Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
These Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are a fun and portable twist on classic pizza. They're filled with melted mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and tangy tomato sauce, all wrapped in a golden, crisp roll. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a casual meal.
Equipment
- Small bowl
- Large bowl
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
- serrated knife
- Rolling Pin
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water 105-115°F
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices, quartered
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Melted butter optional, for brushing
- Additional garlic powder optional, for topping
- Additional Parmesan cheese optional, for topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped optional, for topping
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead with a dough hook in a stand mixer for 6-8 minutes.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled 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.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet.
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches.
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, Parmesan cheese (if using), Italian seasoning, and garlic powder over the sauce.
- Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
- Using a serrated knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls.
- Place the rolls, cut-side up, onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and brush with melted butter, if desired. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley, if using.
- Let cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm.
Notes
Make-Ahead Instructions: You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they're cold.
Storage Tips: Leftover baked rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven, microwave, or air fryer until warmed through. If you want to make a big batch and freeze them, bake as directed, let cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little kick. Sneak in some finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham to the pepperoni for an extra meaty treat.
Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or pesto.
Storage Tips: Leftover baked rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven, microwave, or air fryer until warmed through. If you want to make a big batch and freeze them, bake as directed, let cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little kick. Sneak in some finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham to the pepperoni for an extra meaty treat.
Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or pesto.