Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Rolls

If you crave pizza but want it fast and fuss-free these air fryer pepperoni pizza rolls are pure comfort Gooey cheese and zesty pepperoni are wrapped in golden pizza dough and crisped to perfection in minutes They have quickly become my family's favorite after-school snack when hunger hits and no one wants to wait for delivery

I first tried these after a Friday night movie when we had leftover pizza toppings and a roll of dough in the fridge The kids devoured them so quickly they barely made it to the plate Now we make extra to stash in the freezer for busy nights

Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza dough: gives that fluffy golden finish and is super convenient so look for one that feels cold and firm in the package
• Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for those classic cheese pulls go for low-moisture whole milk mozzarella if possible
• Pepperoni slices: add that iconic pizza flavor and crisp up in the air fryer choose small slices or mini pepperoni for even filling
• Pizza sauce: brings the zing and keeps everything juicy a thick sauce works best to avoid soggy centers
• Olive oil: brushed on top for shiny blistered crust extra virgin has the best flavor
• Dried Italian herbs: sprinkle over rolls for a punch of flavor

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

Unroll the pizza dough gently onto a lightly floured surface and shape into a rectangle about one quarter inch thick try not to stretch too thin or your rolls will break while baking

Assemble the Filling:

Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough stopping half an inch from the edges this prevents leaks Add a generous blanket of shredded mozzarella then scatter pepperoni evenly

Roll and Seal:

Carefully roll up the dough jelly roll style starting at a longer edge for more swirls and press the seam firmly to seal Pinch each side tightly to keep cheese inside

Slice the Rolls:

With a sharp knife cut the roll into even slices about one inch thick Wipe the blade between cuts for cleaner edges and less sticking

Air Fry the Rolls:

Preheat air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for three minutes Arrange the rolls in the basket cut side up leaving space between each for air circulation Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian herbs

Cook Until Golden:

Air fry for seven to nine minutes or until tops are deep golden and cheese is bubbling If making a second batch check sooner as the fryer may run hotter

Cool and Serve:

Let rolls rest two minutes before serving so the cheese sets slightly This makes them easier to pick up and reduces molten cheese burns

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My favorite part is the way the crust gets crisp and flakey without loads of oil My little one always sneaks the last roll and giggles every time the cheese stretches in a perfect cheesy strand It has become a tradition to make a double batch during family game night

Storage Tips

Keep cooked pizza rolls refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days To reheat just pop them in the air fryer for three minutes They regain their crispness and the filling melts again beautifully If you want to freeze them arrange rolls on a tray in a single layer and freeze until firm then transfer to a freezer bag This way you can cook them straight from frozen adding one or two extra minutes to the air fry time

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use crescent roll dough or even biscuit dough for a slightly different flavor Turkey or plant based pepperoni work just as well for a lighter or vegetarian version If you run out of mozzarella try shredded cheddar provolone or Monterey Jack for melty goodness

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a bowl of warm marinara for dipping or offer ranch and garlic butter for a party platter These are great as a movie snack side for soup or a quick lunch packed in a thermos The rolls pair perfectly with a crisp green salad

Cultural Notes

Pizza rolls are a playful spin on classic Italian pizza traditions With the air fryer making it possible to cook small bites in minutes this snack has become a hit at American gatherings and game days It is the ultimate mix of Italian flavor and modern convenience

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer toss in fresh basil or diced tomatoes for a bright twist In fall add sauteed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for heartiness Winter calls for extra cheese and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for warmth

Success Stories

Friends tell me these were the first thing their picky eaters learned to help make Everyone loves to roll up their own and get creative with fillings From birthday parties to spontaneous after school hunger attacks these pizza rolls win every time

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let the rolled dough and filling chill in the freezer for one hour before slicing and air frying Then freeze par-baked rolls in a bag Warm them straight from frozen in a hot air fryer and they come out perfectly crispy with gooey centers

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Whether you make these for a quick lunch or family party the air fryer pepperoni pizza rolls are always gone in a flash Try a double batch and see who nabs the last cheesy piece

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh dough for these rolls?

Yes, you can use fresh pizza dough. Just roll it thinly for the best texture in the air fryer.

→ What cheese works best for stuffing?

Mozzarella is a classic choice for a gooey filling, but cheddar or provolone also work well.

→ Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating the air fryer for 2-3 minutes helps achieve an evenly crisped roll crust.

→ Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute pepperoni with sautéed vegetables or meatless pepperoni slices.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Leftovers stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze assembled rolls?

Yes, freeze uncooked rolls and air fry directly from frozen, adding a couple minutes to cooking time.