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These Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are the perfect quick snack when you want something crispy, cheesy, and satisfying without a lot of effort. Using store-bought pizza dough, they come together fast and get perfectly golden in the air fryer. The combination of pepperoni and melted mozzarella inside irresistible little pockets makes them an instant favorite with both kids and adults.
I remember the first time I made these during a busy weeknight and how everyone kept grabbing more. They are always a crowd-pleaser and have become my go-to snack when I want pizza flavors fast without the hassle.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated pizza dough: using pre-made dough saves time and rolls out easily let it come to room temperature for better handling
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts perfectly inside for that classic pizza gooeyness
- Pepperoni slices: bring savory and slightly spicy flavor choose your favorite brand for best taste
- Pizza sauce: for dipping to add a rich tomato flavor to complement the rolls
- Olive oil: brushed on top for a golden crispy crust use good quality extra virgin olive oil if possible
- Italian seasoning: gives a nice herby background flavor dried herb blends work best
- Garlic powder: adds a subtle garlicky kick without overpowering
- Red pepper flakes: optional for those who like a spicy touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the rolls. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Lightly flour your working surface and roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle about a quarter inch thick. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice the dough into roughly 3 by 3 inch squares.
- Add the Fillings:
- Place one slice of pepperoni and a small pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough square. Be careful not to overfill, as that can cause leaks.
- Seal the Pizza Rolls:
- Fold the dough over the filling neatly and pinch the edges firmly to seal. For extra security and a decorative touch, use a fork to crimp the edges well.
- Brush with Olive Oil:
- Using a small brush, coat the tops of each pizza roll with olive oil. If you want more flavor, sprinkle Italian seasoning lightly over the top.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket:
- Spray the basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the rolls in a single layer with enough space between them so air can circulate and cook evenly.
- Cook Until Crispy:
- Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to crisp both sides evenly. You want a golden brown color and crispy crust outside.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the rolls cool for a minute or two before serving. Offer warm pizza sauce on the side for dipping and enjoy your homemade crispy cheesy bites.
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My absolute favorite part is that crispy golden crust. I remember my kids’ smiles when they bit into the warm cheesy center on a cold evening. It’s one of those recipes that bring comfort and joy with every bite.
Storage Tips
Store cooled pizza rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze uncooked rolls in a single layer until firm, then transfer to freezer bags to keep for up to two months. When ready to eat, air fry directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or parmesan for different cheese blends. You can replace pepperoni with cooked sausage, mushrooms, or vegetables like bell peppers for variety. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pizza dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like classic marinara, garlic butter, ranch, buffalo sauce, or pesto for extra flair. Pair the rolls with crispy air fryer fries, garlic parmesan breadsticks, or a fresh Caprese salad for a more complete meal.
Cultural Context
Pizza rolls are a fun twist on traditional pizza often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer across the US. Making them in an air fryer modernizes the classic deep-fried method, creating a healthier and faster way to enjoy these party favorites.
Pro Tips
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispy results cook in batches if needed
- Brush with olive oil or an egg wash before air frying for a golden shiny crust
- Experiment with your favorite toppings and seasonings inside the rolls to create unique flavors every time
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the rolls from bursting during cooking?
Be sure not to overfill each roll—use one pepperoni slice and a small pinch of cheese. Seal edges firmly by pinching and crimping with a fork to keep the filling inside.
- → Can I use homemade dough for these rolls?
Yes, homemade dough works well. Roll it out evenly to about ¼ inch thickness for a good balance between crust and filling.
- → What’s the best way to get extra crispy rolls?
Brush the rolls with olive oil before cooking and flip them halfway through the air frying process. Adding an egg wash can also create a golden shine.
- → Can these be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the pepperoni and fill the rolls with cheese and other veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
- → How should leftover rolls be stored and reheated?
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
- → Is preheating the air fryer necessary?
Yes, preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispy exterior.