Roll cheesy pepperoni goodness into bite-sized snacks that wow at any gathering! These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups are a game-changer for anyone craving pizza vibes in an easy, handheld form. Flaky crescent dough envelops layers of zesty pepperoni and melty mozzarella, finished with a crisp sprinkle of Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Whether you’re whipping these up for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive party spread, the process is delightfully straightforward, making this recipe perfect for beginners. With only 10 minutes of prep, 12 minutes of baking, and a brief 5-minute rest, you’ll have warm, cheesy roll-ups on the table in under 30 minutes. At just 200 calories apiece, these savory treats make a satisfying appetizer or light lunch without derailing your day.
I still remember the first time I introduced these to a Sunday afternoon game day at home: the second the oven timer dinged, the intoxicating mix of garlic, Italian seasoning, and bubbling cheese practically danced through the kitchen. Friends gathered around the table, marinara sauce in hand, and within minutes every plate was wiped clean. The simplicity of taking refrigerated crescent dough, layering pepperoni and mozzarella, and then rolling it into perfect little logs is what makes this so irresistible. You don’t need any fancy equipment—just a baking sheet, some cooking spray, and a bit of enthusiasm. As an avid home cook and SEO lover, I’ve tweaked this classic to highlight subtle garlic undertones and that signature Parmesan crust, creating a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to devour.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHEESY PEPPERONI PIZZA ROLL-UPS
Every roll-up shines thanks to a handful of kitchen staples that work together to create layers of flavor. From the soft, buttery dough that crisps to perfection, to the signature spices that tie everything together, each component plays an essential role in turning simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser.
- Crescent roll dough
This refrigerated dough is the base of your roll-ups, providing a flaky, buttery layer that bakes to a golden finish. Its easy-to-unfurl triangles make prepping a breeze and help lock in fillings.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Known for its stretchy, creamy melt, mozzarella forms the cheesy core of each roll-up. It adds gooey richness and the classic pizza pull-apart effect we all love.
- Pepperoni slices
These zesty rounds introduce a burst of savory, slightly spicy flavor. Layered in threes on each dough triangle, they ensure a balanced meatiness in every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Sprinkled on top before baking, Parmesan contributes a nutty, sharp edge and extra golden-brown crust, enhancing both taste and texture.
- Italian seasoning
A fragrant blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, this seasoning infuses each roll-up with authentic pizza-house flavor.
- Garlic powder
A pinch of garlic powder lends a warm, aromatic depth, complementing the cheese without overpowering the pepperoni.
- Marinara sauce
Served warm for dipping, tangy marinara sauce adds a saucy finish and a bright contrast to the rich, melted cheese.
- Cooking spray
A quick mist of cooking spray on the baking sheet ensures your roll-ups slide off easily, preserving their perfect shape and golden hue.
HOW TO MAKE CHEESY PEPPERONI PIZZA ROLL-UPS
Let’s walk through the simple steps that turn these ingredients into golden, cheesy roll-ups. Each instruction is designed to guide you toward a crispy exterior and a gooey, flavorful interior, so you can enjoy pizza perfection in every bite.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray to ensure nonstick results.
2. Unroll the crescent roll dough and carefully separate it into eight triangles, laying them flat on the prepared baking sheet so they’re ready for filling.
3. Evenly sprinkle each triangle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to build layers of flavor right at the dough’s surface.
4. Place 3 slices of pepperoni on the widest end of each triangle, then add a generous spoonful of shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring each roll-up will be loaded with melty goodness.
5. Starting from the wide end, carefully roll each triangle toward its point, fully encasing the pepperoni and cheese in the dough.
6. Position the roll-ups on the baking sheet with the seam side down; this prevents them from unraveling as they bake and keeps all the fillings snug inside.
7. Sprinkle each roll-up with grated Parmesan cheese, adding a savory, golden crust for extra texture and flavor.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes, or until the roll-ups are a rich golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
9. While they’re baking, warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan or microwave until it’s hot and ready for dipping.
10. Once baked, remove the roll-ups from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes so they hold together when you grab one.
