Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are little pockets of pizza goodness rolled up into a perfect bite-sized snack. They’re filled with melty cheese, spicy pepperoni, and just the right amount of tomato sauce, all wrapped in soft, golden dough. These rolls are easy to hold, fun to eat, and perfect for when you want all the flavors of pizza without the fuss of slicing and serving a whole pie.
I love making these for movie nights or quick lunches because they’re so simple to pop in the oven or air fryer, and everyone always asks for seconds. A little tip I’ve picked up is to brush the rolls with a bit of garlic butter before baking—this gives them an extra flavor boost that really makes them pop. Plus, you can mix and match fillings to suit your taste, but pepperoni and cheese will never let you down.
Serving these warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping feels just right, like a cozy hug in food form. I’ve found that they’re a hit at parties too, disappearing fast from the platter as everyone reaches for one. Whenever I make these, it brings back fun memories of sharing snacks with friends and family, and I’m always excited to whip them up again soon.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza dough: Using refrigerated dough saves time and effort. If you want, homemade pizza dough works great too. For a gluten-free option, try store-bought gluten-free dough or flatbread.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a tangy flavor, but mozzarella gives a classic melty stretch. You can mix both or use provolone. For dairy-free, look for vegan cheese.
Pepperoni: Classic pepperoni gives the rolls their signature spicy, smoky kick. If you prefer less spice, try turkey pepperoni or sliced salami.
Pizza sauce: Use your favorite marinara or pizza sauce. If you like it spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce before spreading.
How Do I Roll and Seal the Dough Without the Filling Leaking?
Rolling and sealing properly keeps the filling inside, so nothing spills out during baking. Here’s how I do it:
- Spread your sauce, pepperoni, and cheese evenly but don’t overload. Too much filling makes sealing tricky.
- When you start rolling, tuck the edges in slightly to create a tight bundle.
- Roll firmly but gently to avoid tearing the dough.
- Place the rolls seam-side down on the baking sheet. This helps seal the edges naturally as they bake.
- If you want extra security, you can brush the edges with a little water or egg wash before rolling.
Following these tips reduces leaks, making neat, tasty pizza rolls every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I like a rimmed one to keep everything contained and make cleaning easier.
- Parchment paper – keeps the rolls from sticking and makes cleanup simple.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll out the dough evenly for consistent rolls.
- Knife or pizza cutter – cuts the dough into even rectangles for uniform rolls.
- Brush – for applying the seasoned olive oil on top of the rolls, giving them a nice golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage or chopped cooked bacon; these add different savory flavors.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for a veggie twist.
- Use different cheeses like provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend for varied melting and flavor.
- Add herbs like basil or oregano to the sauce or sprinkle on top before baking for extra aroma.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough (about 13.8 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella cheese)
- 20 slices pepperoni
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 to 18 minutes to bake. So, in less than 30 minutes, you’ll have warm, cheesy pepperoni pizza rolls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Roll and Cut the Dough:
On a clean surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle about 12 by 9 inches. Cut this into six equal rectangles for the rolls.
3. Add Sauce, Pepperoni, and Cheese:
Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce evenly over each rectangle. Then, place 3 or 4 slices of pepperoni on top. Finish with 2 to 3 tablespoons of shredded cheese, spreading it evenly over the pepperoni.
4. Roll and Seal:
Carefully roll up each rectangle starting from one of the long sides. Tuck in the edges as you go to keep the filling sealed inside. Place each roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Season and Bake:
Mix the olive oil with garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture over the tops of the pizza rolls to create a golden, tasty crust when baked. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until rolls are golden brown and the cheese inside has melted.
6. Cool and Serve:
Remove the pizza rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Pepperoni Pizza Rolls!
Can I Use Frozen Pizza Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! Just thaw the frozen dough in the refrigerator overnight before using, then roll it out as directed. This helps the dough become pliable and easy to work with.
Can I Make Pepperoni Pizza Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Prepare the rolls up to step 8, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, brush with the seasoning mixture and bake as instructed.
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza Rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I Customize the Filling?
Definitely! Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, bacon, or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also mix different cheeses to suit your taste.
