
These Garlic Butter Cheeseburger Rollups have become our go to solution for a fun, easy weeknight dinner that everyone in the family gets excited about. It combines the savory, cheesy goodness of a classic burger with the grab and go convenience of a pastry, all brushed with an irresistible garlic butter glaze.
I first made these on a whim for a game night with friends, and they were gone before the second quarter even started. Now, they're a staple for everything from quick dinners to party appetizers.
Ingredients
- One pound ground beef: an 80/20 blend provides the perfect amount of flavor and juiciness
- One teaspoon garlic powder: a key aromatic for that classic savory flavor
- One teaspoon onion powder: this adds a subtle sweetness that complements the beef
- One half teaspoon salt: essential for enhancing all the other flavors
- One fourth teaspoon black pepper: for a touch of gentle spice
- One cup shredded cheddar cheese: choose a sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy tang
- One cup shredded mozzarella cheese: this gives you that glorious, gooey cheese pull
- One fourth cup butter melted: use salted butter for the best garlic butter topping
- One 13.8 ounce can refrigerated pizza dough: the ultimate shortcut to a flaky, golden crust
Step by Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Continue cooking for about 5 to 6 minutes until it's fully browned and no pink remains. Carefully drain all the excess grease from the skillet so your rollup doesn't become soggy.
- Season the Filling:
- Return the skillet with the drained beef to the heat. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper directly over the meat. Stir continuously for about one minute to toast the spices and ensure the beef is evenly coated. This step really wakens up the flavors.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Lightly flour a clean countertop or a large cutting board. Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough and gently stretch it into a rectangle. Don't worry about making it perfect, just aim for an even thickness.
- Layer the Fillings:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the surface of the dough, making sure to leave about a half inch border along all the edges. Next, spoon the seasoned ground beef over the cheddar cheese, spreading it out into a single layer. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the beef.
- Roll and Bake:
- Starting from one of the shorter sides, tightly roll the dough up into a log. Once it’s fully rolled, pinch the seam firmly to seal it shut. Place the roll seam side down onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the entire surface of the roll with the melted butter. Bake according to the pizza dough package directions, typically around 20 minutes, until it's a beautiful golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Cool and Slice:
- Let the rollup cool on the baking sheet for at least five minutes before slicing. This is the hardest part, I know, but it allows the cheese to set so it doesn't all ooze out. Slice into one to two inch portions and serve immediately.

My favorite ingredient here is definitely the mozzarella. While cheddar brings the classic burger flavor, it’s the mozzarella that delivers that satisfying, stringy cheese pull everyone loves. I'll never forget the first time my kids saw it stretch across the plate, their eyes lit up, and I knew this recipe was a keeper.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the best texture, I recommend reheating slices in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy. You can also freeze the entire baked and cooled roll. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil and freeze for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Easy Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe is very forgiving, so feel free to make swaps. Ground turkey or even plant based crumbles are excellent substitutes for ground beef. If you want a little kick, try using pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella. If you don't have pizza dough, a can of crescent roll dough will also work, just note that the final result will be a bit sweeter and more delicate.
Perfect Serving Suggestions
These rollups are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when served with your favorite burger dipping sauces. We love setting out little bowls of ketchup, mustard, and a creamy ranch or burger sauce. To make it a complete meal, serve them alongside a crisp green salad, some crunchy dill pickles, or a handful of potato chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the best way to prevent the cheese from spilling out when slicing?
Let the rollups cool slightly before slicing. This will allow the cheese to firm up a bit, preventing it from running out when you cut into them.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese would add a nice spicy twist. You can also use any other cheese that melts well, such as provolone or even a blend of cheeses.
- → What are some good serving suggestions?
These rollups are delicious on their own, but they're even better with your favorite burger toppings like ketchup, mustard, or ranch dressing. A side salad or pickles also make a great accompaniment.
- → How do I reheat the rollups?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for a crispy texture. You can also microwave them, but they might not be as crispy.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the rollups a few hours in advance, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving. This makes them a convenient option for busy weeknights.
- → Can I freeze the baked rollups?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating in the oven.