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Best Smoked Gouda & Pepperoni Charcuterie Board

smoked gouda pepperoni charcuterie board - featured image

A no-cook, crowd-pleasing charcuterie board featuring smoky gouda, spicy pepperoni, and simple pantry staples. Perfect for tailgating, game day, or any gathering where you want to impress without the stress.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz smoked gouda, sliced into thin triangles
  • 6 oz thick-cut pepperoni, sliced
  • 1 box club crackers or crostini
  • 1 cup red grapes, washed and dried
  • 1 cup dill pickle spears
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 3 tbsp whole-grain mustard
  • 1/2 cup mixed olives (Kalamata or Castelvetrano)
  • 1/2 cup roasted salted almonds or cashews
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cheese: Unwrap the smoked gouda and slice into thin triangles, about 1/4 inch thick. Leave the rind on. Arrange slices in a fan shape on one corner of the board.
  2. Layer the Pepperoni: Fold pepperoni slices in half and arrange in a line or small pile next to the cheese. Avoid stacking flat to prevent sticking.
  3. Add the Crackers: Place crackers or crostini in a separate section of the board, leaving space around them for easy grabbing.
  4. Arrange the Grapes: Place washed and dried grapes in a small cluster on the board, ideally near the cheese.
  5. Add the Pickles and Olives: Place pickle spears in a small bowl or directly on the board. Keep olives in a small ramekin to prevent brine from spreading. Position on opposite sides for balance.
  6. Fill in with Nuts: Sprinkle almonds or cashews in empty spaces on the board to fill gaps and add visual interest.
  7. Drizzle the Honey: Lightly drizzle honey over the smoked gouda slices in a zigzag pattern.
  8. Add the Mustard: Spoon whole-grain mustard into a small bowl and place it on the board near the pepperoni.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs over the board for color. Serve immediately at room temperature.

Notes

For best flavor, let the smoked gouda sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before assembling. Keep wet ingredients (pickles, olives, mustard) in separate bowls to prevent soggy crackers. If transporting, add crackers and nuts just before serving. The board can be assembled up to 4 hours in advance (without crackers/nuts) and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked gouda charcuterie board, pepperoni board, tailgate snacks, no-cook appetizer, game day food, easy charcuterie