Explore our curated list of the best pepperoni for pizza making. Discover your next favorite topping and elevate your homemade pizza experience!
Top 6 Pepperoni Brands: Find the Best Pepperoni for Pizza
Are you looking for the best pepperoni options to give your pizza that classic, savory flavor we all know and love? Put your hunt to rest; we have collected the best pepperoni for pizza from around the world in this comprehensive guide.
Discover why each one offers its unique texture and taste, with recommendations on how to use them in every dish from traditional pies to gourmet creations. Read on to find out more about these delicious slices of cured pork!
List of 6 Pepperoni Brands for Your Pizza
Best Pepperoni for Pizza
Old Wisconsin Premium Summer Sausage
OLD WISCONSIN Premium Summer Sausage is an ideal, high-protein snack for those on the go who want something delicious and convenient.
This 8-ounce package of naturally hardwood smoked beef summer sausage provides a savory and unique taste. Crafted from 100% premium beef, these gluten-free sausages contain no binders, fillers, or extenders and come with no added MSG.
So if you’re looking for a keto-friendly snack that’s delicious, high-quality, and easy to take with you wherever you go, try the OLD WISCONSIN Premium Summer Sausage.
Perfect to take on your next family outing, serve at barbecues, or pack in lunches and snacks for work/school days – you can also enjoy it as part of a holiday spread! Enjoy the old-world flavor of OLD WISCONSIN Premium Summer Sausage today.
Feature:
- 100%, high-quality beef.
- The shelf is stable and ready to eat.
- High protein snack with no carbs.
- Made with all meat and is gluten-free with no MSG added.
- Smoked over real hardwood fires for a savory taste.
- No refrigeration is required until after opening.
What do people like?
- Putting this on handmade pizza is the perfect match
- This product is a great addition to pizza and other dishes for a delicious surprise.
- This sausage is shelf stable, requiring no refrigeration (until opened).
- The flavor and texture are good.
- It’s very fresh.
What do people not like?
- A little small for what they charge for them.
- A little bit on the salty side.
Applegate Natural Uncured Turkey Pepperoni
Applegate Natural Uncured Turkey Pepperoni is the perfect addition to bring a zesty zing to your meals! Gluten-free, with no added hormones, antibiotics, nitrites, nitrates, or artificial ingredients — this best pepperoni for pizza has everything you want without sacrificing flavor.
The turkey is humanely raised in an environmentally friendly setting and each flavor-packed slice contains just two simple ingredients: Turkey and Sea Salt.
Whether you use it as a pizza topping or add it to your favorite Italian dish – Applegate Natural Uncured Turkey Pepperoni delivers delicious and wholesome results.
If you’re looking for a convenient deli quality personality with purity of ingredients, there’s nothing better than Applegate Natural Uncured Turkey Pepperoni!
Feature:
- Made with premium turkey raised humanely without antibiotics, hormones, or chemicals
- No nitrites or nitrates, artificial ingredients, or GMO ingredients
- Dairy and casein-free, as well as gluten-free.
What do people like?
- It is a great pork alternative.
- Â It is always fresh
- This pepperoni is perfect for homemade pizzas, bagel pizzas, and quesadilla pizzas.
- Applegate is a company with strong ethical values that prioritizes humane turkey and sustainable fish.
- Perfect for those who like turkey more than pork.
What do people not like?
- It is a little more expensive.
- It’s not quite the same as “regular” pepperoni
Foustman’s Salami Pork and Beef Pepperoni
Foustman’s Salami Pork and Beef Pepperoni is the perfect way to spruce up your next sandwich, or deli meat tray, or pairing with a nice selection of cheeses.
It’s both delicious and versatile. Nothing beats the taste of a homemade Italian pepperoni salami – that’s just what our salami is, traditional Italian made from quality pork and beef! Plus, it’s keto-friendly for those watching their carb intake.
The Foustman family has been producing artisanal uncured dry salami for generations using traditional methods passed down from the Old Country. They believe in quality that you can trust – no artificial ingredients whatsoever make this one of the cleanest choices on the market.
Unlike other lunch meats that need to be refrigerated after opening, these salamis are shelf-stable so you can bring them along while camping, hiking, picnicking, or traveling. Easy to transport yet still packs a flavor punch that will stand out on any occasion.
So next time you’re looking for ways to spice up breakfast eggs, pasta dishes, or salads without sacrificing calories, look no further than Foustman’s Salami Pork and Beef Pepperoni!
