Pepperoni Pizza Spread
Creamy, cheesy pepperoni spread with mushrooms and olives offers bold flavors and is perfect for parties or casual gatherings with crackers, breadsticks, or French bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded Cheddar cheese, shredded Mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, chopped pepperoni, drained and chopped mushrooms, chopped onion, green pepper, ripe olives, and chopped stuffed green olives.
- Transfer the mixture to an 11 x 7 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve with crackers, breadsticks, or French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a little cream cheese to the mixture. If you're out of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute. Feel free to swap out the cheeses; a blend of Monterey Jack and Parmesan can also work well. For added flavor, sprinkle in some Italian seasoning or garlic powder.
Serving Suggestions
This Pepperoni Pizza Spread is perfect for game day or casual get-togethers. Pair it with a variety of crackers, breadsticks, or even slices of French bread for dipping. For a complete spread, serve alongside a fresh salad or a fruit platter. It also makes a great appetizer at parties, much like the popular American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spread in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepperoni Pizza Spread contains roughly 534 calories, with 18g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 895mg per serving (39% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving for the best results.
What can I use instead of pepperoni?
If you're looking for alternatives to pepperoni, try using cooked sausage, diced ham, or even vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a vegetarian option.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes, you can lighten the spread by using reduced-fat cheeses and mayonnaise. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables like spinach or artichokes can add volume without many calories.
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).