
Cheesy pizza roll-ups bring together everything you love about pizza in a crispy handheld snack that is always a hit at parties or family nights. Flaky golden dough hugs gooey cheese and zesty pepperoni for a pull-apart treat you can serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. With quick prep and simple ingredients you can make them ahead or customize to everyone’s tastes. Around our house these are a movie night and after-school staple and I love how quickly they vanish from the baking pan when friends come over.
I started making these as a way to use up extra pizza toppings and now they have become the most requested snack at every sleepover and game day we host.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated pizza dough: is the shortcut that brings that classic crust flavor Search packages for dough that feels soft and springs back for best rising
- Marinara or pizza sauce: layers in tang and keeps the filling moist Choose fresh or jarred sauces with bright tomato flavor
- Shredded mozzarella: melts to those gooey strings Everyone loves Pull your own from a block if possible for superior melt
- Shredded cheddar: deepens the flavor and brings a golden color Choose sharp cheddar for added punch
- Grated Parmesan: packs a savory nuttiness Fresh grated gives a much richer result than canned
- Sliced pepperoni: brings a spicy bite Look for thin pepperoni so the roll stays tight
- Olive oil: creates a crispy shiny crust Go for extra virgin if possible for best taste
- Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: add aroma Seek blends with oregano and basil and take a whiff at the store for the freshest mix
- Red pepper flakes: add heat Shake lightly for a gentle kick or heavy if you like it spicy
- Salt: helps balance all the flavors Taste your cheeses beforehand to guide how much you sprinkle
- Melted butter: adds a rich finish Use unsalted to control overall saltiness
- Fresh parsley for topping: delivers color and freshness Chop it just before using for best look
- Extra Parmesan: is the secret high note right before serving Shower generously for maximum flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Pat out the pizza dough on parchment to a nine by thirteen inch rectangle Make sure it is flat and even so the finished rolls bake up soft inside and crisp on the edges
- Spread the Sauce:
- Spoon your pizza or marinara sauce evenly over the dough Leave half an inch around the border to keep the sauce from leaking as you roll
- Add Cheese and Toppings:
- Scatter mozzarella and cheddar evenly then cover with pepperoni slices Make sure every section is filled so each roll gets cheesy pepperoni goodness
- Season:
- Lightly dust with garlic powder Italian seasoning a pinch of salt and some red pepper flakes if you want heat Doing this now means every bite is infused with flavor
- Roll it Up:
- Using your fingers roll the dough up tightly from one long edge making sure to keep it even Press the final seam to seal so nothing escapes when baking
- Slice:
- With a sharp knife slice the log into ten or twelve equal pieces Wipe the blade clean if cheese sticks so cuts stay neat
- Arrange and Prep for Baking:
- Set each roll up cut side up on your lined baking sheet leaving space to grow Brush tops with olive oil or butter so they turn golden and shiny
- Bake:
- Slide the sheet into a hot oven and bake for fifteen to eighteen minutes until rolls look golden and cheese is bubbling Watch close for the perfect finish
- Finish with Garlic Butter:
- Mix melted butter chopped parsley garlic powder and Parmesan together Brush this over rolls immediately out of the oven for that signature sheen and burst of flavor
- Serve:
- Let them cool two minutes then serve warm with plenty of your favorite dipping sauces The cheese will be perfectly stretchy and the edges satisfyingly crisp

One thing my family never skips is brushing the rolls with that fresh garlic butter sauce The scent draws everyone to the kitchen and my kids always try to sneak the extra cheesy ones off the tray before I can plate them up for company
Storage Tips
Let the roll-ups cool completely before storing Place in a reusable container and refrigerate for up to three days For best results reheat in a toaster oven or skillet which keeps them crisp without drying out the filling
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage mushrooms spinach or even olives to create a roll-up platter for everyone Dairy-free cheeses work for allergy needs and if you like a heartier dough try whole wheat or gluten-free
Serving Suggestions
These shine straight from the oven with classic marinara on the side but ranch dressing and garlic dips work just as well For casual parties serve on a large platter with icons of sauce or for a fun twist make them mini for bite-size appetizers

A Slice of Pizza History
Pizza roll-ups are inspired by both stromboli and classic pizza traditions in Italy and America The roll-up format lets you enjoy all your favorite toppings in a personal sliceable package They are a fun new way to mix up pizza night and get the kids helping in the kitchen
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different cheese types?
Yes! Blend mozzarella, cheddar, or even provolone for a melty, flavorful result. Try smoked varieties for extra depth.
- → How do I keep roll-ups from unrolling while baking?
Seal the edge of the dough tightly and place them seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent unraveling.
- → What are some tasty filling variations?
Try adding cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or spinach for different flavor profiles.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble roll-ups and refrigerate up to 12 hours before baking, then cook when ready to serve.
- → What dipping sauces go well with roll-ups?
Marinara, ranch, garlic butter, and creamy Italian dressings are all delicious choices for dipping.