Pizza rolls Recipe

If you have a love for all things cheesy, saucy, and delightfully hand-held, then these pizza rolls are about to become your new favorite snack or appetizer. These little bundles of joy bring the classic flavors of pizza into a convenient, bite-sized form that’s perfect for sharing with friends or sneaking in a few while watching your favorite show. The crispy outer dough gives way to a warm, gooey center that’s packed with rich mozzarella, tangy pizza sauce, and your choice of savory toppings. Whether you’re craving a quick treat or planning a fun party platter, pizza rolls deliver comfort food vibes with every single bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial for capturing the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your pizza rolls. From the supple homemade dough to the vibrant layering of cheese and toppings, each ingredient plays its part.

• All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the base for a soft, chewy dough that crisps up beautifully when baked.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor of the dough without overpowering.
• Sugar (1 tsp): Feeds the yeast and helps activate that perfect rise.
• Active dry yeast (1 packet/7g): Gives the dough its airy texture by creating bubbles as it rises.
• Warm water (3/4 cup): An ideal temperature helps wake up the yeast for a good rise.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds moisture and richness to the dough, making it tender and flavorful.
• Pizza sauce (1 cup): Brings that signature tangy, herby tomato flavor packed into every roll.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts perfectly to create irresistible gooey pockets inside.
• Chopped pepperoni (1/2 cup, optional): For a classic, savory punch to your pizza rolls.
• Sautéed vegetables (optional): Bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms add texture and freshness.
• Egg (1, for egg wash) or melted butter (2 tbsp): Brushing the tops helps achieve a golden, shiny finish.

How to Make Pizza rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes foamy—that’s how you know your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. Then, in a larger bowl, combine the flour, salt, and olive oil together before adding the yeast mixture. Knead this dough until it feels smooth and elastic, a process that gets your hands into the fun zone of baking. Cover your dough and let it rise for about an hour, giving it plenty of time to fluff up to just the right texture.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release any trapped air. Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough out to about 1/8-inch thickness. This thinness is key because it allows the dough to crisp up nicely while still enveloping your tasty fillings perfectly.

Step 3: Cut and Fill

Cut your rolled dough into neat 3-inch squares—the ideal size for these irresistible bites. Then, spoon a bit of pizza sauce onto each square, sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella, and add your pepperoni or sautéed vegetables if you’re going for that extra flavor dimension. Be generous but careful not to overfill so that sealing remains easy.

Step 4: Roll and Seal

Carefully fold each square into a roll, making sure to pinch the edges firmly to seal in all those delicious ingredients. This seal is what keeps the cheese from leaking out during baking and ensures your pizza rolls maintain their shape.

Step 5: Bake or Air Fry

Place your pizza rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Brush the tops lightly with egg wash or melted butter to get that golden-brown finish and beautiful shine. Bake them in the oven at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or if you’re using an air fryer, cook at the same temperature for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they have that perfectly browned crust and a little puffiness.

How to Serve Pizza rolls

Garnishes

Pizza rolls make a visually appealing dish on their own, but adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or oregano right after baking elevates their aroma and flavor. A dusting of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of garlic butter can also add a gourmet touch that makes every bite sing with extra deliciousness.

Side Dishes

Pair these pizza rolls with simple side dishes to round out your meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while a bowl of marinara or ranch dip offers the perfect tangy complement. You could even serve alongside roasted vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad for added balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or family gatherings, arrange your pizza rolls in a circular pattern on a large platter with small bowls of various dips in the center. You can also stack them in little towers or skewer a few with toothpicks to make fun pizza roll “kebabs.” These ideas make the dish interactive and visually striking, encouraging everyone to dive right in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover pizza rolls after your feast, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to three days and remain tasty, although reheating is recommended to bring back their crispy exterior.

Freezing

Pizza rolls freeze beautifully! Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy homemade pizza rolls spontaneously whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat your pizza rolls in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the dough a bit soggy.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made pizza dough for these pizza rolls?

Absolutely! Using store-bought pizza dough saves time and still yields delicious results. Just roll it out and follow the rest of the filling and baking steps as usual.

What is the best cheese for pizza rolls?

Mozzarella is the classic choice for its superb melting qualities and mild flavor, but feel free to mix in some cheddar or provolone for extra depth.

Can I make these pizza rolls vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the pepperoni and load up on your favorite sautéed or raw veggies. You could try spinach, olives, or even artichokes for a tasty vegetarian twist.

How do I keep the pizza rolls from bursting open while baking?

Make sure to pinch the edges tightly and avoid overfilling each roll. Using a little water or egg wash where you seal can help glue the dough shut during baking.

Are pizza rolls good for kids?

They are a huge hit with kids! The size, cheesy center, and fun finger-food nature make pizza rolls perfect for lunchboxes, snacks, or party treats for little ones.

Final Thoughts

Pizza rolls are the kind of comforting, crowd-pleasing treat that you’ll want to make again and again. They bring together the essence of classic pizza in a playful, portable form that anyone can enjoy. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and personalize it with your favorite toppings or sauces—you might find your new go-to snack or appetizer in these delicious little rolls!

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