The moment I pulled these golden-brown pepperoni rolls from the oven, the cheerful aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite pizzeria. Crunchy on the outside and filled with melty mozzarella and zesty pepperoni, these rolls are the ultimate game-day snack or a fun after-school treat. With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of baking, they’re incredibly easy to whip up!
Imagine serving these delightful bites alongside a warm marinara dip as the big game plays on TV or a gathering of friends fills your home. Beyond their fantastic flavor, what I love most is their versatility. Feel free to swap the mozzarella for smoked provolone or mix in some veggies for an unexpected twist. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a lively sports night, these pepperoni rolls are bound to steal the show. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that promises to make your taste buds dance!
Why are Pepperoni Rolls a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: With just 15 minutes of prep time, anyone can whip up these delicious treats.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of zesty pepperoni and gooey mozzarella creates an irresistible taste that’s sure to please.
Versatile Snack: Customize the filling with different cheeses or add chopped veggies for a twist on flavor.
Perfect for Sharing: Great as a game day snack, these rolls are ideal for gatherings and will impress your guests.
Easy to Prepare Ahead: Make them in advance and simply pop them in the oven when it’s time to serve.
These mouthwatering pepperoni rolls are sure to be a hit and make the perfect addition to any meal or party.
Pepperoni Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- Pizza Dough – Use store-bought for convenience, or go homemade for a touch of love.
For the Filling
- Pepperoni – Adds a spicy, savory flavor; turkey pepperoni is a great lower-fat substitute.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Delivers that melty goodness; swap for smoked provolone for a flavor boost.
For the Topping
- Seasoned Butter – Brushed on for richness; garlic-infused olive oil is a lighter option.
For Dipping
- Marinara Sauce – Complements the flavors wonderfully; try ranch or garlic sauce for a fun twist.
These pepperoni rolls are not just any snack – they are the perfect game day treat!
How to Make Pepperoni Rolls
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Prepare the Filling: Roll out a rectangle of pizza dough, ensuring it’s about ¼-inch thick. Evenly distribute the pepperoni and mozzarella cheese over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for sealing.
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Roll the Dough: Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, pressing to seal the edges well. This will help keep the filling secure as they bake to perfection.
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Slice the Rolls: Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled dough into 1-inch sections. Place each slice cut-side up on a lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll for expansion.
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Brush with Butter: Melt the seasoned butter and generously brush it over the tops of each roll. This will give them a lovely golden color and added flavor once baked.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pepperoni rolls for 25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen!
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Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a plate. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy the cheers from your guests!
Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pepperoni Rolls?
Imagine the aroma of warm, cheesy pepperoni rolls mingling with delightful sides that elevate your snack game. Let’s explore what can complement these tasty bites for an unforgettable meal.
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Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and rich, these mashed potatoes add a comforting touch that balances the spiciness of the rolls.
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Crisp Caesar Salad: The fresh crunch and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of the rolls.
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Zesty Coleslaw: This crunchy and slightly tangy slaw enhances the flavor profile and brings a fresh element to the hearty rolls.
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Marinara Sauce: Of course, having a rich, homemade marinara to dip in heightens the entire experience, echoing the pizza flavors within the rolls.
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Buffalo Chicken Dip: For those who crave excitement, this spicy dip offers a bold pairing that’s sure to thrill guests at any gathering.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks offer an irresistible texture and taste, making them a perfect sidekick alongside the pepperoni rolls.
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Chilled Lemonade: This zesty drink keeps things refreshing, balancing the savory rolls with a bright, citrusy note.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note, and the gooey chocolate pairs delightfully with the warmth of the freshly baked rolls.
With these pairings, your pepperoni rolls are sure to shine, whether at a game day gathering or a cozy family dinner!
Make Ahead Options
These Pepperoni Rolls are fantastic for meal prep and make busy weeknights so much easier! You can prepare the rolls up to 24 hours before baking; simply assemble them, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This allows the dough to rise slowly, enhancing its flavor. For the best results, let the prepared rolls sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes to enjoy their deliciousness again. By prepping these ahead, you can enjoy warm, cheesy treats with minimal effort come game day!
Pepperoni Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative with these pepperoni rolls and make them your own with some exciting twists!
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Cheese Swap: Substitute mozzarella with smoked provolone or a blend of your favorite cheeses for robust flavor. Each cheese brings a unique character that elevates the roll.
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Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the filling for a veggie-packed twist that complements the pepperoni beautifully. The added freshness enhances the overall taste dynamically.
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Heat It Up: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the filling for a spicy kick. Feel the warmth blooming in every bite!
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Herb Infusion: Mix finely chopped basil or oregano into the seasoned butter for extra aroma and flavor. Fresh herbs brighten the rolls while they bake, giving a garden-fresh touch.
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Caramelized Onions: Sweeten the filling with caramelized onions, pairing delightfully with the zesty pepperoni and gooey cheese. This variation adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
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Dipping Sauce Variations: Experiment with different dipping sauces like creamy ranch, zesty aioli, or fragrant pesto for a delightful complement that opens a world of flavors.
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Bread Alternative: Try using crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough for a softer, flaky texture. This adds a delightful contrast filled with savory goodness.
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Cheesy Crust: For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan on top of the rolls before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust. It’s like the cherry on top for cheese lovers!
Each of these variations allows you to tailor the pepperoni rolls to suit your taste preferences—happy cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Pepperoni Rolls
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Room Temperature: Store leftover pepperoni rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and enjoyable for snacking.
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Fridge: Place the rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, warming them at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat frozen pepperoni rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes, ensuring they’re heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
Expert Tips for Pepperoni Rolls
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Roll Tightly: Ensure the dough is rolled tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking, creating perfect pepperoni rolls every time.
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Seasoned Butter Boost: For a flavor-enhancing twist, try incorporating garlic powder or Italian herbs into the seasoned butter for added depth in taste.
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Prevent Over-baking: Keep an eye on the rolls towards the end of baking. If they’re browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil to avoid burning.
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Experiment with Cheese: Don’t hesitate to mix cheeses! Using a blend of mozzarella and cheddar can elevate the flavor profile and texture of the rolls.
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Prep Ahead: If you’re making these pepperoni rolls for a gathering, prepare them a day ahead. Just refrigerate the unbaked rolls and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Pepperoni Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of pizza dough should I use?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience or make your own for a personal touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try whole wheat or gluten-free dough for different flavor profiles.
How should I store leftover pepperoni rolls?
Once baked and cooled, store leftover pepperoni rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 3 days, making sure to reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes for the best texture.
Can I freeze pepperoni rolls?
Yes, you can! After baking and cooling, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If you encounter sticky dough, don’t worry! You can lightly flour your work surface and hands to make the rolling process easier. Just be cautious not to add too much flour, as it can affect the texture of your pepperoni rolls.
Are there dietary alternatives for this recipe?
Very! If you’re looking for lower-fat options, substitute traditional pepperoni with turkey pepperoni or even veggies like spinach and bell peppers for a tasty twist. If anyone in your household has cheese allergies, you can use dairy-free cheese replacements that melt well.
Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the rolls in advance; just place the unbaked rolls in the fridge for up to a day. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This makes them super convenient for game days or gatherings!
Delicious Pepperoni Rolls: Your New Game Day Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Roll out a rectangle of pizza dough to about ¼-inch thick and distribute the pepperoni and mozzarella cheese over the dough, leaving a border for sealing.
- Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, pressing to seal the edges.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled dough into 1-inch sections and place each slice cut-side up on a lined baking sheet.
- Melt the seasoned butter and brush it over the tops of each roll.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving them warm with marinara sauce.