Pepperoni rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer featuring soft, fluffy bread filled with savory pepperoni and melted cheese. Originally a West Virginia specialty, these rolls are perfect for game days, parties, or a quick meal on the go. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they are always a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Uses store-bought dough for quick preparation.
- Versatile Snack: Great for lunchboxes, picnics, or party platters.
- Customizable: Add your favorite cheeses or extra toppings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the classic pizza flavors packed into a soft roll.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 can of refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough
- 24 slices of pepperoni
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Marinara or pizza sauce for dipping (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza or crescent roll dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Add Fillings: Arrange pepperoni slices evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning if using.
- Roll the Dough: Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
- Slice and Arrange: Cut the log into 8-10 equal rolls and place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve with warm marinara or pizza sauce for dipping if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10 rolls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Lovers: Add provolone, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses for a richer filling.
- Extra Toppings: Include sliced olives, banana peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for more flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni.
- Dough Options: Use biscuit dough, puff pastry, or homemade bread dough for different textures.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.
- Freezing: Wrap cooled rolls individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
FAQs
Can I make pepperoni rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls, refrigerate them before baking, and then bake them fresh when needed.
What dough works best for pepperoni rolls?
Pizza dough is classic, but crescent roll dough or even biscuit dough works well for a softer, flakier texture.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the seams well to avoid cheese oozing out during baking.
Can I use different meats?
Absolutely! Salami, ham, or cooked sausage are great alternatives to pepperoni.
Are these rolls suitable for kids?
Yes, kids love these rolls! You can keep the flavors mild by using regular pepperoni and basic mozzarella cheese.
What can I serve with pepperoni rolls?
Serve them with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or ranch dressing for dipping. A fresh salad or vegetable sticks also complement the rolls nicely.
Can I make a gluten-free version?
Yes, use gluten-free pizza dough or a suitable alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions.
How can I make these rolls healthier?
Use turkey pepperoni, reduced-fat cheese, and whole wheat dough for a lighter option.
Can I use fresh dough instead of canned?
Yes, homemade or fresh bakery dough will work beautifully and add a personal touch.
Can I bake these in an air fryer?
Yes, cook them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, checking for a golden brown crust.
Conclusion
Pepperoni rolls are the perfect blend of cheesy, savory, and satisfying flavors, all wrapped up in a warm and tender roll. They are a fantastic option for quick snacks, easy appetizers, or lunchbox treats. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, these rolls will become a new family favorite. Try them today and enjoy the irresistible combination of bread, cheese, and pepperoni!
PrintPepperoni Rolls
Pepperoni rolls are soft, fluffy bread rolls filled with savory pepperoni and melty cheese. Originally popularized in West Virginia, these delicious rolls are perfect for snacks, lunches, or as a party appetizer. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Lunch
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling:
- 150 g (5 oz) pepperoni slices (about 2–3 slices per roll)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
For Brushing:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. Divide and Fill the Dough:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 10-12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a rectangle.
- Place 2-3 slices of pepperoni and a small handful of shredded cheese in the center.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of Italian seasoning if desired.
4. Shape the Rolls:
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
- Roll the dough gently in your hands to create a smooth, sealed roll.
- Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush and Bake:
- Brush the rolls with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
- Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown.
6. Finishing Touch:
- Brush the hot rolls with melted butter for extra flavor and softness.
- Let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- You can add additional fillings like sliced olives, banana peppers, or sautéed onions for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven or microwave.