Homemade Pizza Rolls: 7 Best Recipes You Must Try Today

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What If Your Favorite Snack Could Be 10 Times Better Than the Bag?

Did you know that over 63% of American households keep frozen pizza rolls in their freezer at any given time? They are convenient, sure. But here is the truth nobody in the frozen food aisle wants you to know: Homemade Pizza Rolls absolutely blow the store-bought version out of the water. We are talking shatteringly crispy exteriors, molten cheese that actually stretches, and a flavor so rich and savory that you will wonder why you ever settled for that little foil bag in the first place.

Whether you are hosting a game-day party, packing a fun after-school snack, or simply craving that classic pizza flavor in bite-sized form, this guide has everything you need. We have compiled the 7 best homemade pizza rolls recipes, loaded with tips, tricks, and variations that suit every taste and dietary preference. From the classic pepperoni to a show-stopping four-cheese version, your snack game is about to level up in a serious way.

The best part ? These are surprisingly easy to make, and once you try them fresh from the oven, golden and bubbling, there is simply no going back. Let us get rolling.

Ingredients for the Best Homemade Pizza Rolls

These quantities make approximately 24 rolls. Feel free to double the batch because they disappear fast.

For the Pizza Dough :

3 cups all-purpose flour (sub: bread flour for extra chew)
1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant dry yeast
1 tsp granulated sugar
1 tsp fine sea salt
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)

For the Classic Pepperoni Filling :

½ cup pizza sauce (sub: marinara, pesto, or white garlic sauce)
1½ cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella (sub: provolone or Monterey Jack)
½ cup mini pepperoni (sub: turkey pepperoni or diced mushrooms for vegetarian)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Garlic Butter Finish :

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Pro Tip : Low-moisture mozzarella is non-negotiable here. Fresh mozzarella contains too much water and will make your rolls soggy. Always go shredded and low-moisture for the best melt and texture.

Timing Overview

Dough Preparation	10 minutes (active work)
Dough Rise Time	1 hour (hands-off, ideal for multitasking)
Filling Preparation	10 minutes
Rolling & Slicing	10 minutes
Baking Time	18–22 minutes
Total Time	Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes

The average homemade roll recipe takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. This streamlined method is roughly 20% faster, thanks to instant yeast and an efficient preparation workflow. If using store-bought pizza dough, the total time can drop to just 40 minutes from start to finish.

7 Best Homemade Pizza Rolls Recipes: Step-by-Step Instructions

Recipe 1 : Classic Pepperoni Homemade Pizza Rolls

This is the original. The gold standard. The one that started it all.

Activate your yeast by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes foamy. This confirms your yeast is alive and active.
Build your dough by adding olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture, then gradually incorporate flour one cup at a time. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let the dough rise by placing it in a lightly oiled bowl, covering with plastic wrap, and setting it somewhere warm for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 12×9-inch rectangle, roughly a quarter inch thick.
Spread the sauce thinly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all edges. Sprinkle the cheese mixture and pepperoni evenly over the sauce.
Roll tightly from the long edge, pinching the seam firmly to seal. Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes for cleaner cuts.
Slice into 1½-inch rounds and place cut-side down on prepared pans. Brush generously with egg wash.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until deeply golden. Immediately brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with Parmesan. Wait 5 minutes before serving, as the filling will be very hot.

Recipe 2 : Four-Cheese Homemade Pizza Rolls

For the cheese lover who believes one type of cheese is never enough. Combine equal parts shredded mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and Asiago as your filling. Use a white garlic sauce base instead of tomato for an elevated, creamy profile. Follow the same dough and baking steps as Recipe 1. The result is a gooey, indulgent cheesy pizza rolls appetizer that disappears within minutes at any gathering.

Recipe 3 : BBQ Chicken Homemade Pizza Rolls

Swap the marinara for your favorite smoky BBQ sauce. Use shredded rotisserie chicken (about ¾ cup), mozzarella, a small amount of red onion, and a few pickled jalapenos if you like heat. The sweet-savory BBQ flavor pairs beautifully with the buttery dough. This is a crowd-pleaser that works as both a quick pizza rolls snack idea and a satisfying appetizer.

Recipe 4 : Spinach and Ricotta Homemade Pizza Rolls

A wonderful vegetarian option that feels indulgent without the meat. Saute one cup of fresh spinach in a little olive oil with two minced garlic cloves until wilted. Let it cool, then mix with ½ cup whole-milk ricotta and ½ cup mozzarella. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Spread onto the dough and roll as usual. These are elegant enough to serve as appetizers at dinner parties.

Recipe 5 : Buffalo Chicken Homemade Pizza Rolls

Toss ¾ cup of shredded cooked chicken in two tablespoons of your favorite buffalo sauce. Mix with mozzarella and a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra creaminess. Use plain pizza sauce or skip it entirely and just use the buffalo-coated chicken. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce. This is a seriously addictive easy homemade pizza rolls recipe for spice lovers.

Recipe 6 : Breakfast Pizza Rolls

Yes, pizza rolls are absolutely a breakfast food. Scramble two eggs lightly in butter and season with salt and pepper. Let them cool slightly, then combine with crumbled cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and a small amount of diced bell pepper. Spread onto the dough and roll up. These bake at the same temperature and make an incredible weekend morning treat that the whole family will love.

Recipe 7 : Margherita Homemade Pizza Rolls

Simple, classic, and absolutely beautiful. Use San Marzano tomato sauce as your base, then layer with fresh basil leaves, sliced fresh mozzarella (pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture), and a drizzle of olive oil. The key here is not to overstuff. The simple, clean flavors of the best homemade pizza rolls dough paired with fresh ingredients shine brightest when you keep it minimal.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll, Classic Pepperoni Recipe)

Calories	118 kcal
Total Fat	5.2g (Saturated Fat: 2.1g)
Total Carbohydrates	13.4g (Dietary Fiber: 0.6g \| Sugars: 0.8g)
Protein	5.6g
Sodium	248mg
Calcium	92mg

Approximate values based on standard ingredients. Individual results will vary depending on brands and exact quantities used.

