Cheesy Pepperoni Roll-Ups Snack

This cheesy pepperoni pizza roll-up recipe transforms classic pizza flavors into adorable, bite-sized treats perfect for parties, game day snacks, or even quick weeknight dinners. The combination of gooey mozzarella and savory pepperoni wrapped in golden dough creates irresistible finger food that disappears in minutes.

I first made these roll ups for my nephew's birthday party when I needed something quick that would appeal to both kids and adults. They were such a hit that they've become my go-to contribution for potlucks and family gatherings ever since.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough: Serves as the perfect base bringing that authentic pizza flavor without the work of making dough from scratch
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that classic stretchy cheesy pull, use whole milk mozzarella for the richest flavor
• Sliced pepperoni: Adds the perfect savory spiced flavor, look for thinner slices that will roll up more easily
• Pizza sauce for dipping: Choose a high-quality sauce or make your own for the best flavor
• Optional Italian seasoning or garlic powder: Enhances the flavor profile and adds depth to each bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 190°C or follow the temperature instructions on your dough packaging. A properly preheated oven ensures your roll ups will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden exterior while keeping the inside gooey.

Prepare the Dough:

If using pizza dough, work on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking and roll it into a rectangular shape about 1/4 inch thick. For crescent roll dough, simply unroll the package and separate into the pre-cut triangles on a clean surface.

Add the Fillings:

Distribute the shredded mozzarella evenly across the surface of your dough, leaving about half an inch border around all edges. This border helps seal in the cheese as it melts. Layer the pepperoni slices over the cheese, making sure they slightly overlap for maximum flavor in every bite. For extra flavor, sprinkle with Italian seasoning or garlic powder which will blend with the cheese as it melts.

Roll the Dough:

For pizza dough, start at one long edge and roll the dough tightly into a log shape, pressing gently as you go to ensure the fillings stay in place. For crescent dough, roll each triangle from the wide end to the pointed end, ensuring the edges are sealed by pinching them together.

Slice and Arrange:

For the pizza dough log, use a sharp knife to cut into pieces approximately 2.5 cm thick. Place these rolls cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing some space between each one for expansion. For crescent rolls, simply place each rolled triangle on the prepared baking sheet with the point side down.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Look for a golden-brown color on top and a firm texture that still yields slightly when touched. The cheese should be fully melted and might be bubbling from some of the edges.

Serve Warm:

Allow the roll ups to cool for just 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the cheese set slightly so it doesn't burn mouths but keeps everything warm and gooey. Serve alongside warmed pizza sauce in small dipping bowls.

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The real secret to these roll ups is in how you roll the dough. My grandmother taught me to roll them extra tight while being gentle enough not to squeeze out the filling. She used to make a similar version with ham and Swiss cheese which inspired me to experiment with pizza flavors when I started cooking for my own family.

Make Ahead and Storage

These pizza roll ups are perfect for meal prep and planning ahead. You can assemble them completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, simply add an extra minute or two to the baking time. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it tends to make the dough soggy rather than crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

The beauty of these roll ups lies in their versatility. Don't eat pepperoni? Try cooked crumbled sausage, bacon, ham, or keep it vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. The cheese can be swapped too—cheddar, provolone, or a blend works beautifully. For a different flavor profile, try pesto instead of pizza sauce for dipping, or mix a little into the filling. Gluten-free friends can use gluten-free pizza dough though you may need to handle it more gently during rolling.

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Serving Suggestions

While these roll ups are delicious on their own, they can become part of a more substantial meal. Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette for a complete lunch. For entertaining, arrange on a platter with different dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic butter. They also pair wonderfully with antipasto skewers or a vegetable crudité platter for a casual buffet spread that covers all the bases.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?

Yes, crescent roll dough works perfectly! Simply separate it into triangles and roll them from the wide end to the narrow point.

→ What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Shredded mozzarella is ideal for its meltiness, but you can also experiment with cheddar, provolone, or a blend.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extras like olives, cooked sausage, or sautéed mushrooms for more flavor.

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

Roll the dough tightly and make sure to seal the ends. You can also use a bit of water or egg wash to help seal the edges.

→ Can I prepare these roll-ups in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups ahead of time, store them covered in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving.