Pepperoni Rolls

Pepperoni Rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack, perfect for parties or a light meal. These rolls feature layers of pepperoni and melted cheese wrapped in soft pizza dough, creating a bite-sized treat that’s hard to resist. Let’s look at the ingredients needed to create these tasty bites.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza dough: 1 can, used as the base for the rolls.
• Pepperoni: 1 package (8 oz), sliced, for a savory and spicy filling.
• Mozzarella cheese: 1 1/2 cups, shredded, adding a gooey and melty texture.
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated, for an extra layer of flavor.
• Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, to brush on top of the rolls.
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, to season the butter for added flavor.
• Dried Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon, to sprinkle on top for a herby touch.
• Marinara sauce: For dipping, providing a tangy and rich complement to the rolls.

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

Step 2:

Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface, forming a large rectangle.

Step 3:

Layer the pepperoni slices evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 4:

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the pepperoni.

Step 5:

Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the seams to seal.

Step 6:

Cut the log into 1-inch pieces and place each piece, cut-side down, onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7:

Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and dried Italian seasoning.

Step 8:

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 9:

Serve the warm rolls with marinara sauce for dipping.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Pepperoni Rolls fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture. They pair perfectly with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness. If you prefer to freeze the rolls, bake them first and let them cool completely. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months, then reheat directly in the oven when ready to enjoy.

Helpful Notes

For a spicy twist, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling before rolling the dough. You can customize the filling by adding sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions along with the pepperoni for extra flavor and texture. Try using a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Emeril Lagasse recommends brushing the rolls with a garlic butter mixture before baking for a more intense flavor. Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests using fresh dough for a fluffier texture, but store-bought works well for convenience. Chef Bobby Flay advises letting the rolls cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set and prevent burning your mouth.