked questions