Description
Pepperoni Roll Recipe
Ingredients:
1 loaf of pizza dough or bread dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup pepperoni slices
½ cup pizza sauce (optional, for serving)
2 tbsp butter, melted
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Coarse salt for topping
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Dough:
Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 10×14 inches).
Add Fillings:
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border.
Layer pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
Roll It Up:
Carefully roll the dough jelly-roll style, starting from the long side.
Pinch the seam and ends to seal.
Season the Roll:
Mix melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Brush the mixture over the roll and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake:
Place the roll seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool & Slice:
Let it cool for 5 minutes, then slice and garnish with parsley if desired.
Serve:
Serve with pizza sauce or marinara for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
#PepperoniRoll #CheesyGoodness #EasySnacks
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect pepperoni rolls every time. First, ensure your dough is at room temperature for easy rolling. On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to create a uniform rectangle. When adding the cheese, press it gently into the dough to help it adhere. For the pepperoni, use a single, even layer to prevent the roll from becoming too greasy. As you roll, tuck and tighten the dough to create a compact spiral. Before baking, use a sharp knife to score 3-4 shallow slits on top of the roll; this allows steam to escape and prevents bursting. Always let it rest before slicing to let the cheese set, ensuring clean cuts.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this pepperoni roll can be elevated with creative serving ideas. For a party, slice it into one-inch pieces and serve on a platter with small bowls of warm pizza sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic aioli for dipping. For a meal, pair a larger slice with a simple side salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette. It also makes a fantastic packed lunch; wrap a slice in foil and reheat it briefly in an oven or toaster oven to restore its crisp exterior. For a breakfast twist, serve a slice alongside scrambled eggs.
How-to Summary
In short: roll out dough, layer with cheese and pepperoni, roll it up tightly, brush with seasoned butter, and bake until golden. The key steps are sealing the edges well and allowing the roll to cool slightly before slicing for the best presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Brush with butter and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Can I use different meats or cheeses? Absolutely. Sliced sausage, ham, or salami work well. For cheese, try a provolone and mozzarella blend or add a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor.
My roll is soggy on the bottom. What happened? This is often due to excess grease from the pepperoni. To avoid this, briefly blot your pepperoni slices with a paper towel before layering, and ensure your baking sheet is not overcrowded.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness. Microwaving will make it soft.
Can I freeze a baked pepperoni roll? Yes. Let it cool completely, wrap the whole roll or individual slices tightly in foil and plastic freezer wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Dough: Using too much cheese or pepperoni can cause the roll to burst open during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts.
- Not Sealing the Edges: Failing to pinch the seam and ends securely will result in cheese leaking out. Use a little water on the edges to help seal if needed.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting into the roll immediately will cause a messy, cheesy eruption. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes.
- Using Cold Dough: Attempting to roll cold, stiff dough will lead to tearing. Always bring it to room temperature first.
Conclusion
This pepperoni roll recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining the beloved flavors of pizza in a portable, shareable format. It’s incredibly versatile for snacks, parties, or meals. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a golden, cheesy, and perfectly baked result every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with fillings and dipping sauces to make it your own. Enjoy the delicious, homemade goodness!