11. Serve the pizza roll-ups warm with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping, and watch everyone dive in!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHEESY PEPPERONI PIZZA ROLL-UPS
Pairing these crispy, melty roll-ups with the right accompaniments takes your experience from simple snack to unforgettable spread. Whether you’re hosting a casual movie night or an impromptu gathering, here’s how to present them for maximum delight:
- Family-style appetizer platter
Arrange your roll-ups on a large, decorative board alongside small bowls of extra marinara sauce, pesto, and creamy ranch. The variety of dips keeps things fun and lets guests customize each bite.
- Fresh garden salad pairing
Serve roll-ups next to a vibrant salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber ribbons, and a light vinaigrette. The crisp, refreshing salad balances the rich, cheesy bites and adds a healthful note.
- Kid-friendly lunchbox treat
Wrap a couple of roll-ups in parchment paper and pack a mini container of warmed marinara sauce. Include crunchy carrot sticks or apple slices for a balanced, playful lunch that packs a pizza punch.
- Game-day snack station
Line up roll-ups in a long tray with different flavored dipping sauces—think spicy arrabbiata, creamy garlic dip, or tangy BBQ. Guests can mix and match, making every round of bites an adventure.
HOW TO STORE CHEESY PEPPERONI PIZZA ROLL-UPS
After enjoying these roll-ups, you’ll want to keep any leftovers tasting fresh and delicious. Proper storage ensures they remain flavorful and maintain their crispness when reheated. Here’s how to handle your extras:
Leftovers should be cooled completely at room temperature for about 5 minutes before storing. Rapid cooling and proper wrapping keep moisture in check and prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
- Refrigerator
Place cooled roll-ups in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store for up to 3–4 days, reheating in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to revive the crispy exterior.
- Freezer
For longer storage, flash-freeze roll-ups on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. Remove excess air before sealing. Freeze for up to 2 months, and reheat straight from frozen at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.
- Meal prep packs
Individually wrap each roll-up in parchment or foil, then group them in a container. This makes portioning simple and keeps each roll-up from sticking together. Label with the date for easy rotation.
- Sauce storage
Store leftover marinara sauce in a separate, sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain smooth consistency.
CONCLUSION
What started as a craving for pizza has transformed into a beloved recipe that’s both approachable and endlessly adaptable. These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups bring together flaky crescent dough, zesty pepperoni, and gooey mozzarella to create a snack that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a quick bake of 12 minutes, you can have a platter of golden, cheese-stuffed delights ready in under half an hour. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer that impresses at a party or a fun lunch that the kids will actually devour, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Don’t forget the tangy marinara sauce on the side and the sprinkle of Parmesan and Italian seasoning—they’re the little touches that elevate these roll-ups from simple to sensational.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later reference; it’s designed to be your go-to guide whenever the pizza mood strikes. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section to address common questions, from ingredient swaps to reheating tips. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out: share your successes, ask for troubleshooting help, or drop any feedback in the comments. Cooking is always better when we connect, learn, and savor the results together!
Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups
Description
These roll-ups pack melty mozzarella and zesty pepperoni into flaky crescent dough, baked to golden perfection and begging to be dipped in tangy marinara.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
-
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into 8 triangles, laying them flat on the prepared baking sheet.
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Sprinkle each triangle evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to add flavor.
-
Place 3 slices of pepperoni and a spoonful of mozzarella cheese on the widest end of each triangle.
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Starting from the wide end, carefully roll up each triangle toward the point, encasing the pepperoni and cheese.
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Arrange the roll-ups on the baking sheet with the seam side down to prevent unraveling.
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Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each roll-up for an added cheesy crust.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the roll-ups are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
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While the pizza roll-ups are baking, warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan or microwave for serving.
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Once baked, remove the roll-ups from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
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Serve the pizza roll-ups warm with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Note
- Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, for varied flavors.
- You can add diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture.
- These roll-ups make a great appetizer for parties and gatherings.
- Make sure the ends are sealed well to keep the filling from spilling out while baking.
- Marinara sauce can be enriched with red pepper flakes for a spicier dip.
