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This tortilla pizza roll recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crave-worthy snack that's perfect when you need something delicious without the fuss of delivery. The combination of crispy tortilla exterior with gooey cheese and savory pepperoni creates a perfect handheld treat that disappears fast in my household.
I first made these during a weekend game night when we wanted something substantial but didn't want to pause for a full meal. They've since become our go-to solution for quick lunches, after-school snacks, and casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas soft taco size for the perfect roll that crisps beautifully in the air fryer
- Pizza sauce provides that classic pizza flavor without making the tortillas soggy
- Pepperoni slices add savory flavor and that authentic pizza experience
- String cheese creates the perfect melty interior and helps hold everything together
- Extra virgin olive oil helps achieve that golden brown exterior and adds flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Spread Pizza Sauce
- Start with exactly one tablespoon of sauce per tortilla, leaving that quarter inch border to prevent messy overflow. The border is crucial as it helps create a proper seal when rolling.
- Layer Pepperoni
- Arrange precisely 10 pepperoni slices evenly across the sauce. This specific amount provides the perfect meat to cheese ratio and ensures each bite has that classic pizza flavor without overwhelming the other components.
- Add String Cheese
- Position one room temperature string cheese stick at the edge of each tortilla. Using room temperature cheese is crucial as it will melt more evenly during cooking and create that perfect cheese pull when eating.
- Roll Up Tortillas
- Roll each tortilla tightly beginning from the cheese end, making sure the seam faces downward. The tight roll prevents filling from escaping and ensures even cooking throughout the roll.
- Preheat Air Fryer
- Heat your air fryer to exactly 375°F for 3 to 4 minutes. This preheating step is essential for achieving that perfect crispy exterior from the moment the rolls hit the basket.
- Brush with Olive Oil
- Use a pastry brush to apply a light coating of extra virgin olive oil across the tops of each roll. This step creates that golden brown color and adds a subtle richness to the exterior.
- Air Fry Pizza Rolls
- Place 3 to 4 rolls in the basket with adequate space between each for proper air circulation. Cook for 9 to 10 minutes until the exterior turns a beautiful golden brown and you can see some cheese bubbling at the ends.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the rolls to cool for just 1 to 2 minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth on the molten cheese interior.
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The string cheese is truly the secret hero of this recipe. I discovered through much experimentation that nothing else creates that perfect stretchy cheese pull that makes these rolls so satisfying. My teenage son once declared these better than delivery pizza after watching the impressive cheese stretch from his first bite.
Perfect Pairings
These tortilla pizza rolls shine when served with complementary sides. A simple green salad with Italian dressing creates the perfect balance to the richness of the rolls. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a cup of tomato soup for dipping. When entertaining, I arrange these on a large platter surrounded by small bowls of marinara, ranch dressing, and garlic butter for dipping options that please every palate.
Creative Variations
The basic recipe provides an excellent foundation for endless customization. For a Hawaiian twist, substitute ham for pepperoni and add small pineapple pieces. Vegetarian guests appreciate a version with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers and onions. My personal favorite variation uses buffalo chicken with blue cheese and a drizzle of hot sauce. You can even go gourmet with prosciutto, fig jam and goat cheese for an elevated appetizer version.
Make Ahead Strategy
These rolls are perfect for busy weeknights when prepared in advance. Assemble a large batch on Sunday, wrapping each uncooked roll individually in parchment paper. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. When ready to cook, simply unwrap, brush with olive oil, and air fry directly from refrigerated or add 2 minutes to cooking time if frozen. The convenience factor makes these a regular in my meal prep routine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of tortilla?
Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas with whole wheat, gluten-free, or low-carb tortillas for a different texture or dietary preference.
- → What other fillings can I add?
You can add diced vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions, as well as cooked sausage or bacon to customize your pizza rolls.
- → How do I prevent the rolls from unwrapping while cooking?
Make sure to roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the air fryer. Brushing the edges with a little water can also help seal them.
- → Can I bake them in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- → How do I store leftover pizza rolls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven until warm and crispy.
- → Can these be frozen for later use?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked pizza rolls on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Cook from frozen for a quick snack.