These two-ingredient pepperoni Parmesan chips turn deli slices into a crisp, salty party snack in minutes. The air fryer curls the pepperoni at the edges while a small mound of Parmesan browns in the center. Serve them as an appetizer, add them to a snack board, or make a small batch when you want something crunchy.
Why this version works
Unlike our oven-baked Pepperoni Cheese Crisps, this version uses only pepperoni and Parmesan. It starts with the pepperoni slice as the base and cooks in the air fryer, so you can make a small batch without heating the oven.
Ingredients
- 6 ounces sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Choose slices of similar thickness so they cook evenly. Finely grated Parmesan stays near the center; large shreds can slide off as the pepperoni curls.
How to make pepperoni chips in the air fryer
1. Arrange the pepperoni
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) if your model calls for preheating. Place pepperoni slices in one layer in the basket, with a little room between them. Work in batches rather than stacking the slices. Follow your appliance’s instructions for liners; do not put loose paper or foil in an empty air fryer.
2. Add Parmesan
Sprinkle a small pinch of Parmesan in the middle of each slice. Use the cheese sparingly so the pepperoni edges can crisp.
3. Air fry until crisp
Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, checking at about 3 minutes because air fryers vary. The edges should curl and darken slightly, and the cheese should look golden. Remove the basket promptly when they are ready; thin pepperoni can go from crisp to burnt quickly.
4. Cool and serve
Transfer the chips to a paper towel-lined plate and let them rest for 2 to 3 minutes. They crisp further as they cool. Serve with cucumber, celery, olives or your favorite dip.
Variations & Tips
- Try a cheese swap: Finely grated Romano or Asiago can replace Parmesan, though the flavor will change.
- Watch the fat: Pepperoni releases oil. Drain the finished chips on paper towels if you prefer a lighter finish.
- Keep batches small: An uncrowded basket helps the hot air reach every slice.
- Serve soon: These taste best shortly after cooking. Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container and re-crisp briefly in the air fryer before serving.
Recipe Card: 2-Ingredient Air Fryer Pepperoni Parmesan Chips
Yield: 4 snack servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 4–6 minutes per batch
Total time: about 15 minutes, depending on batch size
Ingredients
- 6 oz sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C), if required by the manufacturer.
- Arrange pepperoni in a single layer in the basket.
- Sprinkle a small pinch of Parmesan onto the center of each slice.
- Air fry for 4–6 minutes, checking early, until the edges curl and the cheese is golden.
- Drain on paper towels and cool for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Note: Cook in batches and follow your air fryer’s instructions for liners.
