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Let me share my absolute favorite party trick these Garlic Parmesan New York Pizza Rolls that make everyone go wild. I first whipped these up for a game night and now my friends won't let me show up to any gathering without them. They're like little bites of pizza heaven all rolled up with this amazing garlic butter situation going on. The best part? You get all that New York pizza flavor without the mess of trying to fold a giant slice.
The Pizza Roll Story
You know how some recipes just bring back memories? These rolls are my modern spin on those frozen pizza bites we all grew up with but trust me they're so much better. I've perfected this recipe to capture that authentic New York pizza joint flavor combining garlic Parmesan and soft dough in a way that makes everyone ask for the recipe.
What You'll Need
- Pizza Dough: 1 pound, homemade or store-bought, rolled into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
- Marinara Sauce: 1 cup, smooth and tangy, spread evenly over the dough.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1½ cups, shredded, for melty and stretchy texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated, divided for filling and topping.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for an aromatic, savory punch.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, to bind the garlic topping.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon, for a fragrant herb blend.
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped, for garnish and freshness.
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Let's Roll
- Prepare the Dough
- Roll out 1 pound of pizza dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Ensure it's even for uniform rolls.
- Layer the Ingredients
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle 1½ cups of mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese evenly.
- Roll and Slice
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 1-inch thick rolls. Arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Garlic Butter Topping
- Mix 2 tablespoons melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and the remaining Parmesan. Brush generously over the rolls.
- Bake and Garnish
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Mix It Up
My family loves to get creative with these rolls. Sometimes we add pepperoni or sautéed mushrooms inside. Last week I tried them with ricotta and spinach and they were amazing. The possibilities are endless just keep the cheese ratio balanced so they don't get too heavy.
Make Them Perfect
Here's what I've learned from countless batches: use fresh garlic not the pre-minced stuff it makes a huge difference. Pack those rolls snug in the pan they support each other while baking. And that garlic butter topping? Don't skimp it's what makes these rolls absolutely irresistible.
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Keep Them Fresh
These rolls never last long in my house but when there are leftovers they store beautifully in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to get that cheese all melty again. They freeze great too perfect for when you need a quick pizza fix.
Questions I Get Asked
Yes you can definitely prep these ahead just cover and refrigerate overnight before baking. Store bought dough works great when you're short on time. And if you're worried about spice start with less garlic you can always add more to the butter topping later.
Why You'll Love These
These aren't just another appetizer they're a crowd pleasing conversation starter. Every time I make them people gather in the kitchen asking when they'll be ready. There's something about that combination of garlic butter melty cheese and soft dough that just brings people together.
Final Tips
Remember to serve these warm when they're at their gooey best. I always keep extra marinara warmed up for dipping and sometimes whip up a quick garlic butter sauce too. Once you've made these your pizza game will never be the same trust me your friends will beg you for the recipe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought dough?
- Yes, while homemade dough works great, store-bought pizza dough is a convenient time-saver.
- → How do I prevent them from falling apart?
- Pack rolls tightly in the baking dish and ensure they're sliced evenly.
- → Can I make these ahead?
- Prepare rolls and store covered in fridge up to 24 hours before baking.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days. Reheat in oven for best results.
- → Can I add other toppings?
- Yes, customize with pepperoni, vegetables, or different cheeses inside the rolls.