Homemade Pizza Rolls Recipe

There’s nothing quite like biting into warm, melty, and perfectly golden Homemade Pizza Rolls that burst with the classic flavors of pizza in every bite. Whether you’re craving a fun snack, a party appetizer, or a cozy comfort food treat, these rolls bring all the magic of pizza wrapped up in a portable, crispy package. They’re easy to make at home with simple ingredients and a little bit of love, promising an irresistible combination of chewy dough, gooey melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and that zesty tomato sauce flavor you know and adore. Trust me, once you try these Homemade Pizza Rolls, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect balance of flavor and texture in Homemade Pizza Rolls. Each item plays a vital role, from the elastic dough that holds everything together to the spices that give these rolls their signature pizzazz.

• All-purpose flour: Use 2 cups to create a dough that’s tender on the inside but still chewy with a lovely crust on the outside.
• Active dry yeast: 1 teaspoon to help the dough rise and become wonderfully airy and soft.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance the flavor of the dough without overwhelming it.
• Warm water (about 110°F): 3/4 cup to activate the yeast and help bring the dough together smoothly.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup for that classic melty, stretchy cheese experience.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup to add a sharp, savory note that complements the mozzarella beautifully.
• Sliced pepperoni: 1/2 cup for a burst of rich, meaty flavor that’s synonymous with pizza.
• Marinara sauce: 1/2 cup to dip the rolls in or drizzle over, adding moisture and that signature tomato tang.
• Italian seasoning mix: 1 teaspoon for a warm, herby flair that brings all the flavors together.
• Freshly cracked black pepper: To taste, adding a subtle kick that rounds out the filling.

How to Make Homemade Pizza Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating your yeast in the warm water, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, then gradually add the yeast mixture. Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer until it’s smooth, elastic, and just a little tacky, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This resting time is crucial because it develops the texture that makes Homemade Pizza Rolls so irresistible.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While your dough is rising, mix together the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sliced pepperoni, Italian seasoning, and a bit of freshly cracked black pepper in a bowl. The combination of cheeses with pepperoni and spices ensures every roll will be a flavor-packed bite. This step is where you can customize your rolls by adding any extras like diced bell peppers or olives if you wish.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough and Assemble

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread a thin, even layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then sprinkle the cheese and pepperoni mixture evenly over the sauce. This layering ensures every roll has just the right balance of dough, sauce, and filling.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into individual rolls, each about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. The way you slice them affects the final shape and appearance, so be precise for uniformly sized rolls that bake evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the rolls cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each to allow for expansion. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. The smell that fills your kitchen while baking Homemade Pizza Rolls is pure comfort in action — almost impossible to resist!

How to Serve Homemade Pizza Rolls

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes right after baking to enhance the visual appeal and introduce an extra layer of flavor complexity. A light dusting of grated Parmesan over the top just before serving also adds a lovely final touch.

Side Dishes

Homemade Pizza Rolls are wonderfully versatile but pair especially well with simple sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, which complement their richness and balance the meal. For dipping, a bowl of warm marinara or a creamy ranch sauce makes every bite even more delightful.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these pizza rolls as a party platter, arranging them in a circular pattern with different dipping sauces in the center to encourage sharing and dipping fun. You could also cube them and toss with fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a unique pizza roll salad experience that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their crisp exterior, reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave whenever possible.

Freezing

Homemade Pizza Rolls freeze beautifully. Arrange the unbaked rolls on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can pop them straight into the oven whenever a pizza craving strikes without any prep.

Reheating

To reheat, place rolls on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid the microwave as it tends to make the dough soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using store-bought pizza dough can save you time and still yield delicious Homemade Pizza Rolls, though making your own dough gives you that extra homemade touch and control over texture.

What can I add besides pepperoni?

You can customize your rolls with anything you love, such as diced bell peppers, olives, cooked sausage, mushrooms, or even spinach. The possibilities are endless!

How do I prevent the rolls from being soggy?

Make sure not to overload with sauce, and bake them until they’re golden brown so the outer dough crisps up nicely while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, by swapping out the cheese for your favorite vegan cheese alternatives and using vegan dough, you can enjoy completely plant-based Homemade Pizza Rolls that are just as delicious.

How long can I freeze these rolls?

For the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to freeze and use them within 1 to 2 months. Beyond that, the quality might start to decline.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pizza Rolls bring the joy of pizza into a delightful, handheld form that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and endlessly customizable to fit your flavor favorites. Don’t wait to try making these at home — your future self will thank you for having such a delicious snack or meal so close at hand!

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