The 3 best pepperoni balls in Erie, according to our readers

Pepperoni balls are a savory treat you can only find in Erie. Here’s where to get the best

When I think of iconic Erie foods, pepperoni balls are one of the first items that come to mind. Other contenders include a Smith’s hotdog, ox roast, Lake Erie perch, and Romolo’s sponge candy.

After leaving Erie in 2008 and moving out to Colorado, I didn’t think I’d miss a single thing about the Gem City…until I got a hankering for a pepperoni ball. 

For those unfamiliar, a pepperoni ball is not a pepperoni roll, pepperoni bread, or any sort of frozen pizza roll. And since my friends in Denver were trying to be helpful, they attempted to quell my cravings by offering me the above items. If you’re from Erie, you know: a pepperoni ball craving can only be solved by eating the real thing (with a side of ranch). It’s the Lake-effect version of IYKYK.

An Erie pepperoni ball is about the size of my fist. Its dough is made from flour, salt yeast, pepperoni, salt, a few preservatives, and a whole lot of love. The dough is then textured and deep-fried for the perfect crunch. Then, the hot pepperoni ball is served with fresh marinara sauce or ranch. Unhealthy, yes. Perfectly delicious, also yes. 

I now live in Pittsburgh, and whenever I visit my brother I make a point to stop and grab some Staganelli’s. That’s because they’re the original (allegedly), and as a yinzer, I don’t know any better. My cousin Steph insisted that International Bakery is now the best, but that’s one woman’s opinion. I’ve also heard great things about Theresa’s pepperoni balls, and I’ve always loved their sandwiches. How bad could their pepperoni balls be?

After sixteen years away from pepperoni ball paradise, I felt that the Keystone crew just had to ask Erie’s foodies which pepperoni ball is the best in town. After dozens of votes came in, here are your top 3 choices.

Keystone photo: Stacy Rounds

3. International Bakery

First on our list is the International Bakery, established in 1924 by the Corsale family. This was my cousin Steph’s pick for best pepperoni balls in Erie, and it was also the top pick for dozens of our readers. 

International Bakery has a long-standing reputation for producing the area’s best Italian baked goods, such as Italian bread, cookies, cannoli, cakes, traditional Easter bread, pizzelles, and more. But even on their logo, you will find the words “pepperoni balls.” Because this old-school Italian bakery takes pride in making them right.

Is it the authenticity or dedication to quality that our readers love? Or is it that their pepperoni balls carry the crunch without the added texture? I’ve heard that their selection has a nice chewy center, elevating the experience. Also, you can stop by and grab a batch fresh and hot out of the oven. How amazing is that? With countless positive reviews, it’s no wonder the International Bakery is a go-to destination for anyone craving pepperoni balls.

2. Art’s Bakery

Next, we have Art’s Bakery, an Erie staple since 1950. Opened by Arthur Evans after his service in WW2, Art’s Bakery was a result of Art’s distaste for how big grocery stores operated. For 72 years, the Evans ran this local staple known for its amazing cookies and other baked delights. In 2021, the Sutton family took over Art’s and continues to keep Art’s legacy going. Locals love the great quality and prices, comparing them to bigger grocery chains, like Wegman’s.

But what about the pepperoni balls? What makes Art’s better than others? The secret to Art’s Bakery’s success lies in its innovative approach to this classic snack. Not only does Art’s serve up pepperoni balls at a competitive price, but they’ve also added cheese and hot peppers to some of their selections. Plus, Arts puts out a pretty amazing pepperoni bread. I know, it’s not the same as pepperoni balls, but it’s a dang good party offering if you’re looking to stretch your budget.

The bakery’s commitment to quality and creativity has earned it a special place in the hearts of pepperoni ball lovers. If you’re looking to try something a little different, Art’s Bakery should definitely be on your list.

Keystone photo: Stacy Rounds

1. Staganelli’s

Color me not at all shocked that Staganelli’s landed at the top of the pepperoni ball list. Staganelli’s is the go-to household name when it comes to pepperoni balls in Erie. One of the secrets to Staganelli’s enduring popularity is their commitment to quality and consistency. Online reviews mention the perfect balance of spice and the irresistible texture that keeps them coming back for more. Take it from a one-time local: there’s just something about Staganelli’s pepperoni balls that feels like home.

This local institution has garnered national attention for its pepperoni-stuffed golden balls of goodness. Staganelli’s once shipped an impressive 18,000 pepperoni balls to Memphis, TN for a QVC segment, which sold out even before it aired. The demand for these tasty treats was so high that Staganelli’s sold $82,000 worth of pepperoni balls before the segment even began broadcasting.

Staganelli’s is known for its pepperoni balls, calzones, meatballs, pastas, sauces, and assorted breads and has been going strong since 1961. Staganelli’s is also known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. And if you don’t feel like making the trip in, you can find Staganelli’s treats in the freezer section at Tops Friendly Markets.

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