Pepperoni Pizza Fries – Crispy, Cheesy, and Impossible to Resist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pepperoni Pizza Fries are the ultimate mash-up of two comfort food favorites. Crispy fries become the base for melty cheese, savory pepperoni, and classic pizza flavors, all baked together into one irresistible dish. This recipe is perfect when you want something fun, indulgent, and guaranteed to please a crowd.

What makes these pizza fries especially appealing is how easy they are to prepare. Using frozen fries keeps things simple, while the toppings transform them into something that feels bold and exciting. I tested this recipe with different fry styles and found that thicker fries hold up best under the sauce and cheese. Whether served as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or casual dinner, Pepperoni Pizza Fries deliver big flavor with minimal effort.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Pepperoni Pizza Fries – Crispy, Cheesy, and Impossible to Resist


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

Crispy baked fries topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and spicy pepperoni slices for a fun, shareable pizza-inspired appetizer.


Ingredients

  • 1 bag (28 oz / 800 g) frozen French fries
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Spread frozen fries in a single layer and bake according to package instructions until crispy.
  3. Remove fries from oven and reduce heat to 200°C (400°F).
  4. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over the fries.
  5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
  6. Top with pepperoni slices, oregano, garlic powder, and parmesan cheese.
  7. Return to oven and bake for 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use air fryer fries for extra crispiness.
  • Add olives or bell peppers for extra pizza flavor.
  • Serve with ranch or extra marinara for dipping.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Frozen French fries
Frozen fries provide a crisp, sturdy base. Thick-cut or crinkle fries work best because they stay crispy under the toppings.

Pepperoni
Pepperoni adds classic pizza flavor with a salty, slightly spicy bite. Sliced or mini pepperoni both work well.

Mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella creates that signature stretchy, melty texture that defines pizza-inspired dishes.

Pizza sauce
Pizza sauce adds acidity and familiar flavor, tying all the toppings together.

Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds sharpness and depth, enhancing the overall cheesy flavor.

Olive oil
Olive oil helps the fries crisp evenly during baking.

Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning adds herbal notes that reinforce the pizza theme.

Red pepper flakes
Red pepper flakes are optional but add a subtle heat that balances the richness.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 220°C and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the frozen fries evenly on the baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake according to package instructions until the fries are golden and crispy.

Remove the fries from the oven and reduce the temperature to 200°C. Spoon pizza sauce evenly over the fries, using just enough to coat without making them soggy. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by the pepperoni slices. Finish with Parmesan cheese and a light sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using, and serve immediately.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people as a snack or appetizer. Preparation time is about 5 minutes, with a baking time of 25 minutes. Total time required is roughly 30 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Pepperoni Pizza Fries are best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one day. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness. Microwaving is not recommended, as it softens the fries.

Variations and Customizations

Pepperoni Pizza Fries are highly customizable. For a meat-lover’s version, cooked sausage or bacon can be added alongside the pepperoni. If you prefer vegetables, sliced olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms work well and add extra texture.

Cheese can also be varied. A blend of mozzarella and provolone creates a richer melt, while a small amount of cheddar adds sharpness. For a spicier version, use spicy pepperoni or drizzle with hot sauce after baking.

If you want a heartier dish, these fries can be served with a side of ranch or extra pizza sauce for dipping. You can also turn them into individual portions by baking them in small oven-safe dishes for easy serving.

FAQs

What type of fries work best?

Thick-cut or crinkle fries hold up best under the toppings.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, cook the fries first, then add toppings and air fry briefly until the cheese melts.

How do I prevent soggy fries?

Use minimal sauce and fully crisp the fries before adding toppings.

Can I use homemade fries?

Yes, homemade fries work very well if baked until crisp.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the flavors are familiar and very popular with children.

Can I add extra sauce?

Yes, but add it sparingly to avoid sogginess.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Ranch, garlic sauce, or extra pizza sauce pair nicely.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, omit pepperoni and add vegetables instead.

Can I use shredded pizza cheese blend?

Yes, pizza cheese blends work perfectly.

Are these good for parties?

Yes, they are ideal for sharing and serving a crowd.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Pizza Fries are a fun, indulgent dish that combines crispy fries with all the best elements of pizza. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, they are perfect for gatherings, casual meals, or anytime you want a bold, cheesy snack. This recipe proves that comfort food mash-ups can be both simple and incredibly satisfying.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star