Feature:
- A choice blend of pork and beef with paprika for a depth of flavor
- Low-carb, high-protein meat snack
- Doesn’t need refrigeration until after opening
What do people like?
- This stuff is great on homemade pizza.
- The pepperoni has a mild flavor when compared to some other pepperoni brands, but very good as a snack, on pizza, or on crackers.
- The packaging is outstanding, well packed with multilayers of natural materials, with the only exception of the outer layer- plastic wrap.
- No nitrate, just like an uncured product, with less fat, and much better flavor than most pepperoni in the market.
- You can keep it for a longer time than others.
What do people not like?
- This is a costly but special treat.
- The casing should be removed first.
HORMEL Pepperoni Original
Are you looking for a delicious and protein-packed snack or pizza topping? Look no further than HORMEL Pepperoni Original! This gluten-free pepperoni is America’s #1 selling brand – meaning it is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Every slice made with beef and pork, this best pepperoni for pizza uses a signature blend of spices for the perfect zesty flavor.
Whether on top of a pizza, inside of sandwiches or as a simple schooltime snack, it provides 140 calories and 5g of protein per serving to keep you going throughout the day. Its small bite-sized slices offer versatility in recipes – giving you more options when planning dinner or lunch.
Plus, these bites do not require refrigeration until opened making them ideal to stock up on for lunches and snacks all week long. Enjoy the same irresistible taste that everyone loves with every bite of HORMEL Pepperoni Original!
Feature:
- 140 calories per serving with 5g of protein
- A gluten-free formula featuring pork and beef
- Natural ingredients
- Sustainable source of protein
- Convenient bite-sized pieces
What do people like?
- Excellent as a topping on pizza, both frozen pizza and grilled cheese.
- This is delicious pepperoni, with just the right amount of spicy and savory flavors.
- They are reasonable in price.
- Always fresh, it lasts a long time in the fridge, even after opening.
- There is plenty to make two large pizzas in the bag.
- It pairs well with fresh mozzarella.
What do people not like?
- You should double-check the expiration date when buying.
365 by Whole Foods Market, Pepperoni Mini Pork Sliced
If you’re looking for a delicious, authentic Italian-style pepperoni, look no further than 365 by Whole Foods Market Pepperoni Mini Pork Sliced! Made with free-range pork, fresh spices, and pure extracts of paprika (for flavor), this product is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
And despite its gourmet taste and top-notch ingredients, it won’t break the bank! You can trust that this product has met Whole Foods Markets’ rigorous quality standards; perfect for those searching for convenience without sacrificing taste.
From healthy snacks to mealtime staples, 365 by Whole Foods Market offers a huge selection of both natural and organic products that are sure to tantalize your tastebuds.
With an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and unbeatable prices, 365 by Whole Foods Market makes grocery shopping an enjoyable experience. Jump in the cart and grab yourself some of these flavorful pepperoni slices today—we promise you won’t be disappointed!
Feature:
- All 365 Everyday Value products meet Whole Foods Market quality standards.
- Highest quality ingredients for cooking with the best natural and organic products.
- Premium ingredients at prices you can get down with
What do people like?
- Pepperoni pizzas and other snacks made with this brand of pepperoni have a unique and delicious flavor that surpasses other brands.
- Good for the price.
- They get crispy on top of pizza!
- Spicy but just the right amount of spiciness.
- The texture is just right.
- Â Lasts pretty well in the fridge.
What do people not like?
- Â This pepperoni is thick and small,
- The edges are hard somehow.
Dietz & Watson Pepperoni
Dietz & Watson Pepperoni is one of the best choices for those looking for premium quality, healthy snacking options. This gluten-free product is full of flavor and made from the finest ingredients like pork, salt, and a medley of special spices.
Perfect for creating mouthwatering charcuterie boards, Dietz & Watson Pepperoni is also ideal for everyday snacking and entertaining.
No added hormones or MSG, milk-free, trans-fat-free, and soy-free, you can be sure that this snack is safe for the whole family – even the pickiest eaters will love it! Plus, its delicious flavor is sure to complement any dish.
At Dietz & Watson, we understand the importance of knowing exactly what you are putting on your table – so rest assured that all our ingredients are sourced from farmers who share our commitment to crafting great products with only honest quality ingredients.
Experience the amazing taste with every bite when you choose the best pepperoni for pizza– it’s perfect and wholesome!
Feature:
- Easy to assemble charcuterie boards.
- Organic, antibiotic-free, and gluten-free options.
