If you are looking for a fun, crowd-pleasing snack that brings all the flavors of a classic pizza into handheld bites, then these Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups for a Crowd are exactly what you need. Imagine golden, crispy edges wrapped around melty mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and perfectly seasoned pepperoni—each roll-up bursting with irresistible pizza goodness. These are fantastic for parties, game days, or any gathering where sharing a simple, savory treat is the star of the menu. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they vanish from the plate quicker than any other appetizer!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, working together harmoniously to deliver that authentic pizza flavor and perfect texture in every bite.
- Refrigerated pizza dough: Provides a soft, chewy base that crisps nicely when baked.
- Pizza sauce: Offers tangy, tomatoey moisture that pairs perfectly with the cheese and meats.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey pockets of cheesy goodness throughout each bite.
- Pepperoni slices: Deliver a savory, spiced punch that’s classic on every pizza lover’s list.
- Italian seasoning: Sprinkles of herbs like oregano and basil add depth and an aromatic finish.
- Grated Parmesan (optional): Adds a nutty, salty touch when sprinkled on top before serving.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups for a Crowd
Step 1: Prepare Your Dough and Sauce
Begin by unrolling your refrigerated pizza dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce over the entire dough. This thin spread ensures every bite has the perfect balance of moist sauce without sogginess.
Step 2: Layer Cheese, Pepperoni, and Seasoning
Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauced dough. Follow this by layering the pepperoni slices, distributing 20 to 24 slices so every roll-up gets its fair share. Finish with a dusting of Italian seasoning for that classic herby pizza aroma that makes your mouth water.
Step 3: Roll It Up Tightly
With all the fillings in place, carefully roll the dough into a tight log starting from one edge. The tight rolling ensures each slice holds together and looks beautiful once baked.
Step 4: Slice Into Roll-Ups
Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 1-inch thick rounds. This size cooks evenly and gives the perfect bite-size roll-up, ideal for serving a crowd.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the roll-ups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to space them slightly apart. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 12 to 14 minutes until the dough is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Serve Warm
Once baked, sprinkle the optional grated Parmesan over the hot roll-ups. Serve them warm alongside extra pizza sauce for dipping, enhancing every flavorful bite.
How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups for a Crowd
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a light sprinkle of chopped parsley add a pop of color and freshness to these pizza roll-ups. A drizzle of garlic butter or a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can bring extra flavor layers, making your presentation as exciting as the taste.
Side Dishes
These roll-ups pair wonderfully with simple side salads featuring crisp greens and tangy vinaigrettes, cutting through the richness. A bowl of marinara or ranch dip on the side also complements the heartiness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange the Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups for a Crowd on a large wooden board surrounded by colorful veggies for dipping or nestled in a basket lined with a red-checkered cloth for that pizzeria vibe at home. You can even serve them stacked like mini pizza sliders for an eye-catching display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This ensures they stay fresh but to enjoy the best texture, reheat them soon after.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these ahead of time, slice the roll-ups and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. This prevents sticking and lets you easily bake just what you need within two months.
Reheating
To revive their fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat refrigerated or frozen roll-ups in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain that crunchy crust.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and lets you customize the flavor and thickness to your liking. Just roll it out to the same dimensions as the store-bought dough for consistent results.
Are these roll-ups suitable for kids’ parties?
Definitely! Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups for a Crowd are a huge hit with kids due to their fun size and familiar flavors. They’re easy to eat with fingers and perfect for little hands.
Can I substitute the pepperoni for other toppings?
Yes, you can easily swap pepperoni with other cured meats like salami or turkey pepperoni or even mix in veggies such as chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for a twist on the classic.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can create a quick blend using dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of garlic powder to mimic Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs also work well if finely chopped.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free pizza dough available at many grocery stores or make your own using gluten-free flour blends. Just be mindful to adjust baking times for your specific dough.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and inviting about these Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups for a Crowd that makes every gathering feel a little easier and a lot more delicious. From their warm, cheesy insides to the crispy golden crust, they’re a guaranteed crowd favorite and a fun way to share classic flavors with friends and family. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to party snack that everyone will ask for again and again!
PrintPepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups for a Crowd
Delicious and easy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups made with refrigerated pizza dough, gooey mozzarella, and spicy pepperoni, perfect as a snack or party appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 12 roll-ups 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Base
- 1 sheet refrigerated pizza dough
- ½ cup pizza sauce
Filling
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20–24 slices pepperoni
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Topping (optional)
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a clean, lightly floured surface to an even thickness, creating a rectangular shape suitable for rolling.
- Spread sauce: Evenly spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the entire surface of the dough, ensuring full coverage but not too thick to avoid sogginess.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, layer the pepperoni slices over the cheese, then sprinkle the Italian seasoning uniformly on top.
- Roll and slice: Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape starting from one edge to the other, then slice the roll into approximately 1-inch thick rounds to create individual roll-ups.
- Bake: Place the roll-ups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the roll-ups turn golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add finishing touches: Once baked, sprinkle the roll-ups with grated Parmesan cheese if using. Serve warm, optionally with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, brush the edges of the dough with olive oil before baking.
- Customize fillings by adding other toppings like sliced olives, bell peppers, or cooked sausage.
- These roll-ups are great served with marinara sauce or ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
- Make sure not to over-stuff the dough to prevent the roll from bursting during baking.
- Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best results.