Pepperoni Rolls

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Pepperoni Rolls are a delightful snack or meal that combines the savory, cheesy goodness of pizza with the convenience of a handheld roll. These fluffy rolls are filled with beef or turkey pepperoni, gooey melted cheese, and a hint of Italian herbs, making them a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Perfect for game days, lunchboxes, or casual gatherings, these rolls are easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

I remember the first time I made these for a family game night. The warm, cheesy aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. What makes pepperoni rolls so special is their versatility—you can customize them with your favorite fillings, like adding a touch of marinara sauce, extra herbs, or even veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. For a fun twist, you can serve them with dipping sauces like marinara, garlic butter, or ranch to elevate the flavor.

These rolls are surprisingly simple to make with just a few basic ingredients, whether you use store-bought pizza dough or make your own from scratch. Rolling up the dough with pepperoni and cheese is a fun and quick process, and the result is a batch of warm, golden rolls that are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying snack, a portable lunch, or a party favorite, pepperoni rolls are guaranteed to be a hit!

Perfect for:

  • Game day snacks
  • Picnics and potlucks
  • Lunchboxes or quick dinners
  • On-the-go meals
  • Pizza lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Pepperoni Rolls are a must-try:

  • Customizable Fillings: Use your favorite cheeses and seasonings to suit your taste.
  • Easy to Make: Requires minimal prep and simple ingredients.
  • Kid-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike!
  • Portable: Great for lunchboxes, road trips, or on-the-go snacks.
  • Non-Pork Option: Made with beef or turkey pepperoni for a flavorful twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Resting/Rising Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
  • Servings: 12 rolls
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg

For the Filling:

  • 24 slices beef or turkey pepperoni
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

For the Topping (Optional):

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Beef/Turkey Pepperoni: Provides the classic pepperoni flavor without pork.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy center.
  • Garlic Powder and Oregano: Add a burst of Italian-inspired flavor.
  • Warm Milk: Activates the yeast, ensuring a soft, fluffy dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Pepperoni Rolls:

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Assemble the Rolls:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
  3. Fill the Rolls: Flatten each dough ball into a small circle. Place 2 slices of beef or turkey pepperoni and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese in the center. Fold the edges over the filling and pinch to seal.
  4. Shape the Rolls: Roll the filled dough balls seam-side down and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake the Rolls:

  1. Bake: Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Add the Topping (Optional):

  1. Brush with Butter: While the rolls are still warm, brush them with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese. Garnish with parsley, if desired.

How to Serve

  • With Marinara Sauce: Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
  • As a Snack: Perfect for casual gatherings or movie nights.
  • For Lunch: Pair with a fresh salad for a quick and satisfying meal.
  • On-the-Go: Wrap and pack for a picnic or road trip.
  • As an Appetizer: Arrange on a platter for parties and events.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure the dough rises fully for soft and fluffy rolls.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  • For a spicier kick, use spicy beef or turkey pepperoni.
  • Add veggies like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

  1. Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Skip the pepperoni and load the filling with mozzarella, garlic, and parsley.
  2. Vegetarian Rolls: Replace pepperoni with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
  3. BBQ Chicken Rolls: Swap pepperoni for shredded BBQ chicken.
  4. Hawaiian Rolls: Use turkey pepperoni, pineapple, and mozzarella.
  5. Spinach and Feta Rolls: Fill with sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Special Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling pin

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use store-bought dough? Yes, pre-made pizza or bread dough works great.
  2. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.
  3. What’s the best cheese to use? Mozzarella is classic, but cheddar or provolone also work.
  4. Can I make these gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough.
  5. Can I add extra fillings? Absolutely! Try olives, onions, or jalapeños for variety.

Conclusion

Enjoy the irresistible combination of savory pepperoni, gooey melted cheese, and soft, golden dough with these delightful Pepperoni Rolls. Perfect for parties, quick snacks, or satisfying on-the-go meals, these rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve them fresh from the oven and watch them disappear in no time!

This recipe is easy to make and endlessly versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite cheeses or add a touch of spice with jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging in a cozy treat at home, Pepperoni Rolls bring comfort and flavor in every bite.

I’d love to see how your Pepperoni Rolls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!

Leave a Comment