There’s something utterly satisfying about biting into a golden, crispy roll bursting with gooey, melted cheese and savory pizza flavors. Cheesy pizza rolls have become my go-to snack whenever I crave comfort food that’s quick to prepare but feels like a special treat. Whether you’re tired of the usual fast food options or looking to impress friends at your next gathering, these rolls hit the perfect balance between indulgence and convenience. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can sneak in your favorite toppings or keep them classic with just cheese and herbs. Come with me as we dive into a recipe that turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing, mouthwatering delight that’s perfect for any time you want a little slice of homemade happiness.
Why choose Cheesy Pizza Rolls today?
Indulgent flavor: These rolls deliver that perfect blend of melty cheese and savory pizza spices in every bite. Effortless preparation: Simple steps make them ideal for busy days or last-minute cravings. Customizable delight: Add your favorite toppings or keep it classic for a timeless treat. Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, snacks, or cozy nights in. Comfort food hero: Say goodbye to boring fast food and hello to homemade satisfaction!
Cheesy Pizza Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – Use a soft flour for tender, chewy rolls.
- Instant yeast – Activates quickly to give your dough a perfect rise.
- Warm water – Helps yeast bloom for light, airy dough.
- Olive oil – Adds moisture and enhances the dough’s flavor.
- Sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle hint of sweetness.
- Salt – Balances flavors and strengthens the dough structure.
For the Filling
- Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that signature gooeyness in Cheesy Pizza Rolls.
- Pepperoni slices – Classic pizza topping adding a savory kick.
- Marinara sauce – Brings rich tomato flavor and moisture.
- Dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil) – Sprinkle these for authentic pizza aroma and taste.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty finish that complements mozzarella nicely.
For the Topping
- Egg wash (egg + water whisked) – Brushed on rolls for a golden, shiny crust.
- Sesame seeds (optional) – Add crunch and visual appeal to your golden rolls.
How to Make Cheesy Pizza Rolls
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish. This ensures even baking and a golden crust on your homemade rolls.
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Mix Dough: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl; let bloom for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in flour, olive oil, and salt until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead Dough: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. You should see a supple, silky texture.
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First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled.
For Filling & Assembly:
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Roll Out Dough: Punch down risen dough, then roll into a 12×8-inch rectangle on a floured surface for even thickness.
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Spread Sauce: Evenly spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border. This prevents overflow and adds flavor in every bite.
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Layer Fillings: Sprinkle mozzarella, pepperoni, Parmesan, and a pinch of Italian herbs evenly, ensuring each roll bursts with gooey, savory goodness.
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Slice Rolls: Starting at the long edge, tightly roll dough into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice into 12 even rolls, about 1-inch thick each.
For Baking:
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Brush & Bake: Arrange rolls cut-side up in prepared dish, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle sesame seeds. Bake at 375°F for 20–22 minutes until golden brown.
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Cool & Serve: Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes after baking. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy that cheesy pull.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheesy Pizza Rolls?
There’s nothing quite like the joy of enjoying golden, cheesy rolls alongside delightful side dishes that elevate your meal to new heights.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers add a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the cheesy rolls. A light vinaigrette complements beautifully.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery sticks echo the pizza flavors while bringing extra warmth and indulgence. Dip them in marinara sauce for double the fun!
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Creamy Ranch Dip: A cool, herby dip provides a delightful contrast to the warm, cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s perfect for enhancing your snacking experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, tossed in olive oil and seasonings, provide a nutritious, flavorful side that complements the rolls beautifully. The slight char enhances their natural sweetness.
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Buffalo Chicken Wings: For those craving a bit of spice, crispy wings tossed in buffalo sauce work wonders. Pairing the heat with cheesy rolls makes for an unforgettable flavor journey.
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Soda or Sparkling Water: Enhance your meal with a refreshing drink. A fizzy beverage cuts through the richness, making each bite feel light and fun.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note! These warm, gooey cookies offer a delightful contrast to the savory rolls, making for a perfect finish to your meal.
