Creamy Bagel Seasoned Pepperoni Bites with Dipping Marinara Recipe

Introduction

This snack brings together the best of creamy and crunchy textures in a bite-sized treat. Pepperoni pockets filled with seasoned cream cheese bake up crispy and perfect for dipping. They make a great appetizer or keto-friendly snack to satisfy savory cravings.

Ingredients

• 40 pepperoni slices
• 1 cup cream cheese
• 2 tbsp Everything but the Bagel Seasoning
• Keto-friendly marinara sauce (for dipping)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)
• Grated parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Step 2: Spread a dollop of cream cheese onto half of the pepperoni slices.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle Everything but the Bagel Seasoning over the cream cheese.
4. Step 4: Top each with another pepperoni slice and press the edges firmly to seal.
5. Step 5: Arrange the pepperoni pockets on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Step 6: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are crispy.
7. Step 7: Remove and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess grease.
8. Step 8: Serve warm with keto-friendly marinara sauce for dipping. Add crushed red pepper flakes or grated parmesan if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder flavor, omit the crushed red pepper flakes or substitute with smoked paprika.
• You can swap out the cream cheese for a flavored cheese spread to add different accents.
• Make sure to press the edges securely to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
• Serve with ranch or garlic aioli as an alternative dipping option.

Storage

Store leftover pepperoni pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pepperoni pockets and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve for best texture.

Are these suitable for a keto diet?

Absolutely. The ingredients used are low in carbs, making these pockets a great keto-friendly snack, especially paired with a sugar-free marinara sauce.

Creamy Bagel Seasoned Pepperoni Bites with Dipping Marinara Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 142 reviews

These creamy and crunchy pepperoni pockets combine the rich smoothness of cream cheese with crispy baked pepperoni coated in everything bagel seasoning. Perfect as a keto-friendly snack or appetizer, they offer a delightful burst of flavor and texture with every bite, especially when dipped in savory marinara sauce.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 20 servings (2 pockets per serving) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 40 pepperoni slices
• 1 cup cream cheese
• 2 tbsp Everything but the Bagel Seasoning

For Serving

• Keto-friendly marinara sauce (for dipping)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)
• Grated parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to crisp up the pepperoni pockets evenly.
2. Prepare Pepperoni Slices: Lay out 20 pepperoni slices and spread a dollop of cream cheese onto each one, covering the surface but leaving edges clear for sealing.
3. Season Cream Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of Everything but the Bagel Seasoning over the cream cheese to add a savory, crunchy flavor.
4. Seal Pockets: Place another pepperoni slice on top of each cream cheese-covered slice. Press the edges firmly together to seal the pockets and keep the filling inside during baking.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sealed pepperoni pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pepperoni becomes crispy and the edges are golden brown.
7. Drain Excess Grease: Remove from the oven and carefully transfer the pockets onto paper towels. Pat gently to remove excess grease for a less oily snack.
8. Serve: Serve warm with keto-friendly marinara sauce for dipping. Optionally, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or grated parmesan cheese to enhance flavor and add spice.

Notes

• For extra spice, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on the cream cheese before sealing.
• Make sure edges of the pepperoni slices are well sealed to prevent cream cheese from leaking out.
• Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture and flavor.
• Allow baked pockets to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns from hot filling.
• This recipe is keto-friendly and low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for ketogenic diets.

Keywords: pepperoni pockets, cream cheese, keto snack, appetizer, baked pepperoni, everything bagel seasoning, low carb snack