I’ve been a cheese and pepperoni addict for ever.
My work vending machine place sold 4 slices cheese and 4 slices pepperoni with crackers. (I never ate them, I’m not a fan of saltines, I prefer ritz crackers)
The cheese and pepperoni cost less than 6$ and I got 11 packs from this (could have gotten more if I’d used my slicer and had them evenly cut down but I didn’t do that for this) so going from 22$ plus tax to less than 6$ I’m saving myself a good chunk on my work snacks!
Edit***(found both the pepperoni and cheese at Walmart, however you don’t HAVE to go to Walmart either!)
Walmart pepperoni stick: under 3$ for this brand.
And the cheese was around 3$ at Walmart
Ultimate Cheese and Pepperoni Snack Mix
Ingredients:
- 1 Walmart pepperoni stick (under $3)
- 1 pack of cheese (around $3)
- Ritz crackers (or your preferred crackers)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the Walmart pepperoni stick into thin rounds. You can adjust the thickness according to your preference.
- Cut the cheese into small, bite-sized cubes.
- Combine Cheese and Pepperoni:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced pepperoni rounds and cheese cubes.
- Mix and Toss:
- Gently toss the cheese and pepperoni to create a well-distributed mix. This step ensures each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.
- Add Ritz Crackers:
- Break Ritz crackers into halves or quarters, depending on your preference. Add them to the bowl with the cheese and pepperoni mix.
- Optional Enhancement:
- For an extra kick, you can sprinkle some dried oregano, garlic powder, or your favorite seasoning over the mix. Toss again to incorporate the flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the ultimate cheese and pepperoni snack mix into individual portions or airtight containers, making it convenient for your work snacks.
- Grab a handful whenever you crave a cheesy, pepperoni-packed delight. Pair it with your favorite beverage for a satisfying snack.
- Storage:
- Store any remaining mix in an airtight container to keep it fresh for your next snack time.
- Cost Savings:
- Revel in the satisfaction of saving a significant amount on your work snacks while enjoying a delicious and customized combination of cheese, pepperoni, and crackers.
Feel free to adapt this recipe based on your taste preferences, and enjoy your homemade, budget-friendly cheese and pepperoni snack mix
Here are some tips to make the Ultimate Cheese and Pepperoni Snack Mix even more delicious:
- Quality Ingredients:
- Choose high-quality pepperoni and cheese for the best flavor. Look for products with natural ingredients and minimal additives.
- Cheese Varieties:
- Experiment with different cheese varieties to add depth to the flavor. Try a mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a diverse taste.
- Cracker Options:
- While Ritz crackers are a great choice, feel free to explore other cracker varieties like whole-grain, multigrain, or even flavored crackers to enhance the texture and taste.
- Freshness Matters:
- Ensure your ingredients are fresh, especially when dealing with cheese. Freshly sliced or cubed cheese tends to have a better texture and flavor.
- Slice Uniformity:
- If you have the time, use a slicer to ensure uniform thickness for the pepperoni rounds. This can contribute to a more consistent texture in each bite.
- Seasoning Enhancement:
- Customize the seasoning to your liking. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or herbs like thyme or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
- Let it Marinate:
- If time allows, let the cheese and pepperoni mix marinate in the refrigerator for an hour or two. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Texture Variation:
- Add some texture variety by incorporating nuts like almonds or walnuts into the mix. This adds a satisfying crunch to the snack.
- Portion Control:
- Portion the snack mix into smaller containers or zip-lock bags for easy grab-and-go servings. This helps with portion control and keeps the snack fresh.
- Pairing Suggestions:
- Pair the Ultimate Cheese and Pepperoni Snack Mix with your favorite beverages. Whether it’s a refreshing iced tea, a soda, or even a glass of wine, the right pairing can elevate the snacking experience.
- Creative Additions:
- Get creative by adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a sweet and savory twist. This can add a burst of sweetness that complements the richness of the cheese and pepperoni.
Remember, the best snack mix is the one that suits your personal preferences, so feel free to experiment and tailor the recipe to create your perfect Ultimate Cheese and Pepperoni Snack Mix