Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups Recipe Perfect for Dinner Fun

Posted on October 9, 2025

cheesy pepperoni pizza roll-ups - featured image

Introduction

The first time I made cheesy pepperoni pizza roll-ups, it was a weeknight dinner experiment that quickly turned into a family favorite. Picture this: gooey melted cheese, zesty pepperoni, and warm pizza sauce all wrapped up in golden, flaky dough. It’s like pizza’s fun-loving cousin that’s perfect for dipping, sharing, and savoring. Honestly, it’s a recipe that screams “comfort food” while still being ridiculously easy to make.

If you’re a fan of pizza nights but want to shake things up, these pizza roll-ups are your answer. They’re kid-friendly, adult-approved, and versatile enough to fit a cozy dinner at home or a casual game night with friends. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll wonder why this isn’t already part of your weekly rotation.

Let’s dive into the details of what makes this recipe so irresistible. Whether you’re looking for something quick, fun, or just plain delicious, cheesy pepperoni pizza roll-ups tick all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these roll-ups make dinner stress-free.
Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
Perfect for Dinner or Snacks: Great for family nights, parties, or even a solo treat.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves pizza flavors, and these roll-ups are no exception.
Customizable: Swap out pepperoni for veggies, sausage, or even a meat-free alternative.
Fun to Make: Rolling them up is a hands-on activity that kids (and adults!) will enjoy.

Unlike a traditional pizza, these roll-ups are handheld, making them perfect for dipping into marinara sauce—or eating straight off the baking sheet if you can’t wait. Plus, the combination of melty cheese and crispy dough is simply unbeatable. They’re the kind of recipe that makes you close your eyes and say, “Wow!” after the first bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create bold flavors without requiring a trip to a specialty store. Here’s what you’ll need:

Refrigerated crescent roll dough: The base of these roll-ups; look for a good-quality brand.
Pepperoni slices: Use your favorite variety—regular, spicy, or turkey pepperoni.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The classic pizza cheese that melts perfectly.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor and extra cheesy goodness.
Pizza sauce: For dipping and layering inside the roll-ups. Use store-bought or homemade.
Italian seasoning: Adds an herby kick to the roll-ups.
Garlic powder: For subtle, savory depth.
Butter: Melted for brushing on top; use unsalted if possible.

You can easily swap out ingredients depending on your preferences. For instance, try substituting cheddar cheese for mozzarella or adding chopped basil for a fresh twist. The roll-ups are incredibly forgiving, so feel free to experiment!

Equipment Needed

Here’s a quick rundown of the tools you’ll need to make these cheesy pepperoni pizza roll-ups:

Baking sheet: A standard-sized sheet works perfectly.
Rolling pin: Optional, but helpful if you want to flatten the dough slightly.
Pastry brush: For spreading melted butter on top of the roll-ups.
Knife or pizza cutter: For dividing the dough into portions.
Mixing bowl: If you’re preparing homemade pizza sauce.

If you don’t have a pastry brush, a spoon works just fine for spreading butter. And if you’re short on baking sheets, an oven-safe dish will do the trick!

Preparation Method

Making these cheesy pepperoni pizza roll-ups is straightforward and fun. Follow these steps:

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface. If needed, use a rolling pin to flatten it slightly.
Add the filling: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, followed by pepperoni slices and Parmesan cheese.
Season the roll-ups: Sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the filling for extra flavor.
Roll them up: Starting at one edge, carefully roll the dough into a log. Use your fingers to pinch the seams closed to prevent the filling from spilling out.
Cut and arrange: Slice the roll into equal pieces (about 1 inch thick) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down.
Brush with butter: Lightly brush the tops of the roll-ups with melted butter for a golden finish.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the roll-ups are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Cool slightly: Remove the roll-ups from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping—trust me, the dipping makes all the difference!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the roll-ups to burst in the oven. Stick to a moderate amount of cheese and sauce.
Use Cold Dough: Crescent roll dough is easier to work with when chilled, so keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to use it.
Pinch the Seams: Sealing the edges properly helps prevent leaks during baking.
Watch the Oven: Crescent roll dough can go from golden to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on your roll-ups during the last few minutes of baking.
Experiment with Fillings: Add chopped veggies or cooked sausage for a unique twist.

These tips will ensure your roll-ups turn out perfectly every time, whether it’s your first attempt or your tenth!

Variations & Adaptations

Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

Vegetarian Option: Replace pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni for extra heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough if available.
Cheese Lovers: Mix different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a unique flavor profile.

One variation I tried was stuffing the roll-ups with pesto instead of pizza sauce—it added a bright, herby flavor that was a big hit!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These roll-ups are best served warm when the cheese is perfectly gooey. Pair them with:

Dipping Sauces: Marinara, ranch, or even garlic butter.
Side Dishes: A fresh green salad or roasted veggies balance the richness.
Beverages: Serve with a cold soda or a glass of red wine for the adults.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture. If freezing, wrap them tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate breakdown per roll-up (assuming 8 servings):

Calories: 200-250
Protein: 8-10 grams
Carbohydrates: 18-22 grams
Fat: 10-12 grams

The pepperoni provides protein, while mozzarella offers calcium and some additional protein. Crescent roll dough is a source of carbs, making this a balanced treat that satisfies your pizza cravings.

For a lighter option, you can reduce the cheese or use turkey pepperoni to cut down on fat and calories.

Conclusion

Cheesy pepperoni pizza roll-ups aren’t just a recipe—they’re a moment of joy wrapped in flaky dough. They’re easy to customize, fun to make, and absolutely delicious. Whether it’s a quick dinner idea or a party snack, these roll-ups are sure to become a regular on your menu.

Give them a try, and let me know how you make them your own! Do you add extra spice, sneak in veggies, or stick to the classic flavors? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your variations and tips!

Now, grab your ingredients and start rolling! Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the roll-ups up to the baking step, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh for best results.

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?

Absolutely! Puff pastry will give a flakier, buttery texture, but make sure to adjust the baking time as it may cook faster.

What’s the best way to reheat these roll-ups?

The oven is ideal for reheating as it restores the crispy texture. Avoid the microwave, which can make the dough soggy.

Can I freeze these roll-ups?

Yes, they freeze well! Wrap them individually in foil and store in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What other fillings can I use?

Try barbecue chicken and cheddar, spinach and feta, or even a dessert version with Nutella and banana!