Cheesy Pepperoni Roll-Up is a mouthwatering appetizer that combines the rich flavors of melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and fragrant Italian herbs wrapped in soft, pillowy pizza dough. This easy-to-make snack is perfect for pizza lovers and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering, whether it’s a game day, a party, or a casual family dinner. Each bite is a combination of gooey mozzarella, creamy cream cheese, and the bold taste of pepperoni, making it an irresistible treat for everyone.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare. The dough is rolled up with a flavorful mixture of cheeses and seasonings, then baked to perfection, resulting in golden, crispy, and cheesy rolls that melt in your mouth. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal, these roll-ups are sure to be devoured in no time. Perfect for those moments when you crave something cheesy, warm, and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Make

With just a 15-minute prep time and 25-30 minutes in the oven, these roll-ups come together fast, making them ideal for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.

2. Deliciously Cheesy

The combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese makes the filling delightfully creamy and cheesy, ensuring a rich, satisfying bite every time.

3. Crowd-Pleasing

These cheesy pepperoni roll-ups are sure to be a hit at any event, whether it’s a family dinner, game day, or party. They’re bite-sized, making them perfect for sharing!

4. Versatile Ingredients

You can easily adjust the filling to your taste, adding extra spices, veggies, or different meats like sausage or ham, to make the roll-ups your own.

5. Great for Meal Prep

These roll-ups are easy to make ahead of time and can be stored or frozen for later, allowing you to enjoy a warm, cheesy snack whenever you want.

Ingredients

Refrigerated pizza dough
Cream cheese, softened
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Sliced pepperoni
Chopped fresh parsley
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Italian seasoning

Variations

Vegetarian: Omit the pepperoni and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham for an extra meaty roll-up.
Spicy: For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
Cheese Lovers: Use a variety of cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even gouda to change the flavor profile.
Dipping Sauces: Serve these roll-ups with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pizza Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle. Use a rolling pin to ensure it’s evenly spread.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sliced pepperoni, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until fully combined.

Step 4: Spread the Mixture on the Dough

Spread the cheese and pepperoni mixture evenly over the rolled-out pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 5: Roll Up the Dough

Starting from the long side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log. Pinch the edges to seal the roll.

Step 6: Slice the Roll

Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into 1-inch slices and place them on the greased baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart.

Step 7: Bake the Roll-Ups

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the roll-ups are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the roll-ups to cool for a minute before serving. Serve them warm for the best cheesy experience!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Filling: Be sure to spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough to ensure every bite is as cheesy as the next.
Use Fresh Dough: Refrigerated pizza dough works best for this recipe, as it’s easy to work with and rolls up neatly.
Slice Carefully: Use a serrated knife or a sharp chef’s knife to slice the roll-up to avoid squashing the rolls.
Add More Toppings: Feel free to load the rolls with more toppings, such as fresh herbs or extra cheese, to make them even more flavorful.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the roll-ups towards the end of baking. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the cheese should be bubbling inside.

How to Serve

Cheesy Pepperoni Roll-Ups are perfect for serving at a party, as a snack, or even as a main course for a casual dinner. Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a garlic butter dip for extra flavor. They’re also great alongside a fresh salad or crispy fries for a more filling meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cheesy Pepperoni Roll-Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

Freezing

These roll-ups freeze well, both before and after baking. To freeze before baking, place the slices on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen for 30-35 minutes. To freeze after baking, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To reheat, place the roll-ups in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but the texture may not be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of dough?

Yes, you can use crescent roll dough or homemade pizza dough as an alternative to the refrigerated pizza dough.

2. Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and slice the roll-ups a day ahead. Keep them covered in the fridge and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I add other meats to the filling?

Yes, you can add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham for additional flavor and texture.

4. How do I know when the roll-ups are done?

The roll-ups should be golden brown and the cheese inside should be melted and bubbly. If you’re unsure, you can check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F.

5. Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the pepperoni and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach.

6. Can I freeze these roll-ups before baking?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just assemble the roll-ups, freeze them on a baking sheet, and store them in a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen.

7. How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy?

Ensure that the cheese mixture is spread evenly, and don’t overfill the dough. This will help prevent any sogginess.

8. Can I add extra seasoning?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra herbs or spices, like red pepper flakes for heat or extra garlic powder for flavor.

9. Can I serve these roll-ups with a dipping sauce?

Yes, they pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a garlic butter dip.

10. How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

Conclusion

Cheesy Pepperoni Roll-Ups are an irresistible, cheesy, and savory treat that everyone will love. With their soft, doughy exterior and flavorful filling, these roll-ups make the perfect appetizer, snack, or light meal. They are quick and easy to prepare, customizable to suit your tastes, and can be made ahead of time for convenience. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit.