Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful snack or appetizer, look no further than these Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls! Picture golden, soft dough swirled around a rich filling of melted mozzarella, pepperoni, and creamy goodness, all waiting to be dipped in warm marinara sauce. These rolls are perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or when you simply want something cheesy and indulgent. The simplicity of the recipe makes it a favorite in our household; it always brings everyone running to the kitchen!
Overview of the Recipe
Making these Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls is a fun and straightforward process that yields scrumptious results! You can expect a warm, cheesy center enveloped by a soft crust and a burst of pepperoni flavor in every bite. The combination of creamy and stretchy cheese, zesty pepperoni, and the aromatic Italian seasoning delivers a wonderful taste experience. Best of all, you can whip up a batch in just 35 minutes!
History and Origin
Rolls filled with cheese and meats have long been enjoyed worldwide, often as comforting street food or snacks. These Pepperoni Rolls specifically hail from the West Virginia region of the United States, where coal miners would take them for lunches. Their popularity has expanded beyond the local area, turning into a beloved treat that combines convenience with indulgent flavors.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced pepperoni, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Spread the cheesy pepperoni mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving about an inch of border around the edges.
5. Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
6. Slice the roll into 1-inch thick pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg to give them a nice golden color when baked.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
10. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls are fantastic on their own but can be paired with a crisp salad or a plate of garlic bread for a heartier meal. Enjoy them with a refreshing soda, iced tea, or a cold beer to create the perfect snack platter for game day or a movie night with friends!
Variations of the Recipe
Feel free to switch things up! Here are a few alternatives:
– Vegetarian Option: Swap pepperoni for your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
– Cheese Lovers: Mix different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for added flavor.
– Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for some heat.
Health Benefits and Notes
While these Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls are certainly indulgent, you can make slight adjustments to maintain health benefits:
– Use whole wheat pizza dough for extra fiber.
– Opt for low-fat cream cheese and mozzarella to cut down on calories and fat.
– Serve with a side of mixed vegetables or a salad to add nutrients to the meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the rolls, slice them, and then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.
Q: What if I don’t have pizza dough?
A: You can use crescent dough or puff pastry as an alternative; both will yield delicious results, although the texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls are a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a cheesy twist! They’re quick to make and perfect for sharing—but fair warning, they might just disappear before your eyes! Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and variations, and let us know how your batch turns out. Happy cooking!