Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are a fun and tasty treat that brings together all the best flavors of pizza in a convenient little roll. Imagine soft dough wrapped around gooey melted cheese and spicy, salty pepperoni slices—perfect for snacking or a casual meal. They’re crispy on the outside and deliciously cheesy inside, making them a surefire hit for both kids and grown-ups.
I love making these when I want something quick and satisfying without the mess of a whole pizza. They’re super easy to eat with your hands, so they’re great for parties or just enjoying in front of the TV. Personally, I like to pop them in the oven until they’re golden brown and the cheese starts to bubble—it’s a simple step that makes all the difference.
One of my favorite ways to serve these rolls is with a little side of marinara sauce for dipping. It adds that extra punch of flavor and makes the whole experience feel even more like a pizza night. Whenever I make a batch, they disappear fast—everyone just can’t resist grabbing one after another!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: I prefer store-bought dough for ease, but homemade dough adds a fresh touch. If gluten-free is needed, there are good gluten-free dough options available now.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade. Tomato sauce with Italian herbs works well too. If you want less sauce, a light spread keeps the rolls less soggy.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts perfectly for that gooey texture. For a different flavor, try part mozzarella and part provolone or cheddar. Vegan cheese works in a pinch, but melts differently.
Pepperoni: Classic, spicy pepperoni adds the best flavor. Turkey or beef pepperoni are good alternatives if you want a less fatty option. You can also swap with sliced cooked sausage or omit for a veggie version.
Seasonings: Parmesan, Italian herbs, and garlic powder add a nice flavor boost on top. If you don’t have these, just brushing with olive oil and a pinch of salt works fine.
How Do I Roll and Cut the Dough Without It Falling Apart?
Rolling the dough tightly is key to keeping everything inside and making neat pizza rolls.
- Roll the dough evenly on a floured surface to prevent sticking.
- Spread sauce and cheese with a thin even layer—too much can cause leaks.
- Roll slowly but firmly starting from the longer edge, ensuring no air pockets.
- Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut clean 1-inch slices—don’t squish the roll as you cut.
- Arrange rolls cut-side up with some space so they bake evenly.
- If dough tears, gently pinch it back or press to seal before baking.
These tips helped me get perfect rolls every time, with gooey cheese inside and crispy golden crust outside!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and preventing sticking.
- Rolling pin – helps flatten the dough evenly for a uniform roll.
- Sharp knife or dental floss – makes neat, clean slices without squishing the rolls.
- Small bowl – for mixing the spice topping or herbs before sprinkling.
- Pastry brush – for lightly brushing olive oil on top for a golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, chicken, or veggie slices for different protein options.
- Mix in different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for extra flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives inside before rolling for more veggies.
- Season the top with crushed red pepper flakes or Italian herbs for extra zest and aroma.
Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 1 lb) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce, plus extra for dipping
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 30-40 slices pepperoni
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. You’ll spend just a bit of time rolling and slicing the dough, then let the oven do the work. Overall, this tasty snack can be ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to keep the pizza rolls from sticking.
2. Roll Out and Add Toppings:
On a lightly floured surface, roll your pizza dough into a rectangle about 12 by 10 inches. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, then place the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
3. Roll, Slice, and Season:
Carefully roll the dough up tightly starting from the longer side to form a log. Use a sharp knife to cut this log into 1-inch thick slices. Arrange these slices cut-side up on your prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil.
4. Add Seasoning and Bake:
Mix together Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle this flavorful mixture over the tops of the pizza rolls. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
5. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the pizza rolls cool for about 5 minutes. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy pepperoni pizza rolls—perfect for sharing or snacking anytime!
Can I Use Frozen Pizza Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the dough completely in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and ensure even baking.
Can I Make Pepperoni Pizza Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake them as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes if they’re chilled.
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza Rolls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through—this keeps them crispy.
What Can I Serve with These Pizza Rolls?
I recommend serving them with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. A simple side salad or steamed veggies also make great accompaniments for a balanced meal.