Pepperoni Pizza Rolls

This hearty homemade pepperoni pizza rolls recipe transforms classic pizza flavors into delicious bite-sized treats that will disappear quickly at any gathering. The soft, pillowy dough wraps around gooey cheese, zesty sauce, and savory pepperoni for an irresistible snack that brings the pizzeria experience right to your home kitchen.

I first made these pizza rolls for my nephew's birthday party when the delivery pizza place cancelled last minute. The panic quickly turned to triumph when these rolls became the unexpected star of the celebration, with several parents asking for the recipe before they left.

Ingredients

• Homemade pizza dough The foundation of these rolls gives them that authentic pizzeria chew and flavor you simply cannot get from pre-made dough
• Olive oil Adds richness to the dough surface and helps create those beautiful golden edges
• Pizza sauce Use a high quality store bought sauce or make your own for the best flavor impact
• Italian seasoning or ground basil Classic pizza flavor enhancers that bring warmth and aromatic notes
• Garlic powder A must for authentic pizza flavor that enhances all the other ingredients
• Mozzarella cheese Look for whole milk low moisture mozzarella for the best melt and stretch
• Pepperoni Opt for a quality brand with good spice level and minimal grease
• Yellow cornmeal Optional but adds a wonderful textural element and prevents sticking
• Fresh basil Brings brightness and color to the finished dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Follow your pizza dough recipe through the initial rise. When properly risen, the dough should be soft, elastic, and nearly doubled in size. A good dough is the foundation for exceptional pizza rolls, so take your time with this step.

Shape and Fill

Divide the dough in half and roll each piece into a 10x12 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. The rectangles should be even in thickness throughout to ensure consistent rolls. Brush with olive oil and create slight indentations with your fingertips across the surface to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.

Add the Toppings

Spread pizza sauce in a thin, even layer across each dough rectangle, leaving about half an inch border around the edges. Sprinkle with seasonings, then add an even layer of cheese and arrange pepperoni slices in rows for consistent distribution in every bite.

Roll and Chill

Carefully roll each rectangle into a tight log, starting from the long edge. Work slowly to maintain tension in the roll, which prevents gaps in the finished product. Place seam side down on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up the rolls, making them easier to slice cleanly.

Slice and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper. Cut each chilled log into twelve 1-inch slices using a sharp knife. For extra texture, dip the bottom of each roll in cornmeal before placing on the baking sheet.

Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Watch carefully during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning. Allow to cool slightly before serving to let the molten filling set up a bit.

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My family has a tradition of making these rolls together on Friday nights. My daughter loves to help roll out the dough while my son is in charge of arranging the pepperoni in perfect rows. These shared cooking moments have become some of our most cherished family memories, centered around these simple but delicious pizza rolls.

Storing Leftover Pizza Rolls

These pizza rolls maintain their texture and flavor wonderfully when stored properly. For best results, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They'll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through for best texture. Microwaving works in a pinch but will result in softer rolls without the crisp edges.

Creative Variations

The beauty of these pizza rolls lies in their versatility. Try swapping pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage, ham, or vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. For a vegetarian version, use a mix of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and roasted red peppers. Experiment with different cheese combinations like adding sharp cheddar or pepper jack for an interesting flavor profile. You can even create dessert versions with cinnamon sugar and cream cheese filling.

Serving Suggestions

Create an impressive appetizer spread by serving these pizza rolls alongside other finger foods like mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, and a vegetable platter. For dipping, offer warm marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter. If serving as a main course, pair with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette for a balanced meal. For a fun presentation, arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a large platter with a small bowl of dipping sauce in the center.

The History Behind Pizza Rolls

While our homemade version elevates the concept, pizza rolls were originally popularized as a frozen convenience food in the 1960s. The concept brilliantly transformed pizza into a finger food that captured the essence of Italian-American cuisine in bite-sized form. Making them from scratch connects us to the tradition of Italian rolled foods like stromboli while allowing for quality ingredients and customization that frozen versions simply cannot match.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use store-bought dough instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, you can substitute pre-made pizza dough from your grocery store to save time. While homemade dough offers the best flavor and texture, a quality store-bought dough works well for convenience.

→ Why do the rolls need to chill in the refrigerator before baking?

Chilling for at least 20 minutes helps firm up the dough logs, making them easier to slice cleanly without squishing. It also helps the rolls maintain their shape during baking and enhances the texture of the final product.

→ Can I add other fillings besides pepperoni?

Absolutely! These rolls are customizable with fillings like cooked sausage, ham, vegetables (bell peppers, olives, mushrooms), or different cheeses. Just ensure fillings are pre-cooked if needed and finely chopped to prevent tearing the dough.

→ What's the purpose of the cornmeal coating?

The cornmeal adds a pleasant textural contrast and prevents sticking, similar to traditional pizza. It creates a slight crunch on the bottom while helping the rolls brown nicely. This step is optional but recommended for authentic flavor.

→ How should I reheat leftover pizza rolls?

For best results, reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This maintains their texture better than microwave reheating, which can make them soggy. If frozen, add a few extra minutes to the reheating time.

→ Can I make these rolls ahead for a party?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the slicing stage and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake them ahead, cool completely, and reheat just before serving. They're also freezer-friendly for up to 3 months.