Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups

There’s something unbelievably comforting about cheesy pepperoni roll-ups. They embody everything we love about the classic flavors of pizza but in an easy-to-make, fun finger food. Whether you’re prepping for a game day gathering, a family movie night, or just because you deserve a treat, these cheesy pepperoni roll-ups are sure to delight everyone.

So, what makes these cheesy pepperoni roll-ups stand out? First, they’re incredibly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Plus, they’re perfect for dipping into marinara or ranch sauce, turning every bite into an adventure for your taste buds. Trust me; once you try these, you’ll find yourself craving them more often than you’d like to admit.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough – 1 pound (store-bought or homemade)
• Pepperoni slices – 1 cup
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups
• Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (for brushing)
• Marinara sauce – for dipping (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your roll-ups will bake perfectly golden and crisp.

Step 2:

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface until it forms a large rectangle. Use a rolling pin to ensure even thickness; it should be about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 3:

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges.

Step 4:

Lay the pepperoni slices over the cheese. Feel free to add more than the recipe calls for if you’re a pepperoni lover.

Step 5:

Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the pepperoni for an extra flavor boost.

Step 6:

Starting from one side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal it watertight.

Step 7:

Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch pieces. You should have about 12 roll-ups. Place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 8:

Brush the tops with olive oil to ensure they get that beautifully golden crust as they bake.

Step 9:

Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Your kitchen will smell amazing, just wait for it.

Step 10:

Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving with marinara sauce. Enjoy your cheesy pepperoni roll-ups.

Nutritional Information

These cheesy pepperoni roll-ups are delightful indulgences. Each serving contains about 250 calories, with 12 grams of protein and relatively low carbohydrates thanks to the pizza dough and toppings. Pairing them with a fresh salad could make for a balanced meal.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, consider using whole wheat or cauliflower pizza dough for a healthier alternative. You can also switch out traditional mozzarella for part-skim mozzarella to reduce calorie intake. Try incorporating some spinach or bell peppers into the mix to add a veggie punch.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesy pepperoni roll-ups are versatile and pair wonderfully with many things. Serve them alongside a simple green salad or even their own mini pizzas for a create-your-own pizza night. Don’t forget about dipping sauces, marinara, ranch, or garlic butter are all fantastic options.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is rolling the dough too thin, which can lead to a tough texture. Additionally, be careful not to overstuff your roll-ups. Less is more here; overfilling can cause them to burst during baking.

Chef’s Notes

• For a twist, try adding cooked sausage or diced vegetables into your cheesy pepperoni roll-ups.
• If you have leftover cheese or meats, feel free to incorporate them as they’ll add delicious flavors.
• Make sure to watch them closely towards the end, as ovens vary and you want them to achieve that perfect golden brown without overcooking.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
  A1: Absolutely; You can prepare them ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze before baking. Just adjust the baking time as needed.
• Q2: What dipping sauces go well with cheesy pepperoni roll-ups?
  A2: Marinara is a classic choice, but ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even pesto could pair wonderfully as well.
• Q3: Can I use other meats aside from pepperoni?
  A3: Definitely; Feel free to mix and match with salami, ham, or even turkey pepperoni for a different flavor experience.

These cheesy pepperoni roll-ups are sure to become a go-to favorite in your household. They’re easy to whip up, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress. For more delicious ideas, check out my recipe for Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls and also my comfort food classic, Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole! Enjoy and happy cooking!

Print