Print

Crispy Cheesy Baked Pizza Rolls

crispy cheesy baked pizza rolls - featured image

These crispy cheesy baked pizza rolls are an easy, homemade after-school snack featuring a golden-baked exterior and gooey, cheesy pizza filling without the grease or fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (about 250 g)
  • 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 3/4 cup warm water (180 ml), about 110°F (43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese (150 g)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (50 g)
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (120 ml)
  • 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (optional, about 50 g)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F/43°C) with sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add olive oil and the yeast mixture. Stir to combine, then knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour a tablespoon at a time if sticky.
  3. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the filling: Mix mozzarella, cheddar, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Fold in pepperoni if using.
  5. Roll out the dough: Punch down the dough and transfer to a floured surface. Roll into a 12×10 inch rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
  6. Assemble the pizza rolls: Spread filling evenly over dough, leaving a small border. Roll tightly from one long edge and pinch seam to seal.
  7. Cut and place on baking sheet: Slice roll into 1 to 1 1/2 inch thick pieces. Arrange cut-side up on parchment-lined baking sheet with space between rolls.
  8. Apply egg wash and cheese: Brush each roll with egg wash and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top.
  9. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake rolls for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  10. Cool and serve: Let rolls cool for 5 minutes on baking sheet before serving.

Notes

If filling is too watery, drain excess marinara or add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs. Roll dough thinner for crispier rolls. Preheat oven fully before baking. Avoid overloading filling to prevent sogginess. Egg wash is key for golden color and crispness. Store-bought dough can be used as a shortcut. Freeze raw rolls on baking sheet then transfer to freezer bag; bake from frozen adding 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: pizza rolls, baked pizza rolls, cheesy snack, after-school snack, easy pizza recipe, homemade pizza rolls, crispy pizza rolls