Easy Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls Recipe
If you’ve ever wished for a snack that combines all the flavors of your favorite pizza but in a fun, handheld roll, then Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are exactly what you need. Bursting with melted cheese, zesty pepperoni, and fluffy dough, these rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for parties, quick dinners, or anytime cravings. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, this recipe brings together simple ingredients for an unforgettable treat that feels like a slice of pizza wrapped in a delightful roll.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy days or last-minute guests.
- Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the familiar pizza flavors in a portable bite.
- Customizable: You can easily swap or add ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Great for Parties: Easy to make in batches and always a hit on any snack table.
- Perfect Leftover Snack: Reheats beautifully, keeping the flavors fresh and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of basic but flavorful components that come together to create layers of taste and enjoyment. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of texture, spice, and gooeyness.
- Pizza Dough: Use store-bought or homemade for a soft and chewy base that holds the filling well.
- Pepperoni Slices: Classic thin slices bring that spicy, savory kick that defines pepperoni pizza rolls.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey, melty cheese that binds everything into deliciousness.
- Marinara Sauce: A flavorful tomato sauce that adds moisture and authentic pizza flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs adds aromatic, savory notes for that perfect pizza vibe.
- Olive Oil: Brushed on top for a golden, crispy finish once baked.
Variations for Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
This recipe is incredibly flexible, so don’t hesitate to tweak it according to your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. These variations keep the base delicious while mixing things up for new flavor experiences.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives for a veggie-packed option.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni for more heat.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Mix mozzarella with cheddar or parmesan for extra cheesy rolls.
- Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat or gluten-free dough for a healthier or diet-specific alternative.
- Sauce Variations: Try BBQ sauce or pesto instead of marinara for a fun twist.
How to Make Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, roughly about 12 by 15 inches, so there’s enough room to layer the ingredients evenly.
Step 2: Add Your Sauce and Herbs
Spread an even layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges, then sprinkle Italian seasoning for that authentic pizza aroma.
Step 3: Layer on Cheese and Pepperoni
Scatter shredded mozzarella evenly across the sauced dough, then add pepperoni slices on top, ensuring every roll will have that perfect pepperoni bite.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, pinch the seam to seal, then slice into 1 to 1.5-inch thick rolls.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the rolls cut side up on a greased baking sheet, brush them lightly with olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Making Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
- Use Cold Dough: If using store-bought dough, let it warm slightly but keep it cool for easier rolling.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much sauce or cheese can make the rolls soggy and hard to seal.
- Brush with Oil: Olive oil or melted butter on top encourages a beautifully golden crust.
- Experiment with Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and provolone adds great flavor complexity.
- Let Cool Before Serving: This keeps the filling intact and makes them easier to handle.
How to Serve Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness, or dust lightly with grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.
Side Dishes
Pair your pizza rolls with a crisp green salad or a bowl of tangy marinara or ranch dressing for dipping to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the rolls on a wooden serving board surrounded by small bowls of dipping sauces or stack them in a colorful basket lined with a pizza-themed napkin for a festive touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezing
Freeze unbaked rolls after slicing on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer bag; bake directly from frozen by adding 5-10 minutes to cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat rolls in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes or in a toaster oven to restore crisp edges and melt the cheese perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and allows you to control ingredients and texture for your rolls.
Are these pizza rolls suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze both unbaked and baked rolls safely and reheat them without losing much flavor or texture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, using a gluten-free pizza dough alternative allows you to enjoy these savory rolls without gluten worries.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella is classic, but mixing it with cheddar or provolone adds extra flavor and gooeyness.
How long do these pizza rolls keep after baking?
Store properly, and they stay fresh for up to 3 days refrigerated; reheat before serving to bring back that fresh-baked feel.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are a joyful way to bring all the beloved flavors of pizza into one convenient, shareable snack. Whether for a quick family dinner or a lively gathering, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor with every bite. Give it a try and watch these tasty rolls become your new favorite crowd-pleaser!
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Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are a delicious handheld snack that combines the classic flavors of pizza with melted mozzarella cheese, zesty pepperoni, and a soft, chewy dough. Perfect for quick dinners, parties, or anytime cravings, these rolls are easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike. With a golden, crispy crust brushed with olive oil and filled with authentic marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, they deliver an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying as a flavorful leftover snack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free dough)
Ingredients
For the Dough and Base
- 1 batch of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade), enough to roll out to 12 by 15 inches
Fillings
- Marinara sauce, enough to spread an even layer over the dough
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- Shredded mozzarella cheese, approximately 1 to 1¼ cups
- Pepperoni slices, about 20-25 thin slices
Finishing
- Olive oil, for brushing on top
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, roughly about 12 by 15 inches, so there’s enough room to layer the ingredients evenly.
- Add Your Sauce and Herbs: Spread an even layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges, then sprinkle Italian seasoning evenly for that authentic pizza aroma.
- Layer on Cheese and Pepperoni: Scatter shredded mozzarella evenly across the sauced dough, then add pepperoni slices on top, ensuring every roll will have that perfect pepperoni bite.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, pinch the seam to seal securely, then slice into 1 to 1.5-inch thick rolls for even baking.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the rolls cut side up on a greased baking sheet, brush them lightly with olive oil to encourage a golden crisp crust, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Use Cold Dough: If using store-bought dough, let it warm slightly but keep it cool for easier rolling.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much sauce or cheese can make the rolls soggy and hard to seal.
- Brush with Oil: Olive oil or melted butter on top encourages a beautifully golden crust.
- Experiment with Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and provolone adds great flavor complexity.
- Let Cool Before Serving: This keeps the filling intact and makes them easier to handle.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180-220 kcal
- Sugar: 2-3 g
- Sodium: 400-500 mg
- Fat: 10-12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4-6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3-4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18-22 g
- Fiber: 1-2 g
- Protein: 8-10 g
- Cholesterol: 25-30 mg
Keywords: pepperoni pizza rolls, homemade pizza rolls, pizza snack, party appetizers, cheesy pizza rolls, handheld pizza