Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups: Easy Recipe & Baking Tips

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups: Prepare to meet your new favorite snack, appetizer, or even a fun weeknight dinner! Imagine all the comforting flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza, but in a perfectly portioned, handheld bite. These aren’t your average pizza rolls; they’re a delightful twist on a beloved comfort food that’s guaranteed to disappear in minutes.

Pizza, in its various forms, has a rich history, tracing back to ancient flatbreads. The modern pizza we know and love originated in Naples, Italy, and quickly spread worldwide, becoming a symbol of casual dining and shared meals. These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups take that global favorite and reimagine it for the modern palate, offering a convenient and playful way to enjoy those familiar flavors.

What makes these roll-ups so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The flaky, golden-brown crust gives way to a warm, gooey center of melted mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and savory pepperoni. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making them ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Plus, who can resist the satisfying pop of flavor in each bite? Get ready to experience pizza in a whole new, incredibly addictive way!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 package (13.8 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce, plus more for dipping
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, quartered
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, for sprinkling
• Optional: Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Preparing the Dough and Filling:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for ensuring the pizza roll-ups bake evenly and the cheese melts beautifully. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Unroll the pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. I like to use a large cutting board for this. If the dough is sticking, sprinkle a little more flour underneath. Gently stretch the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches. The thinner you can get it without tearing, the more rolls you’ll have!
3. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border (about 1/2 inch) around the edges. This border will help seal the roll-ups. Don’t overdo the sauce, or the roll-ups might get soggy. A thin, even layer is perfect.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Make sure to cover the entire surface, as this is what makes them cheesy and delicious! I prefer using low-moisture mozzarella for better melting and less sogginess.
5. Distribute the quartered pepperoni slices over the cheese. You can add more or less pepperoni depending on your preference. I find that quartering the slices helps them distribute evenly and prevents them from clumping together.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pepperoni. This adds a nice salty and nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella and pepperoni perfectly.

Rolling and Cutting:

7. Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Try to keep the roll as tight as possible to prevent gaps and ensure even baking. Pinch the seam to seal it.
8. Using a sharp, serrated knife, carefully slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls. I find that a serrated knife works best for cutting through the dough without squishing it. You should get about 12-16 rolls, depending on the size of your rectangle.
9. Place the rolls, cut-side up, onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each roll to allow for even baking.

Baking and Finishing:

10. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. This mixture will add flavor and help the rolls brown nicely.
11. Brush the tops of the rolls with the olive oil mixture. Be generous with the brushing, making sure to coat each roll evenly.
12. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. If they start to brown too quickly, you can tent them with foil.
13. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth on the hot cheese!
14. Optional: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little heat. I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
15. Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that complements the pizza roll-ups perfectly.
16. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping. These pizza roll-ups are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with plenty of pizza sauce for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the pepperoni with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or olives.
• Add some spice: Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into the pizza sauce or sprinkle them on top of the rolls before baking.
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Make it a meal: Serve the pizza roll-ups with a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Prepare ahead: You can assemble the pizza roll-ups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing Instructions: To freeze, bake the pizza rolls as directed and let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours, or until solid. Transfer the frozen rolls to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Dough Variations: While I typically use refrigerated pizza dough for convenience, you can absolutely use homemade pizza dough for an even more authentic flavor. Just be sure to roll it out to the appropriate thickness before adding the toppings. You could also experiment with different types of dough, such as whole wheat or gluten-free.
• Sauce Swaps: While classic pizza sauce is always a winner, don’t be afraid to get creative with your sauce choices. Pesto, marinara, or even a creamy garlic sauce would all be delicious alternatives.
• Cheese Combinations: For an extra cheesy experience, try combining different types of cheese. A blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan is always a good choice. You could also add a sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: To enhance the flavor of the pizza rolls, try adding some fresh herbs to the filling. Chopped basil, oregano, or thyme would all be delicious additions. You can also sprinkle some dried herbs on top of the rolls before baking.
• Garlic Butter Topping: For an extra layer of flavor, brush the baked pizza rolls with garlic butter. Simply melt some butter in a saucepan and stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Brush the mixture over the warm rolls and enjoy.
• Dipping Sauces Galore: While pizza sauce is a classic dipping choice, there are many other options to explore. Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo would all be delicious accompaniments.

Enjoy your homemade Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups! They’re perfect for parties, snacks, or a fun family dinner.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups are more than just a snack; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a simple weeknight dinner solution, and a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and that perfectly seasoned pizza sauce, all wrapped in a flaky, golden-brown crust, is simply irresistible. Plus, the individual roll-up format makes them incredibly convenient for parties, lunchboxes, or even a quick bite on the go.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different fillings to create your own signature roll-ups. Craving something spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy pepperoni. Vegetarian? Swap the pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. You could even try a Hawaiian version with ham and pineapple! The possibilities are truly endless.

For serving suggestions, I love to pair these roll-ups with a simple side salad for a complete meal. A classic Caesar salad or a fresh Caprese salad would be perfect. Alternatively, you can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces. Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a creamy garlic dip would all be delicious. If you’re serving them at a party, arrange them on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces for easy access.

These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups are also fantastic reheated! Simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or bake them in the oven until warmed through. They’re just as delicious the next day, making them a great option for meal prepping.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of pizza in a fun and portable format. I encourage you to give these Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

But don’t just take my word for it! Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get rolling! I’m so excited for you to experience the joy of making and enjoying these delicious treats.

Once you’ve tried the recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What dipping sauces did you use? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. So, go ahead, bake up a batch of these Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups and let me know what you think! Happy baking! I can’t wait to see your creations!