Homemade Pepperoni Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Homemade Pepperoni Rolls are a quick and fun way to satisfy your cravings. Here’s why you’ll love them:

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 8 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a hot batch of pepperoni rolls ready in no time.

• Versatile: You can bake them in the oven or air fry them for a crispier, healthier option.

• Kid-Friendly: These rolls are perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a great addition to family meals or parties.

• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste. Add extra cheese, pepperoni, or even veggies if you like!

Ingredients

• 1 tube pizza dough (about 11 to 13 ounces)

• 36 pepperoni slices (four per roll)

• ¾ cup mozzarella cheese

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (or prepare your air fryer as described below).

2. Stretch the pizza dough into a large rectangle. Cut it into nine equal pieces.

3. Place a tablespoon of mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough piece. Top the cheese with four slices of pepperoni.

4. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, pinching the ends to seal them.

5. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and salt.

6. For oven baking: Transfer the rolls to a cookie sheet sprayed with cooking spray or lined with parchment paper. Ensure the rolls are not touching. Brush the tops of the rolls with the butter mixture. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

7. For air frying: Brush the butter mixture over the rolls. Arrange a few rolls in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Air fry at 350°F for 8-9 minutes, or until golden brown. Check the rolls at 6-7 minutes for doneness and adjust time if needed.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9 rolls

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 8 minutes (air fryer) or 10-12 minutes (oven)

• Total Time: 18 minutes

Variations

• Add More Toppings: Feel free to add extra ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for a more filling roll.

• Different Cheeses: You can experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or provolone, for a unique flavor.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pepperoni with other options like spinach, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian version.

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with different dips like ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or a tangy barbecue sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pepperoni rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to store them longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the rolls in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes to crisp them up again.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?

Yes, homemade pizza dough works great! Just make sure it’s rolled out to about the same thickness as store-bought dough for even cooking.

2. Can I freeze pepperoni rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the rolls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them from frozen for 12-15 minutes or air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

3. How can I make these rolls healthier?

You can use whole wheat pizza dough, reduce the amount of butter, or switch to a low-fat cheese to make these rolls a bit lighter.

4. Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more mozzarella or mix in some Parmesan or cheddar for a cheesy kick.

5. What can I dip these rolls in?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or even garlic butter make excellent dips.

6. Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?

Yes, crescent roll dough can be used for a flakier texture. Just be sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out.

7. How can I prevent the rolls from opening while baking?

Be sure to pinch the dough tightly at the ends before baking. You can also roll them a bit more securely to keep them sealed during cooking.

8. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking or air frying.

9. Can I use turkey pepperoni?

Yes, turkey pepperoni works as a great alternative for a leaner option while still keeping the flavor.

10. Can I make these rolls without cheese?

Yes, you can make a pepperoni-only version or even add other ingredients like spinach or olives if you want a non-cheese version.

Conclusion

These Homemade Pepperoni Rolls are a quick, easy, and incredibly tasty option for a snack, appetizer, or meal. Whether you bake them in the oven or use an air fryer, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. With simple ingredients and just a few steps, you can enjoy these cheesy, pepperoni-packed rolls any time the craving strikes!