Description
This homemade beef pepperoni recipe delivers a savory, smoky, and slightly spicy cured meat perfect for pizza, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards. Made with lean ground beef, flavorful spices, and a touch of heat, this easy, no-fuss recipe lets you create authentic, preservative-free pepperoni at home!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Beef Pepperoni:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85-90% lean)
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp cure #1 (Prague Powder #1) (for safe curing)
- 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp fennel seeds, crushed
- ½ tsp coriander
- ½ tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp ground mustard
- 2 tbsp ice-cold water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, salt, and Prague Powder #1 until well combined.
- Add all spices and ice-cold water, then knead the mixture until it becomes tacky.
- Cover and refrigerate for 24-48 hours to let the flavors develop.
Step 2: Shape the Pepperoni
- Shape the mixture into 2-inch thick logs and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for another 12 hours to firm up.
Step 3: Cook the Pepperoni
Oven Method:
6. Preheat oven to 175°F (80°C).
7. Place pepperoni logs on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
8. Bake for 6-8 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C).
Smoker Method:
9. Preheat smoker to 160°F (71°C) and smoke for 6-7 hours, gradually increasing to 180°F.
10. Cook until the internal temp reaches 150°F.
Step 4: Cool and Store
- Let pepperoni cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 12 hours before slicing.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- For a firmer texture, dry the pepperoni in the fridge uncovered for 24 hours before slicing.
- Want it spicier? Increase the red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
- For extra smokiness, use liquid smoke in the beef mixture.
- Slicing tip: Chill or slightly freeze before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Snacks, Cured Meat
- Method: Baking, Smoking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 slices (~1 oz)
- Calories: 110 kca
- Sugar: ogr
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8gr
- Saturated Fat: 3gr
- Unsaturated Fat: 4gr
- Trans Fat: 0gr
- Carbohydrates: 1gr
- Fiber: 0gr
- Protein: 10gr
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: homemade beef pepperoni, cured beef recipe, spicy pepperoni, beef pepperoni pizza topping