Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups

This cheesy pepperoni pizza roll-up recipe transforms classic pizza flavors into fun, handheld bites perfect for game days, after-school snacks, or casual entertaining. The spiral of gooey cheese, zesty sauce, and crispy pepperoni wrapped in flaky crescent dough delivers all the pizza satisfaction in a fraction of the time.

I first made these roll ups for my nephew's birthday party as a quick alternative to ordering pizza. They disappeared faster than any other dish on the table, and now they're requested at nearly every family gathering we host.

Ingredients

• 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough: perfect base for these roll ups giving you that flaky texture without the work of homemade dough
• ½ cup pizza sauce: look for a thick sauce to prevent soggy rolls
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: freshly shredded melts better than pre packaged
• ½ cup mini pepperoni slices: the mini size works perfectly in these roll ups
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: adds that authentic pizza parlor flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This temperature ensures the dough gets golden and flaky while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly without burning. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prepare the dough:

Carefully unroll the crescent dough on a clean work surface, separating along the perforations to create individual triangles. Gently stretch each triangle slightly for more surface area to hold your toppings.

Add the sauce:

Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on each triangle, leaving about ¼ inch border around the edges. This prevents the sauce from spilling out during baking. The sauce should be a thin layer, not too much to avoid soggy rolls.

Add the fillings:

Sprinkle approximately 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce on each triangle. Follow with 5 to 6 mini pepperoni slices, distributing them across the surface for flavor in every bite.

Roll them up:

Starting from the wide end of each triangle, carefully roll the dough toward the pointed end, tucking in any filling that tries to escape. The roll should be snug but not so tight that it tears the dough.

Arrange and season:

Place each roll up on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart, with the pointed end tucked underneath to prevent unraveling. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the tops of all roll ups.

Bake to perfection:

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the rolls are puffed up and golden brown. The cheese should be completely melted and might be bubbling slightly at the edges.

The first time I served these at a family gathering, my brother who claims to be a pizza purist actually asked for the recipe. He now makes them regularly for his kids, adding his own twist with a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top before baking. That moment made me realize how versatile and crowd pleasing this simple recipe truly is.

Make Ahead Options

These roll ups can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and kept covered in the refrigerator. Just add an extra minute or two to the baking time when cooking from cold. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked roll ups on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen by adding 5 to 7 minutes to the cooking time.

Creative Variations

Turn these roll ups into a pizza party by offering a variety of fillings. Try using different cheese combinations like provolone and cheddar. Swap the pepperoni for cooked crumbled sausage, bacon bits, or go vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers. For a breakfast twist, use scrambled eggs and breakfast meats instead of pizza sauce and toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pizza roll ups with a small bowl of warm pizza sauce for dipping. They pair wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette for a complete meal. For parties, arrange them on a platter alongside other finger foods like mozzarella sticks, garlic knots, or veggie platters for a crowd pleasing spread.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your roll ups are opening during baking, make sure the pointed end is tucked securely underneath when placing them on the baking sheet. If the filling is spilling out, you may be overfilling them. Less is more with these delicate rolls. For extra security, you can pinch the edges of the dough together after rolling.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of dough?

Yes, you can substitute crescent roll dough with puff pastry or pizza dough for a slightly different texture and flavor.

→ Can these roll-ups be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the roll-ups in advance and refrigerate them uncooked. Bake them fresh when needed for the best taste and texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the pepperoni or replace it with vegetarian-friendly alternatives like diced bell peppers or olives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best results.

→ Can I use different cheese types?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses, for a unique flavor.