Table of Contents

• Why You’ll Love This Pepperoni Rolls Recipe
• Pepperoni Rolls vs. Calzones: What’s the Difference?
• Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pepperoni Rolls
• Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Pepperoni Rolls
• Recipe Tips, Creative Variations, and Substitutions
• Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Pepperoni Rolls
• Storing and Reheating Leftover Pepperoni Rolls
• More Irresistible Pizza Appetizer Recipes
• Printable Pepperoni Rolls Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Pepperoni Rolls Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these homemade pepperoni rolls. They’re not just a snack; they’re a versatile, flavorful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:

• Freshly Baked Perfection: Say goodbye to the lackluster taste of frozen or pre-packaged options. Our homemade pepperoni rolls deliver a superior, fresh-from-the-oven flavor that simply can’t be beaten. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! For an even more incredible result, try making them with homemade pizza dough – it truly elevates the taste and texture. I’ve included a link to my easy recipe below and in the recipe card for your convenience.
• Remarkably Simple with Just 5 Ingredients: You won’t believe how easy these rolls are to prepare with only five core ingredients! Whether you opt for the wholesome goodness of homemade dough or take a convenient shortcut with refrigerated pizza dough from the grocery store, this recipe is designed for simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Minimal ingredients mean less fuss and more time enjoying your delicious creations.
• Incredibly Versatile for Any Occasion: One pepperoni roll makes a fantastic, satisfying snack to curb those afternoon cravings or fuel a busy day. Enjoy two, and you have a perfect, easy dinner that’s both comforting and quick. These rolls are a staple in my household, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal for the family or a festive spread during weekend game days. They’re always a hit, and we rarely have any leftovers to speak of!

Pepperoni Rolls vs. Calzones: What’s the Difference?

While both pepperoni rolls and calzones share delicious pizza-inspired fillings, they are distinct in their preparation and form. Pepperoni rolls are uniquely shaped like small breadsticks or savory dinner rolls, with a delectable mix of cheese and pepperoni baked right into their soft centers. They are designed to be a convenient, handheld snack or appetizer, perfect for grabbing and eating on the go.

On the other hand, calzones are crafted more like a savory turnover. They involve folding a larger piece of pizza dough into a crescent or half-moon shape, completely enclosing a generous filling of cheese, meats, and often vegetables. Calzones are typically larger, meant to be a more substantial meal, and are often sliced open to reveal their steaming contents, rather than eaten in a few bites like a pepperoni roll. The key difference lies in their size, shape, and the way their fillings are encased and consumed.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pepperoni Rolls

You’ll be delighted to know that you can count the main ingredients for these classic pepperoni pizza rolls on one hand, making them incredibly accessible for any home cook. Here are some notes on what you’ll need to gather, along with tips for best results. Remember to scroll down to the printable recipe card below the post for exact measurements and a complete list.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Pepperoni Rolls

Crafting these delicious pepperoni rolls is a straightforward process that will remind you of making a smaller version of my popular pizza bread. The assembly and baking steps are quite similar, with the main difference being the compact, handheld size of these rolls. Follow along with these detailed steps, and be sure to scroll down to the recipe card for the complete printable recipe instructions, including precise measurements.

• Prepare and Cut the Dough: Begin by lightly flouring your work surface and rolling out your pizza dough into a large, approximately 13×9-inch rectangle. Ensure the thickness is relatively even. Next, take a pizza cutter (or a sharp knife) and carefully cut the dough in half lengthwise. Then, cut each of those halves into 5 smaller, roughly equal rectangles, resulting in 10 uniform slices of dough in total. This ensures consistent roll sizes.
• Fill and Roll the Dough: Now for the delicious filling! Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese onto the center of each individual dough slice. On top of the cheese, arrange about 4 slices of pepperoni. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling difficult. Gently but firmly roll the dough lengthwise around the filling, starting from one of the longer sides. Once rolled, pinch the seams firmly closed to ensure the cheese and pepperoni stay securely inside during baking.

• Prepare for Baking: Carefully arrange your pepperoni rolls on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Melt your butter and use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops and sides of each roll. This melted butter will help them achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and crispy exterior. Finally, sprinkle each roll with a good amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory flavor.
• Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven at 450ºF (230ºC). Bake the rolls for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on the outside and you can see the cheese beginning to melt and bubble within. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-browning. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for just a minute or two before serving them warm with a side of your favorite marinara sauce for dipping.

