Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll

Quick Benefits

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are a fun and flavorful snack that’s perfect for game days, movie nights, or a family pizza night. These rolls are quick to prepare, taking only about 35 minutes from start to finish, making them an excellent option when you want a savory treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Filled with gooey cheese, pepperoni, and a sprinkle of Italian spices, these pizza rolls are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

Essential Ingredients

• 1 (13.8 ounce) package Pillsbury® classic pizza crust: The base for the pizza rolls, which offers a soft and doughy texture.
• 1 cup marinara sauce: The key ingredient for that classic pizza flavor.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For a melty, gooey texture inside each roll.
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.
• ½ cup thinly sliced pepperoni: The star ingredient, giving the rolls a savory, meaty flavor.
• 2 tablespoons minced onion (Optional): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the rolls.
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the pizza flavor.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For an added savory kick.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (Optional): Adds a touch of heat if desired.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the dough: Place the pizza dough on a lightly floured work surface and press it into a rectangle shape.
2. Assemble the filling: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch of space along the edges. Top the sauce with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, pepperoni, and optional minced onion. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
3. Roll and refrigerate: Tightly roll up the dough into a log, pinching the seam to seal it. Refrigerate the dough log for 10 minutes to make slicing easier.
4. Slice the rolls: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the dough log into 12 individual rolls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
6. Serve: Serve the pizza rolls with the remaining marinara sauce, warmed, for dipping.

Health Benefits

While these pizza rolls are a delicious indulgence, they provide a good source of protein from the cheese and pepperoni, making them a satisfying snack. The dough offers carbohydrates for energy, and the option to include vegetables like onion adds some additional vitamins and minerals. However, they are best enjoyed in moderation due to their calorie content and the use of processed ingredients like pepperoni and pizza crust.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesy pepperoni pizza rolls are great as an appetizer, snack, or party food. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or vegetable platter to balance the richness. Pair them with a cold drink, like sparkling water or soda, for a complete snack experience. You can also dip them in additional marinara or a creamy ranch dressing for extra flavor.

Creative Variations

• Veggie Pizza Rolls: Replace the pepperoni with diced vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives for a vegetarian version.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls: Swap the pepperoni for cooked, shredded chicken and use barbecue sauce instead of marinara for a smoky twist.
• Spicy Pizza Rolls: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce inside the rolls for an extra spicy kick.
• Cheesy Garlic Pizza Rolls: Mix garlic powder into the pizza dough or sprinkle some garlic butter on top of the rolls before baking for a garlic-flavored treat.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover pizza rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also freeze the pizza rolls before baking. To do so, assemble the rolls, slice them, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overfill: To prevent the filling from oozing out during baking, avoid overstuffing the pizza rolls. A thin layer of sauce and a moderate amount of cheese and pepperoni work best.
• Refrigerate before slicing: Chilling the dough log for 10 minutes makes it much easier to slice the rolls neatly.
• Bake evenly: Make sure to space the pizza rolls evenly on the baking sheet to ensure they cook uniformly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough, like Pillsbury®, works perfectly for this recipe, but you can also make your own if you prefer.

Can I make these pizza rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls, refrigerate them, and bake them later. Alternatively, you can freeze the rolls before baking and bake them directly from frozen when ready to serve.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Definitely! You can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses, depending on your preference.

How do I prevent the rolls from unrolling during baking?
Ensure the dough is rolled tightly, and pinch the seam well to seal. Refrigerating the rolls before slicing also helps them maintain their shape.

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