Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups are the ultimate comfort snack that doubles as a fun family meal. They’re gooey, cheesy, and packed with savory pepperoni, all wrapped in soft, golden dough. The best part? These roll-ups are surprisingly quick to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, after-school snacks, or even a casual game-night treat. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or adults craving that classic pizza flavor, this recipe delivers melty cheese, flavorful pepperoni, and a little homemade magic in every bite. Let’s roll up some cheesy goodness and turn a simple pizza night into something unforgettable.
Why These Roll-Ups Are So Popular
Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups combine the flavors of traditional pizza with the convenience of bite-sized rolls. They’re easier to handle than a full pizza and are perfect for dipping in marinara or enjoying on the go. The mix of melted mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and lightly seasoned dough creates a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s loved by kids and adults alike.
Key Ingredients That Make the Difference
The magic of these roll-ups comes from using quality, simple ingredients. Soft pizza dough, high-moisture mozzarella cheese, and flavorful pepperoni form the core. Adding a little Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or parmesan cheese elevates the flavor. You can also use turkey or chicken pepperoni as a lighter alternative, keeping the dish kid-friendly and full of familiar flavors.
Ingredients for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups
Simple and Delicious Ingredients
These roll-ups are made with easy-to-find ingredients that create maximum flavor and gooey, cheesy satisfaction.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pizza dough | 1 lb (store-bought or homemade) | Soft and easy to roll out |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 2 cups | High-moisture cheese melts best |
| Pepperoni slices | 20–25 slices | Turkey or chicken pepperoni can be used |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/4 cup | Optional, for added flavor |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Enhances the classic pizza flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp | Optional, adds depth |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For brushing the roll-ups |
| Marinara sauce | 1 cup | For dipping |
This ingredient list is designed to make the roll-ups flavorful, cheesy, and easy to assemble. You can adjust cheese or pepperoni quantities based on your preferences.
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups
Step 1: Prepare the Dough and Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches. This makes it easier to roll up later. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, leaving about a half-inch border along the edges. Lay the pepperoni slices evenly on top of the cheese, then sprinkle with Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. The combination of melty cheese, flavorful pepperoni, and aromatic seasoning ensures each bite is packed with classic pizza flavor.
Step 2: Roll and Slice the Dough
Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log, making sure the filling stays inside. Pinch the edges to seal and prevent the cheese from oozing during baking. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1–1.5 inch thick roll-ups. Arrange the roll-ups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart so they bake evenly. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil to give them a golden, crispy finish. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy these gooey, cheesy, crowd-pleasing treats.
Tips and Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups
Tips for Perfect Roll-Ups
To make the perfect Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups, start with room-temperature dough—it’s easier to roll and less likely to tear. Don’t overfill the dough with cheese or pepperoni, as this can make it hard to seal and cause the cheese to spill out while baking. Brushing the tops with olive oil before baking helps achieve a golden, crispy crust. For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning or grated Parmesan over the roll-ups just before placing them in the oven. You can also lightly sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
Serving Suggestions
These pizza roll-ups are perfect as a quick snack, appetizer, or kid-friendly dinner. Serve them with warm marinara sauce for dipping, or pair with a simple side salad for a balanced meal. They’re also great for lunchboxes or game-night treats since they can be eaten warm or at room temperature. For a fun twist, try adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling. Whether for a casual family night or entertaining friends, these cheesy, gooey roll-ups are always a hit and make every bite feel like a slice of pizza magic.
Variations and Customizations for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups
Switch Up the Meats and Cheeses
While classic pepperoni and mozzarella are always a hit, you can get creative with your roll-ups. Try turkey or chicken pepperoni for a lighter option, or mix in cooked sausage or beef bacon for a hearty twist. For the cheese, combine mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for a richer, more flavorful melt. A sprinkle of Parmesan or Asiago on top before baking adds a nutty, golden finish.
Add Veggies or Herbs
Vegetables like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can easily be added to the filling, giving extra flavor, texture, and nutrition. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano added to the cheese layer can elevate the taste and make it taste closer to a gourmet pizza. You can also experiment with crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or drizzle with garlic-infused olive oil before baking for an aromatic boost.
Gluten-Free or Alternative Dough
For those with dietary preferences, these roll-ups can be made with gluten-free pizza dough or even pre-made flatbreads. Adjust baking time as needed, but all the cheesy, savory goodness stays intact. These variations keep the recipe fun and adaptable for any occasion or dietary need.
Print
Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 6–8 1x
Description
Easy, cheesy, and delicious, these pepperoni pizza roll-ups are perfect for snacks, appetizers, or quick dinners. Soft dough, melty mozzarella, and savory pepperoni make every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20–25 pepperoni slices (turkey or chicken optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle.
- Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Layer pepperoni and Parmesan, then season with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
- Roll the dough tightly lengthwise and pinch edges to seal. Slice into 1–1.5-inch roll-ups.
- Place roll-ups on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil. Bake 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips:
- Use room-temperature dough for easier rolling.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent cheese from spilling.
- Customize with veggies or different cheeses for extra flavor.
- Freeze unbaked roll-ups for easy future meals.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
Storage and Reheating Tips for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups
How to Store Pizza Roll-Ups
Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups are perfect for making ahead or saving leftovers. Allow the roll-ups to cool completely after baking, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to make a larger batch, you can also freeze the unbaked roll-ups. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1–2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps them from sticking together and allows you to bake just the portion you need later.
Reheating for Maximum Freshness
To reheat refrigerated roll-ups, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dough is heated through. For frozen roll-ups, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option, but the crust may lose some crispiness. A light brush of olive oil before reheating can help restore the golden, slightly crispy texture. These tips ensure that every bite stays gooey, cheesy, and satisfying, even the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups
Can I Make These Roll-Ups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This makes them perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups?
Absolutely. Freeze the unbaked roll-ups on a parchment-lined tray for 1–2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time to ensure they’re fully heated.
What Cheese Works Best?
Mozzarella is the classic choice for gooey meltiness, but you can mix in provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for extra flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan or Asiago on top adds a nutty, golden finish.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Yes! Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or olives can easily be added to the filling. Just make sure vegetables are thinly sliced to prevent excess moisture from making the dough soggy.
Are These Kid-Friendly?
Definitely. Kids love the cheesy, savory filling, and you can adjust spice or ingredients to suit picky eaters. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping to make them even more fun.
Conclusion
Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups are a fun, quick, and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of pizza into convenient, bite-sized rolls. With gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and lightly seasoned dough, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, snacks, or party appetizers. Easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike, these roll-ups are a versatile addition to any kitchen. Serve them warm with marinara dipping sauce and enjoy the cheesy, melty magic in every bite.