If you’ve ever dreamed of combining all your favorite pizza flavors into a perfect handheld snack, then you are going to love this Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups Recipe. It’s a delightful, gooey, and crispy treat that brings together warm, melty mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and buttery crescent dough into bite-sized roll ups that are simply irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd, looking for a quick after-school snack, or just indulging in some comfort food, these roll ups make the ultimate cozy, cheesy delight with very little effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but essential to create the perfect balance of cheesy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors in every roll up. Each component plays a unique role, from the buttery dough providing a golden crust to the pepperoni delivering that classic pizza zing.
- Crescent roll dough (1 can, 8 oz): The flaky, buttery base that wraps all the delicious fillings inside.
- Pizza sauce (1/2 cup): Adds a tangy, seasoned tomato layer that brings fresh pizza vibes.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Ooey-gooey goodness that melts perfectly inside the roll ups.
- Pepperoni slices (24 slices): The star meat topping, offering spicy and savory notes with every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 tablespoon): A salty, nutty finish sprinkled on top before baking for extra flavor.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant, herbaceous kick that complements the classic pizza tastes.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon, optional): Brushed on top to create a golden, shiny crust that’s extra inviting.
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles; these will be the perfect size for your roll ups.
Step 2: Layer the Flavors
Take each triangle and spread a thin layer of pizza sauce, being careful to leave a small border around the edges—this prevents sauce from leaking when rolled. Next, sprinkle a generous handful of shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce. Then, place 3 slices of pepperoni at the wide end; this ensures you’ll get a delicious bite of pepperoni in every roll up.
Step 3: Roll and Prepare for Baking
Roll each triangle carefully from the wide end to the tip, folding the dough snugly around the filling. Arrange your roll ups on the parchment-lined baking sheet with the seam side down to keep them closed while baking. For an extra golden crust, brush the tops with melted butter. Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over each roll up — these finishing touches elevate the flavor and aroma wonderfully.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Melty
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for that beautiful golden brown color and bubbling cheese. Once baked to perfection, remove the roll ups and allow them to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the full, melty texture.
How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Serve these roll ups with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a light dusting of dried oregano for a rustic touch. Freshly chopped basil leaves can also add a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich, cheesy inside.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables or a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping are also perfect companions that accentuate the pizza theme.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the roll ups standing upright in a decorative basket lined with a colorful napkin for parties or game day snacks. You could also thread them onto skewers for a fun presentation or serve alongside small cups of different dipping sauces like ranch, garlic butter, or spicy marinara.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them airtight helps maintain the freshness of the dough and prevents the cheese from drying out.
Freezing
The Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups Recipe freezes beautifully before baking. Just assemble and roll them up, then place on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and keep for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness and warm the cheese thoroughly. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that delightful crispy exterior.
FAQs
Can I use regular pizza dough instead of crescent roll dough?
Absolutely! Regular pizza dough can work too, though it might yield a chewier texture rather than the flaky buttery crust crescent dough provides. Just roll it out thin and cut into triangles.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the pepperoni or replace it with vegetarian pepperoni or other veggies like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for extra flavor and texture.
Can I add other cheeses to the roll ups?
Feel free to mix it up! Cheddar, fontina, or provolone can add different flavor dimensions, but mozzarella remains the best for that perfect melt and stretch.
What’s the best dipping sauce to serve with these roll ups?
Classic marinara or pizza sauce is the obvious choice, but ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo all pair wonderfully if you want to get creative.
How can I make these roll ups spicier?
Try adding crushed red pepper flakes inside the roll ups before baking or choose a spicy pepperoni. Serving with a spicy dipping sauce adds even more heat.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and joyous about pulling fresh, hot Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups Recipe out of the oven. The way the cheese stretches, the pepperoni’s punch of flavor, and the buttery golden crust combine to make a snack or meal that’s simply unforgettable. I hope you give this recipe a try and create many happy memories sharing these delicious roll ups with family and friends!