For comparison, a serving of 6 store-bought frozen pizza rolls contains approximately 220 calories, 7g of fat, and 750mg of sodium. The homemade version delivers significantly less sodium per roll while using real, whole-food ingredients throughout.

Healthier Alternatives for Homemade Pizza Rolls

Small swaps can make a big difference in nutritional value without sacrificing the flavors you love.

Swap the dough : Use whole wheat flour in place of half the all-purpose flour for added fiber and a nuttier taste.
Go dairy-light : Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce saturated fat without affecting the melt quality.
Lean protein : Replace regular pepperoni with turkey pepperoni or plant-based sausage crumbles.
Gluten-free option : Use a quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture will be slightly denser but still delicious.
Vegan version : Use a vegan dough (replace egg wash with plant-based milk), vegan mozzarella, and load up on roasted vegetables for the filling.
Air fryer option : Air frying at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes uses no added oil and produces an incredibly crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Dipping Station	Set out warm marinara, ranch dressing, garlic butter, and honey with red pepper flakes so guests can choose their favorite dipping sauce.
Party Platter	Arrange two or three different varieties on a wooden board with fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, and olives for a visually stunning appetizer spread.
Kids Lunchbox	Pack four to five rolls in an insulated container with a small cup of warm marinara. They stay warm for up to two hours, making them ideal for school lunches.
Game Day Spread	Pair with other finger foods like loaded nachos, chicken wings, and jalapeño poppers for the ultimate snack table.
Soup Companion	Serve alongside a bowl of tomato bisque or minestrone for a comforting, well-balanced meal that feels complete and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced home cooks can run into a few stumbling blocks with pizza rolls. Here is what to watch out for:

Overfilling the Dough	The number one cause of leaking and blowouts in the oven. Use a thin, even layer of filling and always leave a clean border around the edges.
Skipping the Chill Step	Chilling the rolled log in the freezer for 10 minutes before slicing makes a dramatic difference in clean, even cuts.
Using Fresh Mozzarella	Fresh mozzarella releases too much moisture during baking. Always use shredded, low-moisture mozzarella for best results.
Letting the Dough Rise in a Cold Spot	Yeast is temperature-sensitive. Let the dough rise in a warm environment, such as an oven with the light on or a countertop near the stove.
Crowding the Baking Pan	Rolls need space to crisp properly. Crowded rolls steam instead of roast, resulting in a soft, pale texture.
Skipping the Egg Wash	The golden, glossy crust depends on an egg wash. It enhances both color and creates that satisfying crispy finish.

Storing Tips for Homemade Pizza Rolls

Refrigerator Storage	Once cooled to room temperature, place leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it makes the dough soft and chewy.
Freezer Storage (Unbaked)	After slicing, arrange raw rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (1–2 hours). Transfer to a zip-lock freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 400°F for 25–28 minutes—no thawing required.
Freezer Storage (Baked)	Fully baked rolls can also be frozen. Cool completely, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in an air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 12–15 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tip	Prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, covered, instead of doing the room-temperature rise. Cold-fermented dough develops deeper flavor. Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling.

The Bottom Line on Homemade Pizza Rolls

When all is said and done, Homemade Pizza Rolls are one of those recipes that permanently earn a spot in your regular rotation. They are endlessly customizable, genuinely fun to make, freezer-friendly, and hands-down more delicious than anything you will ever pull from a frozen bag. From the classic pepperoni to the elegant Margherita and the indulgent four-cheese version, there is a roll here for every mood, occasion, and craving.

The process is simple once you get into the rhythm, and the results are extraordinary every single time. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this is one recipe that will make you feel like an absolute kitchen rockstar.

Now it is your turn! Pick one of these 7 recipes, roll up your sleeves, and get baking. When you do, share a photo in the comments below or tag us on social media. We love seeing your beautiful creations! And if you enjoyed this post, explore our other snack recipes for more crowd-pleasing inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought dough for homemade pizza rolls ?

Absolutely, and it is a great time-saver. Pre-made pizza dough from the grocery store works beautifully. Simply roll it out to the same thickness, add your filling, and follow the baking instructions. Your total time drops to around 40 minutes.

Why are my pizza rolls leaking ?

Leaking happens for two main reasons: overfilling and poor sealing. Make sure to leave a 1-inch border around the edges when spreading your filling, and press the seam firmly before slicing. Brushing the seam with a tiny amount of egg wash before rolling helps it seal even more securely.

Can I make homemade pizza rolls in an air fryer ?

Yes, and the results are phenomenal. Air fry at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. From frozen, add 4 to 5 extra minutes. The air fryer produces an extremely crispy exterior with virtually no added oil.

How do I keep my pizza rolls crispy ?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and always reheat in the oven or air fryer, never the microwave. A quick blast at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes brings back the crunch completely.

What is the best cheese for pizza rolls ?

Low-moisture shredded mozzarella is the gold standard for its melt quality and low water content. For extra flavor, blend it with provolone, Asiago, or a small amount of sharp cheddar. Avoid fresh mozzarella as it releases too much moisture during baking.

Can I make these gluten-free or vegan ?

Yes to both! Use a quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the dough and expect a slightly denser result. For a vegan version, swap the egg wash for plant-based milk, use vegan mozzarella, and fill with roasted vegetables, plant-based meats, or dairy-free ricotta.