PEPPERONI PIZZA ROLLS AMAZING

Craving that classic pizza flavor but need something quick, easy, and portable? These Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are the answer! Imagine biting into warm, cheesy, pepperoni-packed goodness, all nestled in a perfectly golden, flaky crust, and ready in under an hour – I promise, this recipe will become a new family favorite!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

For the Filling:

• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup pepperoni slices, quartered
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Optional: Garlic powder, red pepper flakes for extra flavor

For the Egg Wash (Optional):

• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water

Let’s Talk Dough: Your Pizza Roll Foundation

Okay, let’s be honest, the dough can sometimes feel a little intimidating, but trust me, it’s easier than you think! The key is getting the water temperature right for the yeast. Too hot, and you’ll kill it; too cold, and it won’t activate. Aim for that sweet spot between 105-115°F. Also, don’t be afraid to add a little extra flour if the dough is too sticky. We are aiming for a smooth, elastic dough that’s easy to work with. If you’re short on time, using store-bought pizza dough is totally acceptable! It’s a great shortcut that will save you a lot of time and energy, perfect for busy weeknights.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get Started with the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This means the yeast is alive and ready to go!
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Knead the Dough: If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for 5-7 minutes. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is where the magic happens! The dough needs time to develop its flavor and texture.

Assemble Your Pepperoni Pizza Rolls:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
3. Add the Sauce: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.
4. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella cheese, followed by the pepperoni slices and Parmesan cheese. Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, garlic powder and red pepper flakes if you like.
5. Roll It Up: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
6. Slice and Arrange: Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
7. Egg Wash (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash for a golden, shiny crust.

Bake to Perfection:

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Cool Slightly: Let the rolls cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
3. Serve and Enjoy!: Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping, if desired.

Tips & Tricks for Pizza Roll Success

Don’t be afraid to customize these Pepperoni Pizza Rolls! You can add different cheeses like provolone or cheddar. You can also swap out the pepperoni for other toppings like sausage, ham, mushrooms, or olives. For a vegetarian version, load them up with your favorite veggies like bell peppers, onions, and spinach. A little garlic powder added to the sauce can bring the flavour up a notch. Make sure you are working on a floured surface so the dough doesn’t stick when rolling it out. This is a great recipe for using up leftover ingredients in your fridge, so get creative!

Serving Suggestions: More Than Just a Snack

These pizza rolls are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect as a snack food dinner ideas for a casual weeknight meal. Serve them with a side salad or some Jalapeño Popper Rolls for a complete and satisfying meal. They’re also a fantastic appetizer for parties or game day gatherings. Looking for healthy game snacks? Try using whole wheat flour for the dough and lean turkey pepperoni for a slightly healthier twist. These pizza rolls are also great for meal prepping. You can make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week. They’re also a kid-friendly favorite, making them a great addition to lunchboxes. For an easy appetizer spread, you could also include a Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli.

Why These Pizza Rolls Are a Great Choice

These Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are not only delicious, but they can also be a surprisingly good source of protein. The cheese and pepperoni contribute to the high protein pepperoni pizza content, making them a more filling and satisfying snack or meal. If you are looking for high in protein foods meals on a budget, this recipe is a winner. You can easily adapt it to use cheap easy protein meals ingredients, such as less expensive cheeses or pepperoni brands. They’re also a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen. Plus, there is a reason pizza rolls are a classic party food – they are always a hit!

Variations and Add-Ins to Spice Things Up

Want to take your pizza rolls to the next level? Here are some fun variations to try. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Brush the tops with garlic butter before baking for extra flavor. Instead of pizza sauce, try using pesto or a creamy garlic sauce. For a gourmet twist, add some sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or Kalamata olives to the filling. Another delicious option is to make a dessert version using Nutella and marshmallows. If you have leftover dough, try making a Cheesy Garbage Bread as a side. You can even use this same dough to make some Pizza Sliders for a party. For a cheeseburger twist, you can try these Garlic Parm Cheeseburger Bombs!

Storing and Reheating Your Pizza Rolls

If you have any leftover pizza rolls (which is unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for a minute or two, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To freeze, place the cooled pizza rolls on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat frozen pizza rolls, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Final Thoughts: Get Rolling!

So, there you have it – a complete guide to making the most delicious Pepperoni Pizza Rolls ever! Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a fun appetizer, or a kid-friendly meal, this recipe is sure to please. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the fillings and toppings, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen. Happy rolling!