Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are the perfect mix of crispy, cheesy, and a little bit spicy, all wrapped up in a tasty roll. Imagine that classic pizza flavor with gooey melted cheese, zesty pepperoni, and a soft, golden crust you can hold in your hand. They’re small bites of joy that make snacking seriously fun.
I love making these when I want something easy to snack on or serve at a casual get-together. They’re so simple to bake up and everyone always asks for seconds. One trick I like is brushing a little butter and garlic on the outside before baking; it adds an extra layer of yum without any fuss.
These pizza rolls are especially great when served warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. I have this mental image of a cozy weekend afternoon, family gathered around, passing around a plate of these rolls while chatting and laughing. They’re like little pockets of happiness that bring everyone closer together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza dough: This is the base for your rolls. Using refrigerated dough saves time, but you can also use homemade or frozen dough. For a gluten-free option, try store-bought gluten-free dough or flatbreads.
Mozzarella cheese: It melts beautifully and gives that classic pizza stretch. If you want something sharper, add a bit of Parmesan or cheddar. Vegan cheese works too if you prefer dairy-free.
Pepperoni: This adds spice and flavor. You could swap it for cooked sausage, ham, or even vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for a meatless version.
Marinara sauce: This keeps the rolls moist and flavorful. If you don’t have marinara, pizza sauce or even a little tomato paste mixed with herbs works well.
Butter mixture: Brushing butter with garlic and Italian seasoning adds flavor and helps the crust turn golden. Olive oil can be used as a substitute but won’t give quite the same richness.
How Can I Roll and Seal Pizza Rolls Without the Filling Leaking?
Rolling the dough tightly and sealing it well is key to keep all the cheesy, pepperoni goodness inside.
- Roll dough into a neat rectangle and spread filling evenly but don’t overload it.
- Roll tightly but gently from the long side, like a jelly roll, to prevent gaps.
- Pinch the seam firmly and fold in the edges to seal the ends.
- If dough feels dry, brush a bit of water along edges before sealing to help them stick.
- Place rolls cut side down on the baking tray to help prevent filling from oozing out during baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I like using a rimmed sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
- Rolling pin – helps flatten the dough smoothly and evenly, making rolling easier.
- Sharp knife or dental floss – I use a sharp knife to cut the rolls cleanly, or dental floss for a perfect cut without squishing them.
- Small bowl and brush – for mixing and applying the butter and herb topping for that golden, flavorful crust.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, ham, or sautéed vegetables to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to the sauce or butter mixture for a spicy kick or extra flavor.
- Mix in some cooked spinach or chopped olives inside the rolls for a veggie twist.
- Use different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a sharper or spicier flavor profile.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Rolls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (10 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20 slices pepperoni
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in about 30 minutes you can enjoy fresh, warm pepperoni pizza rolls that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 12 by 15 inches. This will give you a nice even surface to layer your toppings.
3. Add Sauce, Cheese, and Pepperoni:
Spread the marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges so it doesn’t leak out when rolled. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
4. Roll and Slice:
Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam and the edges to seal the roll well. Then, using a sharp knife, cut the log into six equal parts, about 2 inches each. Place each roll cut-side down on your prepared baking sheet.
5. Add Butter Topping and Bake:
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture over the tops of the rolls to give them a golden, flavorful crust. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the rolls cool for a few minutes after baking so they’re safe to eat. Serve them warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious pepperoni pizza rolls!
Can I Use Frozen Pizza Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the frozen dough completely in the fridge overnight before rolling it out. This helps the dough roll smoothly and bake evenly.
How Can I Make These Pizza Rolls Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the rolls and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 8 hours before baking. When ready, brush with the butter mixture and bake as directed. Alternatively, bake them fully, cool, and refrigerate or freeze for later reheating.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crispy.
Can I Customize the Filling?
Absolutely! Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, ham, or veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers. You can also use different cheeses or add extra herbs to suit your taste.