Bite Pizza Pepper Poppers
Looking for a delicious and simple appetizer to impress your guests? These Bite Pizza Pepper Poppers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering with their combination of spicy peppers and pizza flavors!
Ingredients:
- 6 large jalapeno peppers
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup mini pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Fill each pepper half with marinara sauce, then top with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, black olives, and chopped basil.
- Place the filled pepper halves on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 2 pepper halves
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 9g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 7g
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use a different type of pepper instead of jalapenos?
- Q: Can I make these ahead of time and reheat them?
- Q: Can I omit the pepperoni for a vegetarian version?
- Q: Can I add other toppings like mushrooms or sausage?
A: Yes, you can use bell peppers or any other type of pepper you prefer for a milder or different flavor profile.
A: Yes, you can prepare the peppers ahead of time and reheat them in the oven before serving.
A: Yes, you can leave out the pepperoni or substitute it with your favorite vegetarian-friendly topping.
A: Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking and add any additional ingredients you enjoy.
Helpful tips:
- Try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- You can broil the peppers for a few minutes at the end for a crispy, bubbly cheese topping.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
- For a spicier version, leave some of the jalapeno seeds in the peppers.
Expert Secrets:
- Make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos to control the level of heat.
- Pre-cook the pepper halves for a few minutes before filling to ensure they are tender when serving.
- For a smoky flavor, try using smoked mozzarella cheese in place of regular mozzarella.
- Serve the pepper poppers with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.