- Enjoy delicious, kid-friendly snacks
- No Soy or Milk ingredients
- High-quality ingredients with no fillers or added hormones
What do people like?
- It has just the right amount of spice and flavor, not too salty nor too oily.
- Â Easy to use and stays fresh in the refrigerator for quite a while.
- Great texture, and great thickness.
- Deitz & Watson pepperoni has great flavor and is made of real meat.
- Â This is a thin slice cut so it is better for pizza vs a thicker sliced option.
What do people not like?
- Freshness did NOT last in the fridge.
- Â It is not in a ziplock-type container like their other deli items.
How to Choose the Best Pepperoni for Pizza?
Ingredients
The key to exceptional pepperoni lies in its ingredients. The quality of the meat and the assortment of spices significantly influence its taste and texture.
While prioritizing top-notch ingredients is vital, it’s essential to consider your dietary preferences or restrictions. For those avoiding pork, there are enticing options available, such as 100% beef pepperoni or turkey pepperoni.
Moreover, for individuals seeking low-sodium or gluten-free alternatives, specialized pepperoni options cater to their specific needs.
Delve into the world of pepperoni while savoring delectable flavors and adhering to your dietary choices.
Thickness
When it comes to pepperoni, the thickness can make all the difference in taste and texture. Thin or thick, it’s up to you and your personal preference. But keep in mind that the thickness of the pepperoni also impacts how it cooks.
When exposed to heat, thin pepperoni slices crisp up beautifully, adding a delightful crunch to your pizza. In contrast, thicker slices yield a chewier finish.
To strike a balance between crispiness and texture, opt for pepperoni slices that are neither too thin nor too thick. This way, you can enjoy a slight crispiness on the outside while maintaining some chewiness.
If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, consider using pepperoni slices that are not too thin or too thick. This way, you can enjoy a slight crisp on the outside while still savoring the chewy texture.
For ultimate control over the thickness, consider purchasing whole pepperoni sticks and slicing them to your liking. You can even have a combination of thinner and thicker slices to cater to different preferences.
Make your pepperoni slices perfect by choosing the ideal thickness for your taste buds.
Flat or cupped pepperoni
Choosing between flat or cupped pepperoni is a crucial decision when it comes to pizza toppings.
When the pepperoni is flat on the pizza, its natural oils spread across the surface, creating a cheese-like sheen. On the other hand, a medium-thick cup style holds creamy dressings perfectly.
If the pepperoni cups while cooking, it retains all its flavorful oils, resulting in a more intense pepperoni taste in every bite.
The thickness of the pepperoni plays a role in whether it stays flat or cups during cooking. Medium-thick slices are ideal for cupping, while thicker slices tend to stay flat.
While you may not always have control over the outcome, understanding the characteristics of flat and cupped pepperoni can help you make the right choice for your pizza.
Fat Content
When it comes to pepperoni, the fat content plays a crucial role in its overall quality. Ensuring the right balance of fat is essential to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
Insufficient fat content can result in dry pepperoni once cooked. Worse yet, it won’t infuse your pizza with that delicious fatty flavor we all love.
On the other hand, excessive fat content can lead to an unappetizing pool of oil on your pizza. That’s not what you want.
The ideal fat content to look for is around 40%. This sweet spot provides optimal flavor and texture, allowing some oil to be released into the pizza without drying out the pepperoni or causing an excessive amount of oil to spread.
Choose wisely for a delightful and well-balanced pepperoni pizza experience.
Spice Level
Discover the perfect balance of spice in your pepperoni topping. Different brands and varieties offer a range of spice levels to suit your preferences.
For a pizza, all to yourself, indulge in the intensity of a mild or super spicy pepperoni.
But when it’s time to share the goodness, consider a milder option that everyone can savor.
Elevate your pizza game with the right spice level – the choice is yours.
Types of Pepperoni
There are many different types of pepperoni available on the market today. Here are some of the most popular varieties:
- Traditional Pepperoni: This classic type of pepperoni is made with pork and beef that have been cured in a saltwater brine and then smoked over wood chips. The result is a flavorful and slightly spicy flavor.
- Spicy Pepperoni: For those who love heat, spicy pepperoni can provide an added kick to your pizza. This type of pepperoni has a mix of hot peppers such as jalapeno, habanero, or cayenne.
- Turkey Pepperoni: A lean option that has the same flavor profile as traditional pepperoni but is made with ground turkey instead.
