Name: 20-Minute Pepperoni Pizza Crostini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 24 homemade crostini (or store-bought); 1 1/2 cups roasted tomato sauce (or store-bought pizza sauce, 400 milliliters); 16 ounces whole milk mozzarella, thinly sliced (454 grams); 2 1/2 ounces pepperoni, cut into quarters (70 grams); 6 mini bell peppers, de-seeded & thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped (12 grams); Red pepper flakes; Dried oregano; Parmesan cheese

Introduction

Pepperoni pizza crostini are a fun and quick appetizer that brings all the flavors of your favorite pizza into a crispy bite-sized treat. Ready in just 20 minutes, they are perfect for parties or a simple snack.

The image shows a white speckled oval plate filled with several pieces of toasted bread slices. Each piece has three distinct layers: a golden-brown toasted bread base, a thick layer of melted white cheese on top, and thin slices of red and yellow roasted bell peppers scattered over the cheese. The peppers have a slightly shiny and soft texture, and the slices are sprinkled with chopped herbs and red pepper flakes. A few fresh green basil leaves surround the plate, adding contrast to the warm colors. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with some pepper flakes sprinkled around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

24 homemade crostini (or store-bought)
1 1/2 cups roasted tomato sauce (or store-bought pizza sauce, 400 milliliters)
16 ounces whole milk mozzarella, thinly sliced (454 grams)
2 1/2 ounces pepperoni, cut into quarters (70 grams)
6 mini bell peppers, de-seeded and thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped (12 grams)
Red pepper flakes, oregano, and parmesan, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C). Arrange the crostini on a sheet pan.
Step 2: Spread 1 tablespoon (16 milliliters) of tomato sauce on each crostini. Top each with a slice of mozzarella, a few pieces of pepperoni, and some bell pepper slices. Sprinkle with fresh basil.
Step 3: Bake the crostini for 5-6 minutes until the cheese has melted. Then switch the oven to the broiler on HIGH and broil for 2-3 minutes until the pepperoni crisps and the cheese bubbles. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 4: Remove from the oven and garnish with red pepper flakes, oregano, and parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use spicy or flavored pepperoni to add a different kick to your crostini.
Substitute mozzarella with provolone or a blend of cheeses for richer flavor.
Try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished crostini for an extra layer of taste.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the pepperoni and add olives or mushrooms.

Storage

Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crostini soggy.

How to Serve

This image shows several pieces of toasted bread on a white oval plate with a light speckled design. Each slice is topped with three main layers: the first layer is a golden brown toasted crust, the second layer is melted white cheese with a smooth, creamy texture, and the third layer consists of bright red and yellow thin bell pepper rings along with small red tomato slices. The toppings are sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and some chili flakes, adding texture and a pop of color. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, giving the whole scene a fresh, clean look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought crostini?

Yes, store-bought crostini work perfectly and save time. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.

What can I use if I don’t have roasted tomato sauce?

You can substitute with any quality store-bought pizza sauce or marinara. For a quick homemade sauce, simmer canned tomatoes with garlic and herbs.

20-Minute Pepperoni Pizza Crostini Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 131 reviews

These 20-Minute Pepperoni Pizza Crostini combine the classic flavors of pizza in a quick and easy appetizer. Crispy toasted crostini are topped with roasted tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, pepperoni, mini bell peppers, and fresh basil, then baked and broiled for a perfect melty, crispy finish. Ideal for parties or a tasty snack, this recipe delivers pizza goodness in a bite-sized form with minimal preparation.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 24 crostini 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crostini

24 homemade crostini (or store-bought)

Toppings

1 1/2 cups roasted tomato sauce (or store-bought pizza sauce, 400 milliliters)
16 ounces whole milk mozzarella, thinly sliced (454 grams)
2 1/2 ounces pepperoni, cut into quarters (70 grams)
6 mini bell peppers, de-seeded & thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped (12 grams)

For Serving

Red pepper flakes
Dried oregano
Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C) and arrange the crostini in a single layer on a sheet pan to prepare for topping.
Assemble Crostini: Spread about 1 tablespoon (16 milliliters) of tomato sauce evenly on each crostini. Layer each piece with a slice of mozzarella cheese, several quarters of pepperoni, and thin slices of mini bell peppers. Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top for fresh flavor.
Bake and Broil: Bake the crostini in the preheated oven for 5 to 6 minutes until the cheese melts. Then switch your oven to the broil setting on HIGH, and broil the crostini for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely to ensure the pepperoni crisps up and the cheese bubbles without burning.
Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, garnish the crostini with red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious bite-sized pizza treat!

Notes

You can use store-bought crostini or make your own by thinly slicing baguette and toasting it until crisp.
The recipe works well with any pizza sauce or roasted tomato sauce you prefer.
For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Keep a close watch during broiling to prevent burning, as oven broilers vary in intensity.
These crostini are best eaten fresh but can be warmed up briefly in the oven if needed.

Keywords: pepperoni pizza crostini, pizza appetizers, quick pizza bites, easy party snacks, baked crostini, Italian appetizers