Soft, cheesy, and perfectly poppable, Pizza Rolls are the ultimate party starter, after-school treat, or just-because snack! Imagine everything you love about pizza—melty mozzarella, zesty sauce, and savory pepperoni—all twirled up in a golden, handheld bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or craving a fun twist on classic pizza, these little rolls make every moment feel like a special occasion. Get ready to meet your new go-to recipe for effortless, crowd-pleasing joy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these Pizza Rolls brings something special to the table—flavor, texture, or that unmistakable pizza aroma wafting from the oven. Gather up these basics and you’re already halfway to a deliciously homemade snack everyone will love.
- Refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade): The foundation for your soft and chewy rolls—use store-bought for convenience or homemade for a personal touch.
- Pizza sauce: Savory, tangy, and packed with classic Italian flavors, this sauce coats every bite perfectly.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty, stretchy cheese is a must for true pizza goodness.
- Mini pepperoni or chopped regular pepperoni: Adds a punch of salty, meaty flavor that’s classic and crowd-pleasing.
- Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of dried herbs brings home that pizzeria aroma and taste.
- Garlic powder: Just a dash for a fragrant kick and extra dimension.
- Olive oil: Helps create that gorgeous golden brown finish on top.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The final flourish for nutty, salty depth and a little crunch.
- Optional dipping sauce (extra pizza sauce or ranch): The perfect sidekick for dunking and extra flavor with every bite.
How to Make Pizza Rolls
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Preheat
Begin by firing up your oven to 400°F (200°C), giving it time to preheat while you work. Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper—this step ensures your Pizza Rolls won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Unroll your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface or a large piece of parchment. Roll or stretch it gently into a rectangle about 10×14 inches. If you’re going the homemade route, pat yourself on the back—freshly made dough makes these extra special!
Step 3: Layer the Fillings
Spread the pizza sauce evenly across the dough, leaving a small border along the edges so your rolls seal up nicely. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella, then scatter the mini pepperoni on top. Finally, add a pinch of Italian seasoning for that classic herby kick. The aroma at this stage is pure magic.
Step 4: Roll, Slice, and Arrange
Starting from the long edge, roll up the dough tightly like a jelly roll, tucking in the goodness as you go. Slice your log into 1-inch pieces using a sharp knife or a serrated bread knife for the neatest results. Arrange each piece cut-side down on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little room between each so they bake up golden and crisp.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Brush the tops of the Pizza Rolls with olive oil to help them brown beautifully. Sprinkle on the garlic powder and grated Parmesan for flavor and crunch. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the rolls are bubbling and golden at the edges.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the Pizza Rolls cool for 2–3 minutes straight out of the oven—just enough so you won’t burn your fingertips but still catch them at peak gooeyness! Offer a side of warm pizza sauce or ranch for dipping, and watch them disappear in minutes.
How to Serve Pizza Rolls
Garnishes
When your Pizza Rolls come out of the oven, shower them with a little extra grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who like things spicy. These simple touches make them look even more irresistible and add a burst of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair Pizza Rolls with crunchy, fresh veggies or a zesty salad for balance. Think cucumber sticks, cherry tomatoes, or crisp romaine tossed with Italian dressing—simple, light sides that complement the richness of the rolls perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Pizza Rolls on a big platter with little bowls of dipping sauces in the center—classic pizza sauce, ranch, or even a creamy garlic dip. For parties, thread a few onto skewers for easy grab-and-go bites or stack them to make a playful “pizza roll tower.” However you serve them, they’re always a conversation starter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Pizza Rolls (lucky you!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. A quick zap in the oven or air fryer will bring back that fresh-baked magic.
Freezing
These are freezer-friendly! Arrange baked (and cooled) rolls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for 1–2 months, ready for a speedy snack or last-minute guests.
Reheating
To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 7–9 minutes or until warmed through. The air fryer is also a star here—just 3–5 minutes on medium and your Pizza Rolls will be crisp and melty as ever. Microwaving works in a pinch but can soften the crust.
FAQs
Can I use different fillings in Pizza Rolls?
Absolutely! Swap in cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, chopped veggies, or black olives to make your own signature rolls. Just make sure any add-ins aren’t too wet so the rolls stay crisp.
Do I have to use store-bought dough?
Nope—homemade dough works beautifully and adds amazing flavor. If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough keeps things speedy and still bakes up deliciously airy.
How do I keep Pizza Rolls from unrolling in the oven?
Rolling the dough tightly and slicing with a sharp knife helps. Placing the cut side down on the baking sheet and giving each roll enough space will let them hold their shape while baking.
What dipping sauces go best with Pizza Rolls?
Classic pizza sauce and ranch are always safe bets, but feel free to try garlic butter, creamy pesto, or a spicy marinara for variety. Offering a sampler platter is always a hit with guests!
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes! Assemble and slice your Pizza Rolls a few hours before your event, then cover and refrigerate. Bake them off just before serving—they’ll come out warm and bubbly, ready to wow your guests.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about hot, homemade Pizza Rolls—the kind of snack you crave on movie nights, game days, or anytime you want to bring big smiles to the table. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of pure, cheesy happiness!
