Oh wow, these Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are seriously addictive. Crispy on the outside and packed with melty cheese and pepperoni on the inside. I’m telling you, they’re like little pizza pockets of joy!
If you’re craving pizza but want a quick snack or appetizer, these rolls are a game changer. The air fryer makes them perfectly golden without all the grease of deep frying. Plus, they’re super fast to make when hunger strikes!
I’m so excited for you to try this easy recipe. It’s one of my go-to snacks now, and I bet it’ll be yours too. Ready to make some?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: Ready in just about 30 minutes, these pizza rolls are perfect when you want something fast but satisfying.
- Perfectly Crispy: The air fryer gives the dough a golden crisp outside while keeping the cheese melted inside.
- Kid-Friendly: A great finger food that kids love to eat at lunch or snack time.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite pizza toppings or extra cheese to suit your taste.
- No Deep Frying Needed: Enjoy all the flavor with less oil and less mess.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Prep Time & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: About 27 minutes
Servings:
This recipe makes about 12 pizza rolls, perfect for 4 people as a snack or small meal.
Difficulty:
Simple enough for beginners, but enjoyable for cooks of any level.
Required Kitchen Tools
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Baking sheet or tray (for assembling)
- Pastry brush (for brushing oil)
- Knife or pizza cutter
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these cheesy, pepperoni-filled pizza rolls (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):
- Refrigerated pizza dough: The base for your rolls; soft and easy to work with.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that classic, gooey pizza cheese pull.
- Pepperoni slices: The savory, slightly spicy meat that pairs perfectly with cheese.
- Pizza sauce: For dipping or spreading inside the rolls for extra flavor.
- Olive oil: To brush on the outside for a golden, crispy finish.
- Italian seasoning (optional): Adds an herby kick to the dough.
- Garlic powder (optional): For subtle savory depth.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a bit of heat.
Variations for Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
- Add Veggies: Include chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives inside the rolls for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Different Cheese: Try mozzarella blended with cheddar or provolone for a richer cheese pull.
- Make It Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper inside for some heat.
- Swap the Meat: Use cooked sausage, ham, or even pepperoni alternatives for different tastes.
- Make It Vegan: Use vegan pizza dough, dairy-free cheese, and plant-based pepperoni substitutes.
How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls — Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Take your refrigerated pizza dough out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out.
2. Roll Out the Dough
On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 12 by 8 inches. Try to keep it an even thickness for uniform cooking.
3. Add the Filling
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Arrange pepperoni slices over the cheese. If using any additional toppings or seasonings, add them now.
4. Roll It Up
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, sealing the edge by pinching the dough.
5. Slice Into Rolls
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls — Continued
6. Prepare for Air Frying
Lightly brush each pizza roll with olive oil to help them crisp up nicely. If you like, sprinkle a little Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes on top for extra flavor.
7. Arrange in Air Fryer
Place the pizza rolls in a single layer inside the air fryer basket or tray, leaving some space between each so hot air can circulate well. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to cook them in batches.
8. Cook the Rolls
Air fry the pizza rolls at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Check around 8 minutes to see if they are golden brown and crispy. Cook longer if needed, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
9. Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the pizza rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. They will be very hot inside! Serve with extra pizza sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
These pizza rolls are great for snacks, parties, or a casual meal. Serve them alongside:
- A fresh green salad
- Vegetable sticks with ranch or blue cheese dip
- Marinara or garlic dipping sauce
- A cold soda or your favorite beverage
They also make a fun lunchbox treat or easy after-school snack.
Storing Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness, or microwave for about 30 seconds if you’re in a hurry.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Don’t overfill: Too much cheese or sauce can cause the rolls to leak during cooking. Keep the filling balanced.
- Seal edges well: Pinch the dough edges tightly to avoid filling spilling out in the air fryer.
- Room temperature dough: Letting the dough warm slightly before rolling helps prevent tearing.
- Use a sharp knife: This makes cleaner cuts and keeps the rolls intact.
- Check air fryer size: Arrange rolls with space between for even cooking; cook in batches if needed.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per roll)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Course: Breakfasts15
minutes12
minutes150
kcalIngredients
1 package refrigerated pizza dough
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
20-24 pepperoni slices
1/4 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Let pizza dough sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
- Roll dough into a 12×8 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and arrange pepperoni slices on top.
- Roll dough tightly from long edge, seal edges by pinching.
- Slice roll into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
- Brush rolls with olive oil and sprinkle optional seasonings.
- Place rolls in air fryer basket in a single layer with space between.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Let cool slightly and serve with extra pizza sauce.
Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls FAQs
Q: Can I freeze these pizza rolls?
A: Yes, freeze the rolls after slicing but before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air fryer time.
Q: Can I bake these in the oven instead?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: You can bake as above or pan-fry them in a skillet with a little oil for a crisp outside.
Q: How do I make them vegetarian?
A: Simply omit the pepperoni or replace it with vegetables like sliced mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are a quick and delicious snack that brings the taste of pizza into a handheld roll. Perfect for busy days, parties, or anytime you want a cheesy, satisfying treat with minimal fuss. The air fryer gives them a wonderful crispiness without deep frying, making them a great choice for healthier indulgence.