Pizza Rolls

This homemade pizza rolls recipe transforms classic pizza flavors into adorable, individual pinwheels that bake perfectly in a muffin tin. I discovered this technique when looking for a fun twist on pizza night, and it's become our go-to for game days and casual gatherings.

I first created these when hosting a last minute game night with friends. Everyone was so impressed by the presentation, they thought I had spent hours preparing them. Now they're requested at every gathering!

Ingredients

• Pillsbury pizza dough or store bought dough ball: forms the perfect base with minimal effort
• Pepperoni slices: traditional pizza flavor that crisps nicely during baking
• Mozzarella cheese: choose low moisture for best melting and minimal sogginess
• Pizza sauce: provides moisture and classic flavor throughout the rolls
• Mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers: adds nutrition and flavor complexity
• Garlic butter: elevates these rolls from good to extraordinary with rich flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin:

Preheat your oven to 350°F positioning the rack in the middle. Thoroughly grease all 12 cups of your muffin tin with cooking spray ensuring coverage on both the bottom and sides to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Dough:

For Pillsbury dough simply unroll it onto a lightly floured surface. If using a dough ball roll it into a rectangle approximately half inch thick making sure the thickness is uniform for even baking.

Layer the Toppings:

Start by spreading pizza sauce in a thin even layer leaving a small border around the edges. Follow with an even distribution of mozzarella cheese making sure to reach all corners. Add your vegetables in a single layer and finish with pepperoni on top which helps them roll neatly.

Slice and Roll:

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter mark 12 evenly spaced strips along the long edge of your rectangle. Cut firmly through all layers. Grasp one end of each strip and roll tightly toward the opposite end creating a spiral pattern with visible layers.

Add Garlic Butter:

Combine melted butter with freshly minced garlic and parsley in a small bowl whisking until well incorporated. Using a pastry brush generously coat the tops of each roll allowing some butter to drip down the sides.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The rolls should develop a golden brown color on top with visible bubbling cheese around the edges.

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The first time I made these pizza rolls my teenage nephew declared them "better than the frozen kind" and proceeded to eat six in one sitting. The garlic butter topping is absolutely non negotiable in our house it transforms good pizza rolls into an unforgettable treat.

Make Ahead Options

These pizza rolls shine as a make ahead option for busy households. Prepare them completely up to the baking stage then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve simply add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time. You can also freeze the unbaked rolls in the muffin tin then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Bake from frozen at 350°F for about 30 minutes.

Perfect Pairings

Serve these delightful pizza rolls with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette for a complete meal. For an appetizer spread pair them with buffalo wings vegetable crudités with ranch dip and mozzarella sticks. The contrast between the warm pizza rolls and cool crisp vegetables creates a balanced plate that will please both kids and adults alike.

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Troubleshooting Tips

If your rolls are browning too quickly on top but remain doughy in the center lower your oven temperature to 325°F and extend baking time by 5 to 7 minutes. For extra cheesy rolls add a sprinkle of mozzarella on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. If your dough is too elastic and difficult to work with let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade pizza dough works perfectly. Just roll it out to the same thickness and follow the instructions as written.

→ What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Mozzarella cheese is ideal because it melts beautifully, but you can also experiment with blends like provolone, Parmesan, or cheddar.

→ What are some vegetarian topping options?

You can use plant-based pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, olives, or even spinach for a tasty vegetarian version.

→ How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the muffin tin?

Coat the muffin tin generously with cooking spray or brush it with your preferred oil before adding the rolls to ensure they come out easily.

→ Can I freeze these pizza rolls?

Absolutely! Bake them as instructed, let them cool, and store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.