If you’ve ever wished you could recreate those irresistible pizza rolls from the freezer aisle at home, you’re in for a treat. Homemade Pizza Rolls are delightfully chewy, stuffed with gooey cheese and pepperoni, and so simple to customize. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a quick lunch, or a snack the whole family will cheer for, these pizza rolls never disappoint. Best of all? You’re entirely in control of the ingredients, making them fresher, tastier, and more satisfying than anything you can buy ready-made!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Homemade Pizza Rolls come together with just a handful of everyday ingredients, each one bringing essential flavor and texture to every bite. Don’t skip any—each plays an important role in creating that classic pizzeria taste!
- Pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade, this gives the rolls their signature chewy bite and golden crust.
- Pizza sauce: Adds a tangy tomato kick and keeps the filling juicy; don’t forget to spread it thinly for easy rolling!
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to stringy perfection, binding the filling together in every roll.
- Mini pepperoni slices or chopped pepperoni: Lends classic spicy flavor; mini slices work perfectly for bite-sized rolls!
- Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of dried herbs boosts the aroma and authentically Italian taste.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish right on top for extra umami punch.
- Olive oil: Brushed on top, it helps achieve a golden, shiny crust and keeps the rolls from drying out.
- Marinara sauce (optional): For dipping—this takes your Homemade Pizza Rolls from snack to full-on party treat!
How to Make Homemade Pizza Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Preheat the Oven
Begin by getting your oven nice and hot at 400°F (200°C), which ensures your pizza rolls bake up bubbly and golden. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pizza Dough
Lightly flour your work surface, then roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle roughly 10×14 inches. This size is just right for creating enough swirls without your rolls being too thick or thin. Take your time here, aiming for an even thickness from edge to edge.
Step 3: Add the Fillings
Spoon the pizza sauce over the dough, spreading it evenly and leaving about a half-inch border to make sealing easier. Scatter the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the sauce. Each ingredient should get its moment in the spotlight, so try not to overload certain areas.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Starting from the long side, roll the dough up tightly into a long log, like a jelly roll. This keeps all the fillings hugged inside for perfect spirals. Pinch the seam gently to seal, then carefully place the log seam-side down. With a sharp knife, slice into 1-inch pieces—about 12 rolls, depending on your dough size.
Step 5: Arrange and Top
Place your slices on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space to spread out as they bake. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil for gorgeous browning, then shower with grated Parmesan to create a savory, crispy finish.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Pop the sheet into the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until the Homemade Pizza Rolls are puffed, golden, and the cheese is bubbling. Let them cool just enough to handle, then serve warm—don’t forget that optional side of marinara sauce for dipping!
How to Serve Homemade Pizza Rolls
Garnishes
Finish your Homemade Pizza Rolls with an extra sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and a fragrant touch. A pinch of red pepper flakes is the ultimate move for spicy snack lovers.
Side Dishes
Balance out these cheesy, savory bites with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette, or serve alongside a bowl of roasted vegetables for a more robust appetizer spread. Kids (and, let’s be honest, adults) love them with carrot and celery sticks, too.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your pizza rolls into a party centerpiece by arranging them in a circle, “pull-apart bread” style—sprinkle fresh herbs in the middle for a little flair, or serve in a cast iron skillet for a rustic touch. Bold hosts can set up a “dipping bar” with marinara, ranch, and garlic butter to really wow a crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Homemade Pizza Rolls store beautifully! Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate—they’ll stay fresh for up to three days without losing their signature softness.
Freezing
These rolls are a freezer superstar. After baking and cooling, freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They keep for up to two months—simply thaw and reheat for near-instant pizza bites.
Reheating
To bring your Homemade Pizza Rolls back to life, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes or zap them in the microwave for 20–30 seconds per roll. The oven method will restore that original crunch, while the microwave is perfect when you’re short on time.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for Homemade Pizza Rolls?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough makes this recipe extra convenient, but if you have a favorite homemade dough, it’ll work perfectly too.
Which other fillings work well in pizza rolls?
You can get creative! Try cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms and onions, spinach, black olives, or swap in your favorite cheeses—just avoid anything too watery, so the rolls stay crisp.
How do I keep my rolls from unraveling as they bake?
Be sure to pinch the dough log firmly to seal before slicing, and always place the rolls seam-side down on your baking sheet. The olive oil brushed on top also helps the dough set.
Are Homemade Pizza Rolls good for making in advance?
They’re fantastic for prepping ahead! Assemble and refrigerate the unbaked rolls up to a day in advance, then bake just before serving for ultimate freshness.
Can I make these pizza rolls vegetarian?
Absolutely—leave out the pepperoni and use just cheese and veggies, or load them up with spinach, roasted peppers, or chopped artichokes. They’ll be just as delicious and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making Homemade Pizza Rolls, now is the perfect time to give it a whirl. They’re endlessly customizable, fun to make, and totally addictive once you try that first warm, cheesy bite. Share them with your favorite people—or just treat yourself to a batch fresh from the oven!
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Homemade Pizza Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Homemade Pizza Rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer. Filled with gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and flavorful Italian seasoning, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or a fun twist on pizza night.
Ingredients
Pizza Rolls:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices or chopped pepperoni
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Add Toppings: Spread pizza sauce on the dough, sprinkle with mozzarella, pepperoni, and Italian seasoning.
- Roll the Dough: Roll the dough tightly into a log, seal the seam, slice into rolls.
- Bake: Place the rolls on the baking sheet, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with warm marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
Notes
- You can customize the filling with cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, or different cheeses.
- Great for parties, lunches, or freezer snacks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
