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These cheesy pizza rolls are my go-to when I crave something fun for game night or a cozy dinner with family. Each soft, golden roll is filled with gooey cheese and savory pizza goodness, making them perfect alongside a warm bowl of marinara. Whether you want a new appetizer or a twist on pizza night, everyone’ll be asking for more.
I whipped these up for my nephew’s birthday, and even the fussy eaters couldn’t get enough, fighting over the last one. Now, they’re a must-have for our family movie nights.
Ingredients
- Frozen rolls: Thaw the rolls until they’re soft but not puffy. They should feel slightly firm to the touch for easy shaping and fluffy baking.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded cheese melts perfectly for that iconic pull. Freshly shredded from a block will be creamier than prepackaged.
- Cooked sausage or pepperoni: Go with your favorite or swap in some diced veggies for a vegetarian option. Choose quality cured meats for the best flavor.
- Melted butter: Adds richness and helps the seasoning stick. Real butter gives the best taste.
- Italian seasoning: Gives off that classic pizzeria smell. A mix with oregano, basil, and rosemary packs the boldest flavor.
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm, garlicky kick. Go for a fine powder instead of granules for better distribution.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish. Freshly grated has way more flavor than the shaker stuff.
Instructions
- Prep the Rolls:
- Start by letting your frozen rolls sit at room temperature for about two hours. They should be soft but not puffy, making it easier to flatten and fill without tearing.
- Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with nonstick spray to keep things from sticking.
- Flatten and Fill:
- Using your hands, flatten each roll into a three-inch circle. Place roughly one tablespoon of mozzarella and sausage or pepperoni in the center. Don’t overstuff or sealing will be tricky!
- Seal and Position:
- Gather the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch them tight to prevent cheese from leaking out while baking. Place each roll seam side down in your greased baking dish, making sure to leave space between each one.
- Combine the Coating:
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Stir well to combine the flavors.
- Brush and Sprinkle:
- Use the flavored butter to brush the tops of all the rolls, covering every bit to ensure a golden crust. Evenly sprinkle parmesan on top.
- Bake and Enjoy:
- Bake for fifteen to twenty minutes until the tops turn deep golden and the cheese inside melts. Serve hot with a warm bowl of marinara for dipping.
What I love most is the parmesan topping that crisps up beautifully, making each bite feel upscale. One rainy Saturday, my sister and I made a double batch, and somehow, there were no leftovers.
Storage Tips
Let any leftovers cool down to room temperature before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, put them in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees until hot and crispy again.
Ingredient Alternatives
You can pretty much use any pizza topping. Swap out mozzarella for provolone or cheddar. If you're into veggies, diced bell peppers or mushrooms work well. For a lighter alternative, turkey pepperoni or plant-based sausage taste amazing.
Serving Ideas
Pair these rolls with a big green salad or a classic Caesar for dinner. Serve them on a platter with a variety of dips like ranch or garlic butter as an appetizer. Spread out around a bowl of marinara for guests to grab and dip.
Cultural and Historical Context
Stuffed bread rolls take cues from both Italian panzerotti and American pizza pockets. This blend brings together classic pizza flavors with the trendy pull-apart bread concept. It’s the kind of easy dish that fits perfectly at casual gatherings or cozy nights indoors.
Seasonal Variations
In summer, add fresh tomatoes and basil for a caprese spin. In fall, try roasted root veggies for a heartier filling. During winter, crumbled cooked bacon and spinach make a lovely warming option.
Notes for Success
Thawing the rolls just the right amount is crucial for easy shaping. Don’t skip brushing with butter since it brings that classic pizzeria flavor. If you're baking from frozen, add about eight extra minutes and cover them for the first part of baking.
Success Stories
Friends have taken these to potlucks and returned home with empty trays. They freeze well, so you can prep them ahead and bake only what you need. If you have little helpers, shaping and sealing the rolls is surprisingly fun and really hands-on.
Freezer Meal Tips
After you've shaped and filled the rolls but before baking, place them on a tray and freeze them solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag and keep them frozen. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding about ten extra minutes to the bake time.
These pizza rolls disappear fast. Make a double batch to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What kind of cheese works best in these rolls?
Mozzarella is the go-to for its gooeyness, but adding provolone or cheddar can kick the flavor up another notch.
- → Can I use different fillings besides sausage or pepperoni?
Sure thing! You can use cooked veggies, ham, or even shredded chicken. Just steer clear of anything too watery.
- → Is it possible to make these ahead of time?
Yep! You can prepare the rolls and chill them for a few hours. Bake them just before you're ready to serve for the freshest taste.
- → What dipping sauces work well with pizza rolls?
Warm marinara is a classic choice, but ranch, garlic butter, or pesto are tasty options too.
- → Can I use homemade dough instead of frozen rolls?
Of course! Making your own dough can add a unique touch and lets you play around with flavors and textures.