There’s something magical about a warm kitchen on a chilly winter day, the smell of bubbling cheese and sizzling pepperoni wrapping you in comfort. I remember my Nonna pulling fresh dough from the counter, hands dusted in flour, while I sneaked slices of mozzarella from the cutting board. But this modern twist—cheesy pepperoni pizza roll ups—is my own homage to her rustic pizza nights. It combines everything we love about pizza into perfectly portioned rolls that are fun to make, serve, and devour.
Whether you’re prepping game day snacks, kid-friendly dinners, or a movie night treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare – No long pizza dough fermenting.
- Family-friendly – Kids and adults will be begging for more.
- Customizable – Add veggies, switch up the meat, go gluten-free.
- Perfect for sharing – Great for gatherings, lunchboxes, or solo snacking.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Here’s what you’ll need for these irresistible pizza roll ups:
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade if you’re feeling classic)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 20–25 slices of pepperoni
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (plus more for dipping)
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, chopped fresh basil
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or casserole dish
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
- Pastry brush (for olive oil)
- Knife or pizza cutter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly.
2. Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle (about 10×14 inches). If using store-bought, it may already come in a sheet.
3. Add the Layers
- Brush the dough lightly with olive oil.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the surface.
- Spread an even layer of mozzarella and parmesan.
- Lay out the pepperoni slices evenly over the top.
4. Roll & Slice
Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice into 1-inch sections using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
5. Bake to Perfection
Arrange the roll ups on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Serve Hot
Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh basil or red pepper flakes, and serve with warm pizza sauce for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Pizza Roll Ups
- Cheese melt matters: Use low-moisture mozzarella for gooey but not watery results.
- Keep it tight: Roll firmly so the ingredients don’t spill out during baking.
- Dipping game strong: Try marinara, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for variety.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for best texture.
Variations to Try
- Veggie Delight: Swap pepperoni for mushrooms, olives, and bell peppers.
- Hawaiian Style: Add ham and pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix chopped jalapeños into the cheese blend.
- Breakfast Roll Ups: Use scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and cheddar cheese for a morning treat.
Pairing Ideas
To round out your cheesy pepperoni pizza roll ups, consider serving them with:
- A crisp Caesar salad or coleslaw
- Garlic parmesan roasted potato wedges
- A glass of chilled soda, beer, or a fruity red wine like Lambrusco
Why These Roll Ups Work for Winter
Winter is all about warmth and comfort, and these pizza roll ups bring it in spades. They’re hearty, cheesy, and baked to a perfect golden crisp—ideal for curling up with while watching your favorite holiday movies. Plus, they fill your kitchen with that intoxicating aroma of baking bread, melted cheese, and spices—better than any candle!
Reader Favorite Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls, cover them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Bake, cool, and freeze in a single layer. Reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Sure! Just reduce baking time by a few minutes and watch for a flaky, golden crust.