Pepperoni Cheese Rolls Recipe

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Introduction

Pepperoni Cheese Rolls are a delightful, savory snack or appetizer perfect for pizza lovers. These rolls are filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and flavorful pepperoni, wrapped in golden pizza dough and baked to perfection. With minimal ingredients and a quick preparation process, they’re a great choice for game nights, parties, or casual family dinners.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe uses refrigerated pizza dough for convenience, making it easy to create delicious rolls in just a few steps. Seasoned with garlic powder and oregano, these rolls offer classic pizza flavors in a fun, portable form. They’re ready in under 30 minutes and pair well with marinara or ranch for dipping.

Ingredients

  • 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

  1. Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface.
  2. Spread a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.

Step 3: Add the Pepperoni

  1. Evenly distribute the sliced pepperoni over the layer of cheese.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

  1. Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
  2. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 6-8 equal pieces.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

  1. Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet with the cut side facing up.
  2. Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil.
  3. Sprinkle dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the rolls.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your fingers or tongue on the hot cheese.
  2. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dip on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Pepperoni Cheese Rolls are versatile and can be served as:

  • An appetizer: Pair with a marinara dipping sauce for a pizza-inspired starter.
  • A snack: Enjoy on their own as a satisfying midday treat.
  • A party dish: Add them to your finger food spread for guests to enjoy.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

These rolls pair wonderfully with:

  • Marinara sauce: For a classic pizza flavor.
  • Garlic butter dip: A rich, indulgent option.
  • Ranch dressing: For a tangy, creamy complement.
  • Crisp green salad: To balance the richness of the rolls.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Veggie Cheese Rolls

Replace pepperoni with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a vegetarian version.

2. Spicy Cheese Rolls

Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

3. Meat Lovers Rolls

Include additional meats like cooked sausage or diced chicken for a heartier roll.

4. Cheesy Garlic Rolls

Omit the pepperoni and add more garlic powder and Parmesan cheese for a garlic bread-inspired twist.

Health Benefits Notes

  1. Mozzarella Cheese: A good source of protein and calcium. Opt for low-fat mozzarella to reduce calories.
  2. Pepperoni: Provides flavor but is high in sodium; use sparingly or substitute with turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
  3. Pizza Dough: Use whole-wheat dough for added fiber and nutrients.

FAQs

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze Pepperoni Cheese Rolls?

Yes, freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

3. What other cheeses can I use?

Cheddar, Parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses can be used instead of or in addition to mozzarella.

4. Can I use homemade dough?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s rolled out to the same size as store-bought dough.

5. How do I keep the rolls from unrolling during baking?

Make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the edge to seal it. Placing the rolls seam-side down on the baking sheet can also help.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Cheese Rolls are a quick and delicious snack that captures the essence of pizza in a fun, bite-sized form. With their gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and perfectly seasoned dough, these rolls are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try them for your next party, game night, or casual dinner and enjoy this flavorful, easy-to-make treat!

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