Pizza Rolls, or as we like to call them Prizza Rolls, are a fun and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that combines the flavors of pizza in a convenient, bite-sized roll. This recipe uses refrigerated pizza dough as a shortcut, making it perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a last-minute party appetizer. The rolls are customizable with your favorite pizza toppings, and they’re always a hit with kids and adults alike. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the recipe, ensuring perfect, golden-brown, and cheesy pizza rolls every time.
A Homemade Twist on a Classic (Optional Anecdote)
Store-bought pizza rolls were a staple in my house growing up, but I always wanted a fresher, more customizable version. This recipe is my take on those classic snacks, using simple ingredients and a straightforward method to create homemade pizza rolls that are far superior in flavor and texture. They’re a fun and easy way to enjoy pizza flavors without having to make a whole pizza.
Ingredient Descriptions: Building the Perfect Pizza Roll
Each ingredient contributes to the classic pizza flavor profile and the convenient roll-up format:
- Refrigerated Pizza Dough (8 oz Package): Provides the base for the rolls. Using refrigerated dough is a huge time-saver. Look for a rectangular sheet of dough if possible, for easier rolling.
- Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce: Adds the classic tomato-based flavor. Use your favorite brand or make your own. Pizza sauce is typically thicker and more seasoned than marinara sauce.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Provides the gooey, cheesy goodness. Mozzarella melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Mini Pepperoni Slices (Optional): Adds a savory, slightly spicy flavor. Mini pepperoni are the perfect size for these rolls. You can also use regular pepperoni, chopped into smaller pieces.
- Italian Seasoning: Enhances the pizza flavor with a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Adds a salty, nutty flavor and a bit of extra cheesiness.
- Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: Used for brushing the tops of the rolls to help them brown and become crispy.
Equipment/Tools: Basic Kitchen Essentials
- Baking Sheet: For baking the pizza rolls.
- Parchment Paper: For lining the baking sheet (prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy).
- Rolling Pin (Optional): For rolling out the dough if it’s not already in a rectangular shape.
- Cutting Board: For rolling out the dough and slicing the rolls.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the dough log.
- Pastry Brush (Optional): For brushing the tops of the rolls with oil.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: for accurate ingredient measurements.
Complete Recipe: Pizza Rolls
Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface, unroll the refrigerated pizza dough.
- If the dough is not already in a rectangular shape, use a rolling pin to gently roll it into a rectangle (approximately 10×12 inches).
3. Add the Toppings:
- Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce or marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border (about 1/2 inch) around the edges. This border helps prevent the sauce from leaking out during baking.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- If using, add the mini pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the toppings.
4. Roll and Slice:
- Starting from one of the long edges, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls.
5. Bake the Pizza Rolls:
- Place the pizza rolls cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil or cooking spray. This helps them brown and become crispy.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the pizza rolls from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve warm with extra pizza sauce or marinara sauce for dipping.

Troubleshooting Common Problems:
- Rolls are Soggy: This can happen if the sauce is too watery or if the rolls are overcrowded on the baking sheet. Use a thicker pizza sauce, and make sure to leave space between the rolls for air circulation.
- Cheese is Leaking Out: Don’t overfill the rolls, and make sure to leave a small border of plain dough around the edges.
- Dough is Sticking: Make sure to lightly flour your work surface before rolling out the dough.
- Rolls are undercooked/overcooked: Check on them a couple of minutes before the suggested time, as oven temperatures can vary.
Tips and Variations:
- Different Cheeses: Use a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan.
- Add Vegetables: Add finely chopped vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives. Make sure to sauté any vegetables before adding them to the rolls to remove excess moisture.
- Different Meats: Use cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, or ham instead of pepperoni.
- Garlic Butter: Brush the tops of the rolls with melted garlic butter instead of olive oil.
- Spicy Rolls: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them over the toppings.
- Pesto Rolls: Use pesto instead of pizza sauce.
- Air Fryer: Cook in an air fryer at 370 for about 6-8 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for dipping.
- Arrange on a platter with other appetizers, such as mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, or vegetable sticks.
Pairing Recommendations:
- Drinks: Beer, soda, iced tea, or lemonade.
- Side Dishes: Serve as part of a larger appetizer spread, or with a simple salad for a light meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate):
This is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 12 rolls). Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Saturated Fat: 4-6g
- Cholesterol: 20-30mg
- Sodium: 300-400mg
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugar: 2-3g
- Protein: 5-7g

Pizza Rolls: A Fun, Customizable, and Easy-to-Make Snack or Appetizer
Description
Learn how to make these delicious and easy Pizza Rolls! This detailed recipe uses refrigerated pizza dough for a quick and customizable snack or appetizer. Get step-by-step instructions, variations, and a comprehensive FAQ.
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface, unroll the refrigerated pizza dough.
- If the dough is not already in a rectangular shape, use a rolling pin to gently roll it into a rectangle (approximately 10×12 inches).
3. Add the Toppings:
- Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce or marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border (about 1/2 inch) around the edges. This border helps prevent the sauce from leaking out during baking.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- If using, add the mini pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the toppings.
4. Roll and Slice:
- Starting from one of the long edges, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls.
5. Bake the Pizza Rolls:
- Place the pizza rolls cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil or cooking spray. This helps them brown and become crispy.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the pizza rolls from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve warm with extra pizza sauce or marinara sauce for dipping.
Comprehensive FAQ:
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the pizza rolls ahead of time and store them, unbaked, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Bake them just before serving. You can also bake them and reheat.
Q: How long do they last in the refrigerator?
A: Leftover cooked pizza rolls will last for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked or uncooked pizza rolls. * Cooked: Let the rolls cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave. * Uncooked: Assemble the rolls, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
Q: Do I really need to use parchment paper?
A: Parchment paper prevents the rolls from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup much easier. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet.
Q: Can I use homemade pizza dough?
A: Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough. Just make sure to roll it out thinly.
Q: My dough is sticky. What should I do?
A: If your dough is sticky, lightly flour your work surface and your hands.
Q: Can I use different toppings? A: Absolutely! This is where you can get creative.
Q: Can I double this recipe? A: Yes! Cook in batches, or on multiple sheet pans.