Introduction: Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls are a delicious and satisfying snack that combines the flavors of pizza into a convenient, handheld roll. Perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or party appetizer, these rolls are filled with savory pepperoni and gooey mozzarella, all wrapped up in soft, golden pizza dough. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in a comforting treat, these Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls are sure to hit the spot.
Overview of the Recipe: This Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls recipe is simple and straightforward, making it an easy choice for anyone looking to whip up a delicious snack in no time. The key ingredients include frozen pizza dough, pepperoni, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. The dough is thawed, rolled out, and layered with pepperoni and cheese, then tightly rolled, brushed with butter, and baked until golden brown. With a total time of just 40 minutes, these rolls are perfect for any occasion.
History and Origin: Pepperoni rolls have a long history as a popular snack in West Virginia, where they originated as a convenient lunch for coal miners. Traditionally, these rolls are made with bread dough and pepperoni slices, baked until the pepperoni releases its oils and infuses the dough with flavor. Over time, variations of the classic pepperoni roll have emerged, including this cheesy version that adds the delicious flavors of mozzarella and Parmesan. This recipe brings together the rich history of pepperoni rolls with the irresistible taste of cheesy pizza.
Ingredients:
- Frozen pizza dough
- Pepperoni slices
- Mozzarella cheese, grated
- Parmesan cheese, shredded
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce (for dipping)
- Garlic salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- Begin by loosely covering the frozen pizza dough with plastic wrap and letting it thaw at room temperature for a few hours. The dough should become slightly puffed up as it thaws. To prevent sticking and help the dough rise easily, spray the plastic wrap with cooking oil or brush it with olive oil, then place the oiled side down on the dough.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough is fully thawed, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to form an approximately 11 x 11-inch square. This size works well for making a single pepperoni roll. If you’re making multiple rolls, you can adjust the size accordingly.
- Brush with Olive Oil:
- Lightly brush the entire surface of the rolled-out dough with olive oil. This adds flavor and helps create a golden, crispy crust during baking.
- Add the Pepperoni:
- Lay the pepperoni slices evenly across the dough, making sure to cover the entire surface. For a more substantial filling, you can add a second layer of pepperoni.
- Add the Mozzarella:
- Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni, ensuring an even distribution. The mozzarella will melt into a gooey, delicious filling.
- Add Parmesan and Seasoning:
- Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella layer, then lightly sprinkle with Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Add Garlic Salt (Optional):
- For an extra burst of flavor, lightly sprinkle the surface with garlic salt. This step is optional but highly recommended for garlic lovers.
- Roll the Dough:
- Starting from one edge of the dough square, carefully roll it up tightly into a log. Make sure the roll is even and that the filling is well-contained within the dough.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Place the rolled dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. If you’re making more than one roll, be sure to leave space between each roll on the baking sheet.
- Brush with Butter:
- Brush the top of the uncooked rolls with melted butter. This helps the rolls achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for approximately 15 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and produce a hollow sound when tapped. The baking time may vary depending on the size of the rolls and your oven, so keep an eye on them.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, allow the pepperoni rolls to cool slightly before slicing. Serve them warm with a side of tomato sauce for dipping. The gooey cheese and savory pepperoni are best enjoyed when the rolls are fresh out of the oven.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions: Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As an Appetizer: Serve them at a party or gathering with a selection of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic butter.
- With Soup: Pair the rolls with a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting and hearty meal.
- Lunchbox Treat: Pack the rolls in a lunchbox for a satisfying midday snack.
Variations of the Recipe: This recipe is easy to customize to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetarian Pepperoni Rolls: Substitute the pepperoni with a vegetarian alternative or add a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
- Spicy Pepperoni Rolls: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese for a spicy kick.
- Meat Lovers Rolls: Add cooked sausage, turkey bacon, or ham along with the pepperoni for a meat-lovers’ version.
Health Benefits: While these rolls are a tasty indulgence, you can make small adjustments to enhance their nutritional value:
- Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat pizza dough to add fiber and nutrients to the rolls.
- Reduced-Fat Cheese: Opt for part-skim mozzarella and a lighter version of Parmesan to cut down on fat without sacrificing flavor.
Notes:
- Storage: Store any leftover pepperoni rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: These rolls can also be frozen after baking. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes.
- Serving Size: The recipe makes four large rolls, but you can adjust the size of the dough and the amount of filling to make smaller or more rolls as desired.
FAQs:
- Can I use homemade pizza dough?
- Yes, homemade pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s been allowed to rise and is at room temperature before rolling it out.
- Can I add other fillings?
- Absolutely! You can add a variety of fillings such as cooked sausage, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers. Just be sure not to overfill the dough to prevent it from tearing.
- How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?
- To prevent sogginess, ensure the dough is rolled tightly around the filling and avoid using too much oil or sauce inside the rolls. Also, make sure to bake them until the tops are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.
- Can I make the rolls ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. When ready to bake, let them come to room temperature and bake as directed.
- What dipping sauces go well with these rolls?
- Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for dipping.
Conclusion: Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With their golden, buttery crust and gooey, cheesy filling, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making them for a quick lunch, a party, or just to satisfy a craving, this recipe is a winner every time. Try out these Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls today and enjoy the savory goodness of pizza in every bite!