Dragon Scale Appetizer (Printable)

Layered spicy pepperoni and smooth cheese create a striking dragon scale appetizer.

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 5 oz thinly sliced pepperoni

→ Cheese

02 - 5 oz semi-firm cheese (provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar), sliced into thin rounds or half-moons

→ Bread Base (optional)

03 - 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds, or gluten-free crackers

→ Garnishes

04 - Fresh basil or parsley leaves (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F if serving warm or to slightly melt cheese.
02 - If using, place baguette slices or gluten-free crackers on a serving platter or baking sheet.
03 - Starting at one end of each base or directly on platter, place a semi-circle of cheese with the straight edge aligned to the base edge. Overlap a pepperoni slice over the rounded edge of the cheese to create a layered scale effect. Continue alternating cheese and pepperoni slices, overlapping slightly to mimic dragon scales.
04 - Repeat the layering process until the entire base or platter is covered with the scale pattern.
05 - For a warm appetizer, bake assembled pieces for 5 to 7 minutes until cheese just melts and pepperoni crisps slightly.
06 - Garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves if desired and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It looks like you spent way more time than you actually did, which is the best kind of cooking secret.
  • The warm cheese gets creamy while the pepperoni edges crisp up, creating this perfect textural contrast that keeps you reaching for more.
  • You can make it with whatever cheese you have on hand and still get stunning results.
02 -
  • Don't slice your cheese too thick or it won't drape properly and the whole scale effect falls apart—aim for translucent thin if you can.
  • If your pepperoni is too thick, it won't overlap smoothly, so buying it sliced from the deli is worth the extra two minutes.
03 -
  • Slice everything the night before and store it layered with parchment between pieces so you can assemble in minutes and focus on the presentation when people arrive.
  • If your cheese won't cooperate, pop it in the freezer for 15 minutes before slicing—cold cheese is dramatically easier to work with and holds its shape beautifully.
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