This old-fashioned pepperoni Caldwell patties recipe has the kind of simple, no-fuss comfort that makes it easy to see why it was worth saving from a 1982 community cookbook clipping. With just four ingredients, it turns out hearty, savory patties with plenty of pepperoni flavor and a bubbly provolone topping, all while staying low carb. It is the sort of dependable family supper that feels especially right when the weather starts cooling off and everybody wants something warm, filling, and a little nostalgic.
Serve these patties with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or cauliflower mash to keep the meal low carb and balanced. If you are feeding a mixed crowd, a basket of garlic bread or toasted rolls on the side works nicely for those who want something extra to soak up the cheesy, savory goodness from the baking dish.
Low Carb 4-Ingredient Pepperoni Caldwell Patties
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 large egg
24 slices pepperoni, chopped
8 slices provolone cheese
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a ceramic casserole dish or baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the ground beef, egg, and chopped pepperoni until just combined, then shape the mixture into 8 small oval or round patties.
3. Arrange the patties in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between them, and bake for 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned around the edges.
4. Top each patty with a slice of provolone cheese and return the dish to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations & Tips
For extra seasoning: If you like a little more flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or black pepper to the beef mixture. The original four-ingredient version is wonderfully simple, but a tiny seasoning boost can make it taste even heartier.
For picky eaters: Finely chop the pepperoni so it blends more smoothly into the patties. That way, kids or selective eaters still get the savory flavor without noticing larger pieces.
Make-ahead tip: Shape the patties earlier in the day and keep them covered in the refrigerator until dinnertime. When you are ready to cook, just place them in the baking dish and bake as directed, which makes busy evenings much easier.
Cheese swap: Mozzarella is a nice substitute if provolone is not on hand. It melts beautifully and gives the patties a slightly milder, extra-stretchy topping that works well for family dinners.