Variations & Substitutions for Cheesy Pizza Rolls
Feel free to get creative and make these cheesy pizza rolls your own with these fun twists and swaps!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to enjoy rolls without gluten.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan mozzarella and skip the Parmesan for a deliciously cheesy experience without dairy.
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Veggie-Packed: Add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. Every bite will be bursting with goodness; you won’t miss the pepperoni!
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Spicy Kick: Include jalapeño slices or crushed red pepper flakes in the filling for a delightful heat that enhances those savory flavors.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of dried herbs for a vibrant, fresh taste that elevates your rolls.
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Cheese Medley: Mix different cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a rich depth of flavor that makes each roll irresistible. The cheese combinations are endless!
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Sweet Twist: Add a hint of cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar to the dough for sweet pizza rolls, perfect for dessert with a drizzle of icing.
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Pesto Boost: Instead of marinara, spread a layer of pesto sauce on the dough before adding cheese for a herbaceous, aromatic experience that will impress any palate.
Enjoy customizing these rolls to make them truly your own—every variation is bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Pizza Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and the filling up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, follow steps 1-6 and then tightly wrap the rolled dough in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. This helps maintain quality and prevents drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the rolls, brush them with egg wash, and bake as directed. Additionally, you can fully assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just ensure to cover them with a damp cloth to keep them moist before baking. Enjoy those delicious rolls with ease on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Pizza Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Pizza Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Freezer: Freeze Cheesy Pizza Rolls individually by wrapping them in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, place rolls on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and cheesy again.
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, Cheesy Pizza Rolls can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours before they should be refrigerated to maintain quality.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Pizza Rolls
- Perfect Dough Texture: Use warm water (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it, ensuring soft and airy dough for your cheesy pizza rolls.
- Even Cheese Distribution: Scatter the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly to avoid dry spots and guarantee every roll has that gooey, cheesy center.
- Tight Rolling: Roll the dough snugly but gently to keep the filling intact and create neat, well-defined rolls that bake evenly.
- Watch the Bake Time: Bake just until golden brown—overbaking dries out the rolls, underbaking will leave doughy centers.
- Customize Wisely: Add toppings sparingly to keep the rolls moist and easy to slice without losing structure or flavor balance.
Cheesy Pizza Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my dough ingredients are fresh and ready for making Cheesy Pizza Rolls?
Use fresh instant yeast and check the expiration date on your flour. The warm water should be around 100°F (38°C) to activate the yeast without killing it. If the yeast mixture bubbles and foams within 5 minutes, you’re good to go!
What’s the best way to store leftover Cheesy Pizza Rolls?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container helps keep the rolls moist and delicious for longer.
Can I freeze Cheesy Pizza Rolls, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them all in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warm and gooey again.
What should I do if my rolls come out doughy in the center?
This usually means the rolls weren’t baked long enough or the oven temperature was too low. Next time, make sure your oven reaches the full 375°F before baking and test the rolls by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean with no wet dough. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to allow even heat circulation.
Are Cheesy Pizza Rolls safe for pets or people with allergies?
I recommend keeping these rolls just for people—they contain dairy and gluten, which can upset many pets. For allergies, you could try substituting mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese and use gluten-free flour for the dough, but results may vary. Always test small batches when experimenting with substitutes!
Irresistibly Cheesy Pizza Rolls You’ll Crave Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl; let bloom for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in flour, olive oil, and salt until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled.
- Punch down risen dough, then roll into a 12x8-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Evenly spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Sprinkle mozzarella, pepperoni, Parmesan, and Italian herbs evenly across the dough.
- Starting at the long edge, tightly roll dough into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls, about 1-inch thick each.
- Arrange rolls cut-side up in prepared dish, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle sesame seeds. Bake at 375°F for 20-22 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes after baking. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
