Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Craving a snack that’s both cheesy and savory with a crispy edge? These Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are the perfect solution! Packed with melty mozzarella cheese, flavorful pepperoni, and seasoned to perfection, these pizza rolls are an irresistible treat that’s quick to make and perfect for a party, game day, or as an after-school snack. The air fryer makes them golden and crispy in just minutes, without the need for a deep fryer. With each bite, you’ll get a delicious combination of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and a crunchy, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of refrigerated pizza dough (usually 13.8 oz)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (cut into halves or quarters)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a clean, flat surface. Cut the dough into small squares (about 2-3 inches per side) to create individual pizza rolls.
- Assemble the Rolls: On each square of dough, place a few pepperoni slices and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Roll and Seal: Roll each square tightly to form a small log. Pinch the edges to seal the roll tightly, ensuring that none of the filling escapes during cooking.
- Air Fry the Rolls: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the pizza rolls in a single layer in the basket, making sure they’re not touching to allow air circulation.
- Sprinkle and Season: Spray the pizza rolls with a little more cooking spray. Sprinkle each roll with grated parmesan cheese and a pinch of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Cook the Rolls: Air fry the rolls at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Depending on your air fryer, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Serve: Once done, remove the rolls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: 18-20 minutes
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Storage: Store leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Freezing: To freeze, lay the cooled pizza rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1-2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the pizza rolls back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes until they are hot and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a conventional oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara? Yes, you can use pizza sauce, but marinara sauce adds a slightly more complex flavor.
- Can I make these with gluten-free dough? Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pizza dough for a gluten-free version of these pizza rolls.
- Can I use a different cheese? Yes, you can use any cheese you like—cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can bake these rolls in a conventional oven at 375°F for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Can I add vegetables to the filling? Yes, feel free to add sliced olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- How do I prevent the pizza rolls from sticking? Make sure to spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and don’t overcrowd the rolls. If necessary, you can use parchment paper for air fryers.
- How do I cut the pepperoni? Cut the pepperoni slices into halves or quarters so they fit nicely in the pizza roll without sticking out.
- Can I freeze these before cooking? Yes, you can freeze them after assembling. Just air fry them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Can I use other types of meat for the filling? Yes, try using sausage, ham, or bacon instead of pepperoni for a different twist.
- Can I use homemade pizza dough? Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought for a more personalized touch.
- How do I know when the pizza rolls are done? The pizza rolls are done when they are golden brown on the outside and crispy to the touch.
- Can I make these pizza rolls vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the pepperoni and add extra vegetables or keep them cheesy for a vegetarian option.
- How can I make these spicier? Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni for an extra kick.
- Can I use a different type of dough? Yes, biscuit dough or croissant dough can also be used for a flakier result.
- Can I make these pizza rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble them in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before air frying.
- What should I do if the cheese leaks out while cooking? Make sure the rolls are tightly sealed, and try placing the seam side down in the air fryer basket to prevent leaking.
- What’s the best way to serve these pizza rolls? Serve with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even garlic butter for dipping.
- Can I add extra toppings to the pizza rolls? Yes, feel free to top with fresh basil, olives, or any other pizza topping you enjoy.
- How do I make these rolls extra crispy? Spray the pizza rolls lightly with cooking spray before and after cooking to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Can I cook these in batches? Yes, you may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer, but ensure that they are in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
20 Best Tips to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls:
- Don’t overfill the rolls to ensure they seal properly and don’t burst open while cooking.
- Seal the dough tightly to prevent cheese from leaking out during cooking.
- Use a preheated air fryer for an even and consistent cook.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for the crispiest result.
- Brush with a little olive oil before cooking for an extra golden finish.
- Experiment with cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or provolone for different flavors.
- Use fresh, high-quality pepperoni for the best flavor.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor in the crust.
- Use parchment paper for easier cleanup if desired.
- Cut dough into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle a little salt on top for a more flavorful crust.
- Keep the rolls bite-sized for easy dipping and serving.
- Top with fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a burst of freshness after cooking.
- Serve immediately after air frying for the best crispy texture.
- Use an egg wash before baking if you want an extra golden shine on the rolls.
- Add a layer of mozzarella cheese on top of each roll before air frying for an extra cheesy finish.
- Use small-sized pepperoni for a more uniform look and easier eating.
- Try making mini pizza rolls by cutting the dough into even smaller squares for a fun snack.
- Serve with a side of ranch or garlic dipping sauce for an added creamy contrast.
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Serving Tips and Variations:
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: These pizza rolls pair perfectly with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter. You can even offer a variety of sauces for guests to choose from.
- Make It a Meal: Turn these pizza rolls into a full meal by pairing them with a fresh salad or a side of garlic bread.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the pepperoni and fill the rolls with a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, along with extra cheese.
- Sweet Twist: For a dessert version, try adding Nutella and marshmallows to the dough before rolling it up for sweet pizza rolls!
Enjoy these Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls as a savory snack, appetizer, or even as part of a fun pizza night with friends and family!