- Organic Pepperoni: Made with organic pork and beef that have been raised without antibiotics or hormones for a more sustainable option.
- Vegetarian/Vegan-Friendly Pepperoni: Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options are becoming increasingly popular on the market today. These varieties are typically made with soy or tofu and are full of flavor.
When choosing the best pepperoni for pizza, you should consider the type that fits your dietary needs and preferences. Consider factors such as taste, texture, cost, and nutritional value to ensure you choose the right variety for your pizza night!
FAQs
What Is the Order of Toppings on a Pizza: Pepperoni Before Or After Cheese?
When it comes to everyone’s beloved pizza topping, pepperoni, it’s best to place it on top of the cheese. As the pizza bakes in a hot oven, the pepperoni will release its flavorful fats and become wonderfully crispy around the edges. This is a defining feature of Detroit-style pizza.
Where Does Pepperoni Come From?
Pepperoni is an Italian-American variety of salami that originated in the United States. Disproving the common misconception, pepperoni did not originate in Italy.
It was ingeniously crafted by Italian immigrants in the vibrant streets of 1900s New York City. This revelation explains why pepperoni has rightfully claimed its position as the most adored pizza topping in America.
It’s made with a mix of pork and beef, cured in saltwater brine, then smoked over wood chips. The spices used to flavor pepperoni vary among different brands and varieties but typically include paprika, garlic powder, sugar, and cayenne pepper.
The popularity of this classic combination has spread globally, making it one of the most common pizza toppings today. Whether you opt for traditional pepperoni or its spicy counterpart, it’s certain to elevate your pizza experience!
What Is the Ideal Thickness of Pepperoni for Making Pepperoni Cups on Pizza?
In my pursuit of creating the perfect pepperoni cup, I conducted thorough research. I discovered that if the slices are either too thin or too thick, they won’t achieve the desired curl. Therefore, the pepperoni must be approximately 1/8″ thick or slightly more.
Can Salami Be Used Instead of Pepperoni on a Pizza?
It’s a delicious and unique variation of the classic pepperoni pizza. Salami is a cured meat, similar to pepperoni, but with a slightly different taste.
It has a more herbal flavor and less spiciness than pepperoni. Despite this, it still packs a lot of flavor. In my opinion, salami adds an extra layer of deliciousness to the pizza.
How to Make Crispy Pepperoni on Pizza?
The key to achieving the perfect pepperoni-topped pizza is heat. The high temperatures of a wood-fired or brick oven will cause the fat contained within the pepperoni to render, creating an intensely flavorful topping with a crispy texture.
Additionally, heat helps caramelize and develop the flavor of the toppings, allowing their aroma to fill your kitchen!
Alternatively, if you don’t have access to a wood-fired or brick oven, try using your stovetop and cast iron skillet to crisp up that pepperoni. Cook it on medium-high heat until its edges become golden brown and slightly crisp. Sprinkle it over your favorite cheese and vegetable mix for that finished look!
No matter what method you choose, make sure to keep an eye on your pizza as it bakes so that you can prevent the pepperoni from burning. Enjoy!
What Is The Crispy Pepperoni Called?
The crispy pepperoni topping is often referred to as “cup and char” due to its curled shape resembling that of a cup. This cooking method creates an exceptionally flavorful and slightly crunchy texture, making it the perfect topping for pizzas or other savory dishes.
This style has been a favorite in Buffalo and the Midwest. It has now become a sensation in pizzerias and Instagram feeds across New York City and beyond, according to Eater New York.
Conclusion
With so many options and questions swirling around, it’s important to strike the perfect balance between flavor, texture, and personal preference when selecting your pepperoni for pizza.
Start by trying small amounts of each type of pepperoni available at your local market. Taste them on their own and then create a pizza with a tasting portion of each to see which one you prefer. From hot and spicy sausage to mild or sweet português sausage, there is something for everyone!
If you’re going classic, stick with traditional cured pork-based varieties. But don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone and experiment with different types.
Just remember to keep the other ingredients in mind – like how much sauce you’re using – as they can also affect the taste of the delicious final product.
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I’m Vance Douglas, and I love making pizza. In fact, I love it so much that I decided to build my own oven to make it in. It’s a brick oven that I made myself, and it’s the best pizza oven you’ll ever find.
Making pizza is a passion of mine, and I’m always looking for new ways to make it even better. I’ve been making pizza for years, and I continue to learn more about the art every day. My goal is to create the perfect pizza, and I’m getting closer and closer every time.