Recipe Tips, Creative Variations, and Substitutions

This pepperoni roll recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some pro tips and exciting variations to inspire your next batch:

• Time-Saving Dough Hack: If you’re short on time but still want that delicious homemade taste, a tube of refrigerated pizza dough (like Pillsbury) is your best friend. It comes pre-rolled into a convenient rectangle, making it incredibly quick and easy to unroll, cut, and fill. It’s a fantastic shortcut that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Make Them Mini Pizza Rolls: Craving those nostalgic, bite-sized pizza rolls from the store? You can easily create a mini version! Simply divide the original 10 dough pieces in half again, yielding 20 smaller rectangles. For these mini rolls, you’ll need about 2 slices of pepperoni per roll and adjust the baking time slightly as they will cook faster. They are perfect for party platters or quick snacking, similar to the ones I use in my air fryer pizza rolls post.
• Experiment with Different Proteins: Pepperoni is classic, but why stop there? Get creative with other meats! Try diced or thinly sliced salami for a zesty flavor, smoky Parma ham, spicy chorizo, savory cooked Italian sausage (ensure it’s fully cooked and drained), or any other favorite deli meat or cooked protein you enjoy on pizza.
• Delightful Vegetarian Options: Easily make these rolls vegetarian by skipping the meat altogether. Instead, load them up with extra cheese! Imagine a “quattro formaggi” style roll with a blend of mozzarella, fontina, Parmesan, and a touch of gorgonzola for a sophisticated twist.
• Load Up on Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor with your favorite vegetables. Sliced sautéed bell peppers, caramelized onions, tender zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, or sliced mushrooms all make excellent additions. For best results and to prevent soggy rolls, I highly recommend pre-cooking any raw veggies (like onions, peppers, or mushrooms) to remove excess moisture and enhance their flavor before adding them to the rolls.
• Buffalo Chicken Inspired: For a spicy kick, borrow the fantastic toppings from my buffalo chicken pizza recipe. Fill your rolls with shredded cooked chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and a touch of blue cheese or ranch for a flavor explosion!
• Breakfast Pizza Rolls: Transform these savory rolls into a morning delight! Instead of pepperoni, create a breakfast-inspired version filled with crispy crumbled bacon or sausage, fluffy scrambled eggs, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. They’re perfect for brunch or a grab-and-go breakfast.
• Garlic Butter & Herbs: Instead of just melted butter, mix a clove of minced garlic and a pinch of dried oregano or Italian seasoning into your melted butter before brushing it over the rolls for an even more aromatic and flavorful crust.

Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Pepperoni Rolls

These versatile pepperoni rolls are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right accompaniments. They make an exceptional appetizer or a deeply satisfying snack, but with a few additions, you can easily elevate them into a complete and enjoyable meal.

Traditionally, I love serving these warm pepperoni rolls dipped in a rich, savory marinara sauce. The tangy tomato brightens the cheesy, meaty flavors beautifully. For a different but equally delicious experience, try dipping them in creamy homemade ranch dressing – it’s a popular choice, especially with kids! To transform these rolls into an easy dinner, simply add a fresh, vibrant side. A crisp simple tossed salad, a zesty tomato mozzarella salad, or a classic Caesar salad would all complement the rolls wonderfully. For a fun, kid-friendly dinner, consider adding some crispy air fryer tater tots to the plate. And for a sweet finish to your meal, these chewy Congo Bars make the perfect dessert!

Storing and Reheating Leftover Pepperoni Rolls

One of the best things about these pepperoni rolls is how well they store and reheat, making them ideal for meal prep or enjoying later. Proper storage ensures they remain delicious for days to come:

• Refrigeration: If you happen to have any leftover pepperoni rolls (a rare occurrence in my house!), simply store them in an airtight container or a resealable bag. They will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating for Best Results: While you can certainly enjoy them cold, reheating truly brings them back to life. For a crispy exterior and gooey interior, I recommend reheating your pepperoni rolls in either a preheated oven (around 350ºF/175ºC for 5-10 minutes) or an air fryer (at 325ºF/160ºC for 3-5 minutes). These methods help crisp up the dough and perfectly melt the cheese again. A microwave will also work for a quick reheat, though the dough won’t be as crispy.
• Freezing for Make-Ahead Convenience: Pepperoni rolls are absolutely perfect for making ahead and freezing! Once your baked rolls have cooled completely to room temperature, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container, ensuring they don’t stick together. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the oven or air fryer method for best texture.

More Irresistible Pizza Appetizer Recipes

If you love the concept of pizza in various convenient forms, here are some other fantastic appetizer recipes that are sure to be a hit:

• Pizza Sliders: Perfect for parties and easy to feed a crowd.
• Pizza Quesadilla: A creative fusion for a quick and cheesy bite.
• French Bread Pizza: Classic comfort, simple to assemble and bake.
• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese: Two favorites combined into one epic sandwich.
• Crock Pot Pizza Dip: A warm, bubbly dip that’s always a crowd-pleaser.