Pepperoni-Cheese Spread
A creamy, savory spread blending chopped pepperoni, cream cheese, and parsley, whipped with heavy cream for a rich appetizer that suits casual gatherings and party tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the pepperoni using a food processor.
- Mix the chopped pepperoni with softened cream cheese and parsley in a bowl.
- Whip the heavy cream in a separate bowl until soft peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the pepperoni mixture using a mixer or a spatula.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl sprayed with Pam for easy unmolding.
- Chill the spread until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of crushed red pepper or cayenne to the cream cheese mixture. If you can't find presliced pepperoni, you can easily slice your own from a whole pepperoni stick. For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt, which will still provide creaminess without the extra calories.
Serving Suggestions
This spread is perfect for entertaining; serve it with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer. It also pairs beautifully with Philbrook Farm Dark Bread for a more substantial snack. Consider adding a side of Cherry Center Balls for an added touch of sweetness to your platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pepperoni-Cheese Spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before spreading.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepperoni-Cheese Spread contains roughly 881 calories, with 38g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (158% of the Daily Value), iron (143% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (108% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 911mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Pepperoni-Cheese Spread a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lower-fat alternative, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese option. This will give you a similar texture while reducing the overall fat content.
How do I serve this spread at a party?
For a festive presentation, transfer the spread into a decorative bowl and garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika. Pair it with a variety of dippers like pretzels, chips, or vegetable sticks to cater to different tastes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).