Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls with Marinara Dipping Recipe

If you’re craving a gooey, savory snack that feels like a warm hug, you have to try this Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls with Marinara Dipping Recipe. I absolutely love how the combination of melty mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and that crispy golden crust comes together with a rich butter glaze and an irresistible marinara sauce for dipping. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, entertaining friends, or just indulging yourself, this recipe is straightforward, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious. Keep reading—I’m sharing all my tips and tricks so you nail these pepperoni rolls every single time!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls with Marinara Dipping Recipe are pretty straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in building those beautiful flavors and textures. I always recommend picking a good quality pizza dough and fresh shredded mozzarella for the best melt.

• Pizza dough: I prefer using canned dough for convenience, but fresh dough works beautifully too.
• Unsalted butter: Melting this with seasonings gives the crust a buttery, irresistible sheen.
• Italian seasoning: Adds that hint of herbaceous warmth—don’t skip it!
• Garlic powder: Garlic and cheese are a match made in heaven here.
• Pepperoni slices: Classic, slightly spicy, and super satisfying.
• Mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded melts so much better than pre-shredded store-bought.
• Egg: Brushed on for a shiny, golden-brown finish.
• Parmesan cheese: A salty sprinkle on top brings a nice flavor punch.
• Marinara sauce: The perfect companion for dipping—warm and robustly flavored.

Variations

I love that this Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls with Marinara Dipping Recipe is super customizable—much like a blank canvas. Let me share a few ways I’ve put my own spin on it, and you can make it your own too!

• Stuff it with extra cheese: Once, I added a mix of mozzarella and provolone for an even cheesier, gooier inside—and my family devoured them.
• Add veggies: Spinach or finely diced bell peppers sneak in some color and nutrients without overpowering the rolls.
• Swap pepperoni for other meats: Ham or cooked sausage make fun alternatives if you’re in the mood for something different.
• Go plant-based: Use your favorite vegan cheese and plant-based pepperoni for a compassionate twist that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls with Marinara Dipping Recipe

Step 1: Roll Out the Dough Just Right

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready while you work on the dough. I take the pizza dough straight out of the can and roll it out on parchment paper to a nice 10×15 inch rectangle. Using parchment makes the transfer to the baking sheet a breeze and means less mess. Aim for an even thickness—too thin and it might tear when rolling; too thick and it won’t cook through evenly.

Step 2: Butter Up and Season

Mix the melted butter with Italian seasoning and garlic powder—that combo brings so much aroma and flavor. Brush half of this buttery mixture evenly over the dough; this helps the dough brown beautifully and adds that punch of savory goodness. Don’t skip reserving the rest for later!

Step 3: Layer on the Pepperoni and Cheese

Place your pepperoni slices in an even layer over the dough, slightly overlapping so each bite is packed with that pepperoni goodness. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top. I always use freshly shredded mozzarella here, and it makes such a difference in melt and texture.

Step 4: Roll It Up Tightly Like a Pro

Starting from the long side, carefully but tightly roll the dough into a log with the seam side down to keep it sealed while baking. Transferring the dough on the parchment means you can just slide it onto a baking sheet without losing the shape. This step is key to keeping all the cheese and pepperoni inside as it bakes.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake in Two Stages

Whisk the egg and brush it all over the top and sides of the log. This egg wash will create a gorgeous golden crust. Bake the roll for about 15-20 minutes, then brush the remaining butter and seasoning mixture on top (I sometimes reheat the butter briefly to keep it liquid). Return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until it’s doubled down on golden, crispy, and bubbly.

Step 6: Finish and Slice

Once out of the oven, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top while it’s still warm for a burst of salty tang. Let the roll cool for about 10 minutes—it makes slicing easier and safer. Slice it into roughly 1-inch thick rounds and get ready to dip!

How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls with Marinara Dipping Recipe

Garnishes

I typically sprinkle a little extra grated parmesan and chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes is great if you want to turn up the heat a notch.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides with these rolls are a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. Garlic knots or even a bowl of soup—a creamy tomato basil is divine—make the whole meal feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like arranging the sliced rolls on a large platter surrounded by small dipping bowls of marinara, garlic butter, and even some ranch dressing for variety. Wrapping each slice in a cute mini sandwich bag with a to-go fork makes them perfect for game day or grab-and-go snacking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover pepperoni rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, I like placing a paper towel underneath the slices to absorb any excess moisture.

Freezing

Believe it or not, these freeze really well! After fully baking and cooling, wrap the whole roll tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When I’m ready, I thaw overnight in the fridge and then just reheat in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked crispiness.

Reheating

Microwaving can make these a bit chewy, so I recommend reheating in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy and the cheese melty just like fresh. You can also warm the marinara alongside for that perfect dipping experience.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t tell you how many times this Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls with Marinara Dipping Recipe has saved the day for me—whether it’s a last-minute snack, an easy dinner, or something to impress guests without fuss. It’s one of those recipes that’s both comforting and fun to make, plus it brings everyone together around the table. I really hope you try it out and love it as much as my family and I do. Go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every melty, pepperoni-loaded bite—you deserve it!

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