Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups are the ultimate answer to pizza night cravings without the fuss. With just a handful of basic ingredients and one baking sheet, you can whip up a party snack or speedy meal that always disappears fast at my house. These roll-ups are gooey, crisp, and perfectly dippable—ideal for busy evenings or weekend gatherings.

The first time I tried these was for a last-minute game night and now they are my go-to when my nephews visit. They love dunking them in extra marinara and always ask for seconds.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza dough: This offers convenience and bakes up golden and crisp every time. Look for brands without too many additives for best flavor.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty stretchy and classic—grab a block and shred it yourself for best melt and taste.
• Sliced pepperoni: Choose slices with a little spice and snap for classic flavor or try turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For a salty kick and extra savory crust. Freshly grated gives the best flavor.
• Italian seasoning: This adds herbal depth.
• Garlic powder: Brings subtle garlicky warmth to every bite. Look for pure garlic powder not garlic salt.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle heat if you like things spicy.
• Egg: Used as an egg wash to create that shiny bakery finish. Fresh and free-range eggs make a noticeable difference.
• Marinara sauce: Choose a thick flavorful marinara for dipping. Homemade or high-quality jarred works great.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Sheet:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking tray with parchment to stop sticking and for easy cleanup.

Roll the Dough:

On your counter scatter a light layer of flour and gently roll out your pizza dough into a large rectangle about a quarter inch thick. Careful not to stretch it too thin or your fillings might escape.

Layer the Toppings:

Spread the mozzarella cheese across the dough making sure to leave a border around the edges so the cheese does not leak while baking. Layer the pepperoni slices evenly on top of the cheese.

Season and Sprinkle:

Scatter the grated Parmesan cheese next all over. Then shake on Italian seasoning garlic powder and add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want a spicy kick. This step really builds flavor into every bite.

Roll It Up:

From a long side carefully roll up the dough into a tight log. Tuck any loose pieces in as you go. Once fully rolled pinch the ends to seal in the cheese and meat. If there is excess dough on the ends trim it off so the slices bake up neatly.

Slice and Arrange:

Using a sharp knife slice the roll into pieces about one inch thick. Place each piece on the baking tray with the cut side up so you see the spiral.

Egg Wash:

Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give a glossy golden finish after baking. This also helps the edges stay perfectly crisp.

Bake:

Place the filled tray in the hot oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes. The roll-ups should puff and turn a deep golden color.

Serve:

Let them rest a few minutes to set before serving so no cheese spills out. Serve with lots of warm marinara sauce for dipping.

I always look forward to the golden Parmesan on top—it reminds me of helping my sister make garlic bread as kids. We would each sprinkle the cheese on and try to sneak a taste before it hit the oven.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They reheat best in the oven for that crisp crust. If freezing wrap roll-ups tightly and reheat at 350 degrees until heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the pepperoni for cooked sausage crumbled bacon or keep them vegetarian with sautéed vegetables. You can trade mozzarella for cheddar provolone or even a blend based on what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a bright green salad or a bowl of soup for a full meal. For parties set out a variety of dips such as ranch garlic butter or spicy tomato sauce.

Cultural and Historical Context

Pizza roll-ups take their cue from stromboli and pizza bread both classic Italian-American snacks. These fun pinwheels are a playful twist I started making when my youngest wanted pizza to go in her lunchbox.

Seasonal Adaptations

Add roasted peppers sundried tomatoes or artichokes for summer flair. Use spicy Italian sausage during winter months for heartiness. Top with a handful of fresh basil after baking for a spring twist.

Success Stories

These roll-ups made me a hero at my son’s birthday party. All his friends wanted the recipe and the adults hovered around waiting for the next batch.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Freeze unbaked slices on a tray then transfer to a bag for quick snacks. They can go straight into the oven from frozen with just a few extra minutes of bake time.

With a little planning and creativity pizza roll-ups can fit into any season or occasion. Even after all these batches I still love how excited everyone gets when they see these on the table.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for varied flavor and texture.

→ What other toppings can be added inside the dough?

Try adding sliced olives, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked sausage to customize the filling to your taste.

→ How do I prevent the roll-ups from unrolling during baking?

Pinch the edges of the dough firmly and place each piece cut-side up. The egg wash also helps to seal and create a golden crust.

→ Can these roll-ups be made ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and slice them, then chill until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ Is it possible to freeze the roll-ups?

Freeze baked or unbaked roll-ups. Reheat in the oven until hot and crisp when ready to serve.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these?

Classic marinara is perfect, but ranch, garlic butter, or spicy tomato sauce also complement the flavors well.