Description
Homemade Pizza Rolls
A fun and tasty way to enjoy pizza in a handheld form, with cheese, marinara sauce, and a crispy golden crust. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or easy meal!
Ingredients
:
1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Pizza Dough:
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle or square, about 1/4-inch thick.
Add the Fillings:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the sauce.
Optional: sprinkle Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Roll Up the Dough:
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log or cylinder from one end to the other, making sure the fillings stay inside.
Cut the Pizza Rolls:
Slice the rolled dough into 1-1.5 inch pieces, making sure they are uniform for even baking.
Bake the Pizza Rolls:
Arrange the pizza rolls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not too crowded.
Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and some Italian seasoning.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and allow the pizza rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping!
Enjoy your homemade pizza rolls, perfect for sharing with friends or for a tasty meal on the go!
Let me know if you’d like to add any variations or need more ideas!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect pizza rolls every time. First, ensure your pizza dough is at room temperature for easy rolling. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×16 inch rectangle. Use the back of a spoon to spread the marinara sauce thinly, leaving a 1-inch border. Evenly distribute the mozzarella and seasonings. Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seam to seal. Use a sharp serrated knife to gently cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Transfer them seam-side down to your baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. The olive oil brush before baking is crucial for a golden, crispy top.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on their own, pizza rolls are elevated with creative serving ideas. Serve them with a side of warm marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping. For a meal, pair them with a crisp Caesar salad or a bowl of minestrone soup. They make a fantastic game-day platter alongside wings and celery sticks. For a fun twist, offer different dipping sauces in small bowls for a taste-test experience.
How-to Summary
To summarize: roll out dough, layer with sauce and cheese, season, roll tightly into a log, slice into pieces, brush with oil, bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden, and serve warm with dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pizza rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble and slice them, then freeze on the baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use different fillings? Absolutely. Try pepperoni, cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, olives, or spinach. Ensure fillings are not too wet to prevent soggy dough.
Why did my pizza rolls unravel while baking? This usually happens if the dough log was not rolled tightly enough or if it was overfilled. Leave a clean border and apply gentle pressure as you roll.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven to maintain crispiness; the microwave will make them soft.
Can I use homemade dough? Definitely. A basic homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and allows you to control the ingredients and thickness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much sauce: A thick layer creates excess moisture, causing the rolls to be soggy and the dough to tear.
- Cutting with a dull knife: This squishes the rolls. Use a sharp serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Space allows for proper air circulation, ensuring even browning and crispiness.
- Not letting them cool: The molten cheese filling is extremely hot. A 5-minute rest is essential for safety and allows the structure to set.
Conclusion
Homemade pizza rolls are a versatile and crowd-pleasing treat that surpasses any frozen version. By mastering the simple technique of rolling and slicing, you unlock endless possibilities for customization. This recipe provides a foolproof foundation for a fun cooking project that delivers delicious, shareable results perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious, cheesy outcome!