Tasty Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls with Dough

Featured in: Perfect Party Appetizers and Snacking Solutions

Craving a pizza-inspired treat? These cheesy pepperoni rolls are too good to miss! Made with pizza dough (store-bought or DIY), they’re filled with sharp provolone, fontina cheese, and pepperoni. They’re brushed with an egg wash, topped with Italian herbs and parmesan, then baked until golden brown. They freeze well, are crowd-friendly, and even have a spicy option. Serve them up with marinara dip and watch them disappear when game day, dinner, or snack time rolls around.
Chef with a smile, ready to cook and serve.
Updated on Sat, 08 Mar 2025 16:14:45 GMT
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Cheesy Pepperoni Snack | yummygusto.com

Nothing beats the classic combination of melted cheese and pepperoni wrapped in soft, golden pizza dough. This homestyle Cheesy Pepperoni Bread brings together the best flavors of pizza in an easy-to-share format that's perfect for any gathering. The rich aroma filling the kitchen as it bakes signals something truly special is about to be served.

This recipe became an instant family favorite after serving it at our summer cookout. The enticing smell drew everyone to the kitchen, and even the pickiest eaters couldn't resist coming back for seconds.

Key Ingredients Overview

  • Pizza Dough: Room temperature fresh dough provides the best texture and workability. Both homemade and quality store-bought options work well.
  • Pepperoni: Thin-sliced, traditional pepperoni delivers ideal flavor and even cooking.
  • Mozzarella: Whole-milk mozzarella, freshly shredded, ensures optimal melting.
  • Provolone: Adds depth with its rich, aged flavor profile.
  • Parmesan: Fresh-grated creates a deliciously crispy crust.

Preparation Method

Initial Setup
Let dough reach room temperature for 30 minutes. Heat oven to 375°F and prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Dough Preparation
Divide dough into eight equal pieces, shaping each into 6-inch squares on floured surface.
Adding Fillings
Layer provolone, seasonings, pepperoni, and mozzarella evenly across each square.
Rolling Process
Roll squares tightly lengthwise, sealing edges carefully. Place seam-side down.
Final Preparation
Brush with melted butter, add seasonings and parmesan, then cut steam vents.

Baking Guide

Success comes from proper temperature control and timing. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes in the middle rack position. Look for golden-brown crust and slightly bubbling cheese through the vents.

Working With Pizza Dough

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Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Bread | yummygusto.com

Temperature is crucial when handling pizza dough. The ideal dough should have the same softness as your earlobe - pliable but not sticky. Too cold and it resists stretching; too warm and it becomes difficult to shape.

Traditional Italian baking wisdom emphasizes the importance of room temperature ingredients. This simple step makes a noticeable difference in the final texture and rise of the bread.

Serving Suggestions

Present these rolls on a wooden board with fresh basil garnish and warm marinara for dipping. For casual serving, offer them whole with assorted sauces and fresh vegetable sides.

Variations

Try turkey pepperoni for a lighter version, or experiment with Italian meats like salami and capicola. Vegetarian options include roasted peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Add spice with hot peppers or pepper jack cheese.

Storage Instructions

Keep cooled rolls in a paper-towel lined container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For freezer storage, wrap individually in parchment and foil, then place in freezer bags for up to three months.

Close-up Cheesy Pepperoni Bread Recipe Pin it
Close-up Cheesy Pepperoni Bread Recipe | yummygusto.com

This reliable recipe consistently produces exceptional results, whether for intimate family dinners or large gatherings. The combination of quality ingredients creates a classic comfort food that everyone enjoys. Each batch brings the same delicious results that keep people coming back for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Is store-bought pizza dough okay for this recipe?
Absolutely, you can! Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before you start working with it.
→ How long do baked pepperoni rolls stay good in the freezer?
They’ll keep fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply wrap them in parchment paper and foil, then pop them into an airtight bag.
→ What’s the best way to warm up frozen rolls?
You can reheat them in an oven at 400°F for 25 minutes or use an air fryer at 360°F for 13-15 minutes until heated completely.
→ How should I store leftover rolls?
Wrap the leftovers in foil after cooling, and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for around 15 minutes.
→ Can I add a spicy twist to these rolls?
Totally! Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes inside and on top, and drizzle hot honey over them just before serving for extra kick.

Tasty Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls

These rolls bring together melty cheese, pizza dough, and pepperoni to create the ultimate hand-held bite for dinners or snacks.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Sandra

Category: Small Bites

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 8 Servings (8 pepperoni rolls)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Pizza Dough Base

01 1 lb of pizza dough, homemade or from the store—your choice!

→ Homemade Pizza Dough (Optional)

02 3½ cups of finely ground '00' flour—ideal for that perfect texture
03 2 tbsp of smooth olive oil
04 1 tsp of kosher salt for flavor
05 2¼ tsp of active yeast to make the dough rise

→ Filling & Toppings

06 8 oz fontina cheese, sliced to perfection
07 ½ lb sharp provolone cheese—grab it fresh from your favorite deli!
08 6 oz pepperoni slices, the main attraction
09 1 tsp divided oregano, plus extra for sprinkling on top
10 1 tsp divided garlic powder, plus extra to sprinkle as a finishing touch
11 1 large egg to brush on for that shiny golden glow
12 1 tsp water to mix with the egg wash

→ For Serving

13 2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
14 A pinch of Italian seasoning
15 Your go-to marinara sauce, perfect for dipping

Instructions

Step 01

If you're making dough from scratch, follow your recipe steps. Got dough ready in the fridge? Let it sit out for about 20-30 minutes to soften up.

Step 02

Turn your oven to 425°F to preheat. Shape your dough into 8 pieces (roughly 2 oz each) and roll each one into a 6-inch square.

Step 03

Lay one ounce of fontina and some provolone slices in the center of each dough square, leaving about half an inch of a border. Add 8-10 slices of pepperoni on top, then sprinkle ⅛ teaspoon each of garlic powder and oregano.

Step 04

Carefully wrap the dough around the fillings, tucking as you roll. Seal the edges by pinching them, and place each roll seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 05

Whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over the rolls, then sprinkle parmesan and a little Italian seasoning on top. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Don’t worry if cheese leaks out—it just makes things more delicious!

Notes

  1. These rolls are great for parties, kids' snacks, or even a quick meal paired with a salad.
  2. Looking for extra heat? Add red pepper flakes to the filling and drizzle hot honey over the top when serving.
  3. They store well in the freezer for up to 3 months, making them an easy prep-ahead option!

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush
  • Rolling pin

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • This recipe includes dairy (multiple cheeses).
  • Contains gluten, as the dough is wheat-based.
  • Uses eggs for the wash.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~