
Pizza rolls stuffed with pepperoni and cheese are the ultimate comfort food for any night when you crave both something fun and satisfying. Fresh dough bakes up pillowy and golden with the perfect melty middle and a hit of marinara in every bite. Each batch disappears at my house before they even hit the table because nobody can resist that crispy cheesy edge
I first made these for a movie night snack and ended up making a second batch because my friends could not stop eating them
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: Choose a good-quality refrigerated or fresh dough for the best texture make sure it is at room temperature so it is easy to roll out
- Marinara sauce: Adds tang and moisture look for one with simple ingredients and robust tomato flavor
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly and gives that classic pizza stretch always buy blocks and shred yourself for best melt
- Sliced pepperoni: Brings that signature spicy flavor try to find thick-cut pepperoni for extra punch
- Garlic powder: Adds richness and aromatic flavor opt for fresh garlic powder for strongest taste
- Dried oregano: Traditional Italian herb that deepens the pizza aroma make sure it is still green and fragrant
- Olive oil: Gives a crispy golden finish and helps toppings brown choose extra virgin for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it has plenty of time to get nice and hot while you assemble everything
- Roll the Dough:
- Dust your surface lightly with flour and gently press the dough out into a rectangle about ten by fourteen inches go slowly to avoid tearing
- Add the Sauce:
- Using a spoon, spread marinara evenly over the dough but keep a small border empty along the edges so it seals well when rolled
- Add Cheese and Pepperoni:
- Scatter shredded mozzarella so every bite is cheesy then lay pepperoni slices evenly on top of the cheese for big flavor in every swirl
- Season the Layers:
- Sprinkle over the garlic powder and oregano for that unmistakable pizzeria flavor do not be shy you want every roll to be flavorful
- Form the Roll:
- Starting with a shorter edge carefully and tightly roll up the dough so you get a log that holds all that goodness inside
- Slice the Rolls:
- With a sharp knife cut the log into one inch wide pieces each slice should look like a little pizza spiral
- Arrange for Baking:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment or rub it with oil place your pizza rolls cut side down and give them room to puff up
- Top and Bake:
- Drizzle olive oil over each roll for extra crispness then slide the tray into the oven and bake fifteen to twenty minutes until golden and bubbling
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the hot rolls rest about five minutes before serving so the cheese settles and you do not burn your mouth enjoy them warm

Mozzarella has always been my favorite part since it melts into gooey perfection My little niece helped me sprinkle on the extra cheese last time and it is now her special job every pizza night
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness never the microwave if you can help it since that makes them soggy For longer storage freeze the unbaked sliced rolls then bake directly from frozen just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap pepperoni for diced cooked sausage Canadian bacon or veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms if you want a vegetarian version You can use low fat mozzarella for a lighter option and add a sprinkle of Parmesan for bolder flavor If you prefer homemade dough you can absolutely make your own just let it rise fully before rolling out

Serving Suggestions
Serve with extra marinara or ranch for dipping Pair with a crisp salad to make a full meal These also make a welcome party appetizer or game-day snack My family loves them for a picnic lunch as they travel well and taste great at room temperature
Cultural Note
Pizza rolls take inspiration from both Italian stromboli and American snack food culture They became popular at parties and sports gatherings for their sharable nature The blend of tomato cheese and cured meats has always brought people together around my table and making them from scratch is a fun tradition we love passing down
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use store-bought dough for these rolls?
Yes, pre-made pizza dough works perfectly. Let it come to room temperature before rolling for best results.
- → What dipping sauces work well with these rolls?
Marinara, ranch, or garlic butter are great options to complement the flavors of the pizza rolls.
- → Can I make these ahead and reheat them later?
Absolutely. Bake the rolls, cool them, and store airtight. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to maintain texture.
- → Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?
Yes, simply swap out the pepperoni for your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- → How do I prevent the rolls from unrolling while baking?
Rolling tightly and placing seam side down on the baking sheet helps keep the rolls intact during baking.