Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! I can hardly contain my excitement as I share my go-to recipe for Easy Pepperoni Rolls. Trust me, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar without the need for culinary school! These rolls are perfect for game day, movie night, or really any occasion where you want to impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.
My love for these delightful bites runs deep—it harks back to my childhood, whenever my mom would whip them up for our Friday night pizza parties. The aroma of baking dough mingling with the cheesy goodness of mozzarella and a hint of Italian herbs always brings a smile to my face. And you know what? It also means I don’t have to share my snacks since they’re easy to grab and go!
## What’s in Easy Pepperoni Rolls?
Let’s break down the magic ingredients that come together to create these rolls.
Refrigerated Pizza Dough: This is your base, and using store-bought dough is a game-changer for saving time! I like the kind that’s flaky and rising perfectly in the oven.
Sliced Pepperoni: The star of the show! I usually go for a nice, spicy pepperoni, but you can choose your favorite type—turkey, beef, or even a vegetarian option if that’s your jam.
Mozzarella Cheese: Is it even a roll without ooey, gooey cheese? I always use shredded for easy melting, and you can never go wrong with a generous amount!
Marinara Sauce: This little dish of deliciousness is perfect for dipping. I like to use a good quality jarred sauce, but feel free to make your own if you’re feeling fancy.
Olive Oil, Garlic Powder, and Italian Seasoning: These flavor boosters take the rolls from simple to stellar. Plus, who doesn’t love that savory smell wafting through their kitchen?
Fresh Basil: This is totally optional, but it adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh taste. I love how it looks on the plate!
## Is Easy Pepperoni Rolls Good for You?
You may be wondering if these rolls have any redeeming qualities beyond being utterly delicious. Let’s have a look!
Pepperoni: While flavorful, it’s good to note that pepperoni can be high in calories and sodium. Just be mindful of your serving size, especially if you plan on devouring more than a few!
Mozzarella Cheese: Packed with protein and calcium, mozzarella is a tasty source of nutrients. Just be cautious of portion sizes if you’re watching fat intake.
Pizza Dough: The convenience of refrigerated dough means you can whip these up in no time, but it’s worth checking the label for whole grain or lower-sodium options.
Though these rolls are a little indulgent, they are best enjoyed in moderation (though I can’t say I’ve ever only eaten just one)!
## Ingredients List
– 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
**Serves:** About 4-6
## How to Make Easy Pepperoni Rolls?
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have yourself a plate of deliciousness in no time:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. You want everything to bake evenly without any stickiness getting in the way.
2. Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 12×8 inches. Just imagine how satisfying it is to see that dough spread out beautifully!
3. Cut the dough into strips about 2 inches wide. They don’t have to be perfect; remember, we’re going for rustic charm here!
4. Place a few slices of pepperoni on each strip, then add a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top of the pepperoni. Oh, yes, go wild with that cheese—don’t hold back!
5. Starting from one end of the strip, roll it up tightly to encase the pepperoni and cheese. Pinch the edges to seal because we don’t want any of that cheesy goodness escaping during baking!
6. Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet with the seam side down. This way, they won’t unravel and make a mess.
7. Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Already what they smell like is heavenly!
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through. Grab a glass of water, because the anticipation will get you!
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Grab your friends and family—they’ll flock to the kitchen with their noses in the air!
10. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving. Such a charming touch!
## Delicious Additions and Tips for Your Pepperoni Rolls
Play around with these ideas to make your pepperoni rolls even more special:
– **Cheese Variations:** Swap out the mozzarella for provolone, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses!
– **Add Veggies:** Throw in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for a little extra flavor and color.
– **Baked vs. Fried:** If you really want to indulge, try frying the rolls for a crispy outer shell!
So, what do you think? Can you smell those pepperoni rolls baking already? I hope you’ll give this recipe a go, and I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! Whether you’re watching the game, hosting friends, or just indulging in some self-care at home, these Easy Pepperoni Rolls are bound to become a new favorite. Enjoy every bite!
