Pepperoni Pizza Rolls

Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are little bites of cheesy, pepperoni-filled goodness wrapped in a soft, warm dough. They bring together the classic flavors of pizza—tomato sauce, melty cheese, and spicy pepperoni—into…

By Riley • January 3, 2026 • Reading time: 5 min

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Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are little bites of cheesy, pepperoni-filled goodness wrapped in a soft, warm dough. They bring together the classic flavors of pizza—tomato sauce, melty cheese, and spicy pepperoni—into a fun and easy-to-eat roll. They’re perfect for snack time, parties, or when you just want a quick treat that feels like pizza without all the fuss.

I love making these because they’re so simple but always a hit with everyone. I usually make a big batch and keep them warm in the oven, so they’re ready whenever anyone gets hungry. One of my favorite tips is to add a little extra mozzarella inside, making each roll nice and gooey. It’s such a comforting and satisfying snack that reminds me of fun family pizza nights.

Serving these rolls with a side of marinara sauce for dipping just adds to the experience—my kids especially love dunking them and always ask for more! They’re great for sharing and perfect for times when you want something tasty without having to sit down with a full pizza. Plus, they’re easy to grab on the go, which makes them a favorite around here whenever something quick and delicious is needed.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pizza dough: Using refrigerated dough makes this recipe quick and simple. If you want, you can use homemade dough or even crescent roll dough for a softer texture.

Pepperoni: Classic pepperoni brings that great spicy, meaty taste. For a milder option, use turkey pepperoni, or swap for cooked sausage or veggies for a different twist.

Mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, giving a gooey, stretchy texture. You can also mix in a bit of cheddar or provolone for extra flavor.

Pizza sauce: Store-bought works well here; just pick your favorite brand. If short on time, tomato sauce or marinara can do the trick as well.

Seasoned butter: Brushing the rolls with garlic and Italian-seasoned butter before baking adds a lovely crispy, flavorful crust. You can skip the butter and brush with olive oil too.

How Do I Roll and Slice the Dough Without It Falling Apart?

Rolling the dough tightly and slicing evenly helps the rolls hold their shape and bake well.

• Roll the dough gently but firmly from one long edge, keeping the filling snug inside.
• Use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to cut the slices to about 1 inch thick.
• If the dough springs back while rolling, let it rest a few minutes to relax the gluten before continuing.
• Place rolls cut-side up in the pan with a bit of space so they can puff and brown evenly.

Following these steps makes sure your pepperoni pizza rolls stay neat and bake into delicious, golden bites.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking pan (9×13 inch) – holds the pizza rolls nicely so they bake evenly without sticking.
• Rolling pin – helps you roll out the dough into a flat, even rectangle for easy filling and rolling.
• Sharp knife – lets you slice the rolled dough into clean, even pieces without squishing them.
• Basting brush – perfect for brushing melted butter mixed with spices on top of the rolls for extra flavor.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the melted butter and seasonings before brushing on the rolls.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap pepperoni with cooked sausage or ham for a different meat flavor that’s just as tasty.
• Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost and extra color inside the rolls.
• Try adding some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Use different cheeses like cheddar or provolone along with mozzarella for a richer, more complex taste.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking pan – for baking the pizza rolls evenly
• Rolling pin – to roll out the dough flat and even
• Sharp knife – to slice the rolled dough into even 1-inch pieces
• Basting brush – for brushing the seasoned butter on top of the rolls
• Mixing bowl – to mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap pepperoni with cooked sausage, ham, or cooked bacon for different meaty flavors
• Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to include some veggies
• Mix in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños if you like it spicy
• Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone for richer taste
• Try brushing olive oil or garlic butter instead of seasoned butter for variety

Can I Use Frozen Pizza Dough for This Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the frozen dough completely in the fridge overnight before rolling it out. This helps it roll smoothly and bake evenly.

Can I Make Pepperoni Pizza Rolls Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare and slice the rolls, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake just before serving for the freshest taste.

How Should I Store Leftover Pizza Rolls?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.

What Can I Serve with Pepperoni Pizza Rolls?

Serve with warm pizza sauce or marinara for dipping. They also pair well with a fresh green salad or some roasted veggies to round out the snack or meal.