If you’re seeking a savory, crispy, and delightfully cheesy snack that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, Low Carb Pepperoni Cups are about to become your new obsession. Imagine all the flavors of your favorite pizza, but packed into a two-bite cup that’s ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or late-night cravings, without the carb-heavy crust. These playful cups are brimming with tangy sauce, fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and spicy pepperoni, making them just as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether you’re hosting friends, looking for a satisfying game day snack, or simply want something that feels indulgent yet wholesome, Low Carb Pepperoni Cups never disappoint.

Low Carb Pepperoni Cups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Low Carb Pepperoni Cups, the magic lies in a handful of ingredients that each bring their own pop of flavor and texture. Each component has its role and together, they create a perfectly balanced bite that is both satisfying and crave-worthy.

Pepperoni slices (24, sandwich style): These wide slices form the sturdy, flavorful cup base and crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Basil leaves (24 small): A single leaf per cup adds a burst of herbaceous freshness that cuts through the richness.
Pizza sauce (small jar): Look for a robust, tomato-forward sauce for a tangy, saucy layer that doesn’t overpower.
Mini mozzarella balls (24): These melt into gooey, creamy centers, reminiscent of classic pizza cheese pulls.
Black olives (sliced, optional): Optional, but they add a glossy finish and a touch of briny contrast that rounds out the flavors.

How to Make Low Carb Pepperoni Cups

Step 1: Prep the Pepperoni

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Take each pepperoni slice and snip four small (about ½-inch) cuts around the edge, spacing them evenly. The trick is to leave the center untouched; you want each slice to resemble a rounded cross. This clever little step helps the slices fold neatly into muffin tins for crisp, tidy cups every time!

Step 2: Form and Bake the Cups

Gently press a prepared pepperoni slice into each well of a mini muffin pan. As they bake for 5 to 6 minutes, the slices will bubble and crisp up around the sides but stay vibrant red and flexible enough in the center. Once they’re done, let the pepperoni cups cool in the pan for five minutes so they firm up and hold their shape, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to blot away extra oil.

Step 3: Layer the Flavors

Wipe any residual oil out of the muffin pan—this quick step keeps the cups from getting greasy. Place the cups back in the pan and start assembling: a fresh basil leaf on the bottom of each, then a small dollop (about ½ teaspoon) of pizza sauce, followed by a mini mozzarella ball, and a slice of black olive on top if you like. These layers combine for a miniaturized, flavor-packed pizza bite.

Step 4: Final Melt and Serve

Slide the filled cups back into the oven for just 2 to 3 minutes. The mozzarella will start to melt and the aroma will be instantly mouthwatering. Let them cool for 3 to 5 minutes before serving so the molten cheese can set ever so slightly and the Low Carb Pepperoni Cups are easy to pick up.

How to Serve Low Carb Pepperoni Cups

Garnishes

For an extra flourish, a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh basil or parsley on top brings extra color and a pop of freshness. A light dusting of grated parmesan or a crack of black pepper can also take these cups from simple to sensational.

Side Dishes

Pair your Low Carb Pepperoni Cups with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even a platter of crunchy crudités. They’re also fantastic alongside homemade zucchini fries, or served with extra marinara for dunking to double down on the pizza vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cups on a wooden board for a casual get-together, layer them on a platter with plenty of fresh basil leaves for a party, or pop toothpicks in each one and stand them up in a basket for easy grab-and-go snacking. For a playful touch, mix up the fillings—try sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers along with the mozzarella for colorful variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, keep your leftover Low Carb Pepperoni Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty and fresh for up to four days, ready to be a snack or quick lunch on demand.

Freezing

These cups freeze surprisingly well! Place them in a single layer on a tray to freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to one month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To recapture that melty, just-baked texture, pop your refrigerated or thawed pepperoni cups back into a 350 degree F oven for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch, but the oven ensures they stay crispy.

FAQs

Can I use turkey pepperoni or another type of meat?

Absolutely! Turkey pepperoni or even thinly sliced salami both work well. Just make sure the slices are large enough to form sturdy cups and keep a close eye on baking times since different meats crisp at different rates.

What if I don’t have a mini muffin pan?

You can still make Low Carb Pepperoni Cups in a standard muffin tin—just know they’ll be a bit larger and may need slightly more filling to balance them out. Lining each well with parchment strips helps with easy removal.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the mozzarella balls for your favorite plant-based cheese alternative. Cheese with some melting ability will give you that gooey, pizza-like middle.

Is there a low sodium option?

Opt for reduced sodium pepperoni and low-sodium mozzarella if salt is a concern. Using a homemade or low-sodium pizza sauce gives you extra control over the sodium level in each cup.

Can I add other toppings or fillings?

One of the joys of Low Carb Pepperoni Cups is their versatility! Try bits of roasted peppers, onions, mushrooms, or even a pinch of chili flakes. Adjust the amount so the cups are still easy to eat in a single bite.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Low Carb Pepperoni Cups enough for anyone searching for a satisfying, flavorful snack without the carb-laden guilt. They’re endlessly customizable, earn rave reviews from kids and adults alike, and come together in minutes. Give them a try on your next pizza night—you’ll be amazed by just how quickly they disappear!