Description
Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bites
Ingredients:
1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
8 slices of pepperoni (plus extra for topping)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter, melted
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Dough: Flatten each biscuit dough piece slightly. Place a slice of pepperoni and a small handful of mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough.
3. Seal and Shape: Fold the edges of the dough around the filling, pinching to seal. Roll into a ball and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
4. Top with Flavor: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush over the tops of the dough balls. Add a slice of pepperoni on top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve: Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect pizza bites every time. First, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet. Separate the biscuit and flatten each into a 3-inch circle. Place one pepperoni slice and about 1 tablespoon of mozzarella in the center. Carefully gather the dough edges over the filling, pinching firmly to create a tight seal. Roll gently in your hands to form a smooth ball. Place seam-side down on the sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Generously brush this mixture over each ball. Press an extra pepperoni slice onto the top of each, then sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake on the middle rack for 12-15 minutes until deeply golden. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious alone, these bites are elevated with the right accompaniments. Serve warm with a side of marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping. For a fuller appetizer spread, pair them with breadsticks, a fresh garden salad, or buffalo wings. They also make a fantastic party snack; keep them warm in a slow cooker on the ‘warm’ setting. For a kid-friendly meal, serve alongside carrot sticks and apple slices.
How-to Summary
Flatten biscuit dough, fill with pepperoni and cheese, seal into a ball. Brush with seasoned butter, top with more pepperoni and Parmesan. Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 12-15 minutes until golden. Serve warm with dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade dough instead of canned biscuits?
Absolutely. Use a simple pizza dough or even crescent roll dough. Portion it into 8 small balls and flatten before filling.
How can I make these ahead of time?
Assemble the bites up to the point of brushing with butter. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Brush with butter and add toppings just before baking.
Can I freeze the baked or unbaked pizza bites?
Yes. For best results, freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes. You can also freeze baked bites and reheat in the oven.
What are some filling variations?
Try cooked sausage, diced ham, mushrooms, olives, or jalapeños. For a cheesier version, mix cream cheese with the mozzarella.
Why did my pizza bites leak cheese?
This usually means the seal wasn’t tight enough. Ensure you pinch the dough firmly and roll it smoothly. Also, avoid overfilling with cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not sealing the dough properly: A weak seal causes filling to leak. Pinch dough thoroughly.
- Overfilling: Too much cheese creates pressure and breaks the dough. Use a moderate tablespoon.
- Using cold butter for brushing: Melt the butter completely so the seasoning mixes in evenly.
- Overcrowding the pan: Space the bites out to allow for proper air circulation and browning.
- Skipping the parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bites are the ultimate quick and satisfying snack, combining familiar flavors in a fun, shareable format. With a simple method and easy-to-find ingredients, they are perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or getting kids involved in the kitchen. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve golden, cheesy perfection every time. Experiment with different fillings and dips to make this versatile recipe your own.