
Few snacks disappear as quickly as these Air Fryer Pizza Rolls in my home After making them once for a movie night they quickly became our go to party appetizer Easy to assemble fast to cook and endlessly customizable they bring out the inner kid in everyone
When I first tried these it was during a last minute get together The look on my friends faces when they tried them for the first time was pure joy and now they request them for every hangout
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: thin style gives the perfect crisp bite look for one with few additives for best flavor
- Pizza sauce: goes inside and is perfect for dipping too choose one with bright tomato flavor or make your own
- Garlic: fresh minced garlic gives a little zip look for plump heavy cloves for the best oil content
- Italian seasoning: classic pizza flavor from a dried blend check the date on your jar to ensure it is aromatic
- Pepperoni: diced small for maximum distribution turkey or classic both work
- Mozzarella cheese: shredded at home melts nicer than pre shredded and look for whole milk versions for oozy goodness
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Get your air fryer going at 400 F and line a baking sheet with parchment which makes assembly and cleanup much easier
- Mix the Sauce:
- Stir pizza sauce garlic and Italian seasoning together in a small bowl Give it a taste the garlic should shine but not overpower If your sauce is thin let it thicken for a minute
- Prepare the Dough:
- Lightly flour your surface so the dough does not stick Then roll out the dough into a perfect square about 12 inches by 12 inches Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to create 16 even little squares Place each on your prepared baking sheet
- Fill and Build:
- Add one teaspoon of pizza sauce mixture to the center of each square then a teaspoon of diced pepperoni and a teaspoon of mozzarella cheese Keep fillings toward the center so the rolls will seal
- Seal the Edges:
- Wet your finger dip it in water and run along the edge of each square Fold up one corner to the center then each side corner into the middle and finally the top corner down Press and pinch gently so all openings are sealed This prevents filling from leaking out in the fryer
- Spray and Bake:
- Lightly coat your sealed pizza rolls with cooking spray and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket Do not overcrowd Cook in batches if needed
- Air Fry to Golden:
- Cook for 8 minutes Check at 6 in case your fryer runs hot The rolls should turn dark golden brown Serve while hot with extra sauce or ranch for dipping

My favorite ingredient is the mozzarella cheese If you buy a block and shred it yourself you get that perfect melt every time Once my niece helped me shape the rolls and giggled every time the cheese tried to sneak out That memory comes back every single time
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days To reheat pop them in the air fryer for three minutes at 350 F so they stay crisp Never microwave unless you are in a pinch as they can turn soggy Pizza rolls can be frozen after cooking and then reheated directly from the freezer
Ingredient Substitutions
Try turkey or vegetarian pepperoni for a lighter version Dairy free cheese melts well and works for those avoiding lactose Whole wheat pizza dough makes these a bit heartier and sneaks in a little nutrition Marinara or pesto can be swapped for classic pizza sauce if you like
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm marinara or ranch for dipping A bowl of celery sticks or a green salad rounds out the meal beautifully At parties set up a pizza roll bar with different sauces and grated parmesan for a fun touch
Cultural Context
Pizza rolls have their roots in American snack culture created as a fun solution for busy families The air fryer twist brings a modern healthier method These are perfect for pizza themed movie nights or big game watching with kids and adults alike
Seasonal Adaptations
Use roasted veggies like zucchini or mushrooms in spring and fall Add thinly sliced fresh basil in summer for an herby kick During cooler months try adding a bit of cooked sausage or extra cheese for a heartier snack

A neighbor borrowed this recipe for her sons birthday party The kids absolutely demolished the first batch and adults started eyeing the platter too She now sends me texts every time they make them because they are now a top requested treat in her house
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?
Yes, homemade dough works well. Just roll it thinly and cut into squares as directed.
- → Which cheese is best for filling?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can combine with cheddar or provolone for more flavor.
- → How do I prevent the rolls from opening during cooking?
Make sure edges are sealed tightly with water and press down or use a fork to secure seams.
- → Can I add veggies inside the rolls?
Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives make great additions as long as they're finely diced and not too wet.
- → What dipping sauces work well?
Classic marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or even spicy aioli all complement these rolls deliciously.
- → Do leftovers reheat well?
Yes, reheat leftovers in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.