If you’ve ever dreamt of combining the irresistible flakiness of puff pastry with the classic flavors of pizza, then this Flaky Pepperoni Pizza Rolls with Mozzarella & Herbs Recipe is going to be your new favorite. These golden, crispy rolls are packed with gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a hint of herbs, wrapped in delicate layers that flake and melt in your mouth. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or party favorite, these rolls bring together familiar comforts with a delightful twist that’s sure to impress and satisfy every pizza lover.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple the ingredients are, yet how each one plays an essential role. From the flaky puff pastry providing irresistible texture, to the melty mozzarella adding creamy bite and the pepperoni bringing that classic savory punch—every element is chosen to create a perfect harmony of flavor and mouthfeel.
- Puff pastry sheet: Using a thawed puff pastry sheet gives you that beautiful flaky base without any fuss.
- Pizza sauce or marinara (½ cup): Adds tangy tomato depth and moisture that bring all the flavors together.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Provides the gooey stretch and creamy delight that makes pizza so irresistible.
- Sliced pepperoni (½ cup): Mini or regular slices work great here and offer a wonderful spicy, smoky flavor.
- Italian seasoning or dried oregano (1 tsp): Introduces fragrant herbs for that authentic pizzeria aroma.
- Egg (for egg wash): Helps achieve a beautiful, shiny, golden-brown crust.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but adds a welcome spicy kick if you like heat.
- Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle on top for extra umami and slight saltiness that elevates the entire roll.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Adds bright, fresh herbal notes and a pretty finishing touch.
How to Make Flaky Pepperoni Pizza Rolls with Mozzarella & Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it is nice and hot when the rolls go in. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup. This simple initial step sets the stage for perfectly baked rolls with a crisp base every time.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll your puff pastry into a 10 by 12-inch rectangle. This not only ensures your pastry is evenly stretched but gives you the right shape to layer your pizza toppings evenly. Be gentle so the pastry doesn’t tear.
Step 3: Spread the Pizza Sauce
Spread your pizza sauce evenly across the puff pastry, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. This border helps keep all your delicious fillings inside once rolled up, plus it allows the pastry to puff nicely without leaking sauce.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella, Pepperoni, and Herbs
Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, followed by the sliced pepperoni. Finally, scatter the Italian seasoning or dried oregano over the top. These layers build up the classic pizza flavor we all crave wrapped inside flaky goodness.
Step 5: Roll, Slice, and Prepare for Baking
Carefully roll the puff pastry from one long side to the other, making a tight log. Then slice this log into 10 to 12 equal rolls. Place each cut side down on your lined baking sheet, giving each roll space so the pastry can expand and crisp beautifully.
Step 6: Brush Egg Wash and Add Final Touches
Brush each roll with a beaten egg wash to help achieve that alluring golden shine. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and, if you like a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes. These touches add flavor complexity and an inviting appearance that’s hard to resist.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Flaky
Bake your rolls in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes or until they are puffed, golden, and irresistibly flaky. The aroma at this stage will already have your mouth watering, signaling the perfect moment to pull them out!
How to Serve Flaky Pepperoni Pizza Rolls with Mozzarella & Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top right after baking add a bright contrast to the warm, cheesy center. A light dusting of extra Parmesan not only enhances the flavor but invites everyone to dig right in.
Side Dishes
Serve these pizza rolls alongside a crisp garden salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness. A small bowl of marinara for dipping is always a welcome companion that amplifies their pizza vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing appetizer platter, arrange the rolls in a circular pattern with dipping sauces in the center. You can also skewer smaller rolls for fun pizza roll “lollipops” at parties — just perfect for easy grab-and-go treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating will bring back their flakiness and gooey cheese, especially if done in the oven or toaster oven instead of the microwave.
Freezing
These rolls freeze beautifully! Place unbaked sliced rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they cook through perfectly.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover or frozen Flaky Pepperoni Pizza Rolls with Mozzarella & Herbs Recipe is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy and the cheese perfectly melty, avoiding that dreaded soggy microwave texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza sauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza sauce can add an extra fresh and personalized touch. Just ensure it’s not too watery, or it might make the pastry soggy.
What type of puff pastry works best?
Store-bought frozen puff pastry sheets are just fine when thawed properly. Look for high-quality brands for the best rise and flake, but any standard puff pastry sheet will work well.
Can I make these rolls vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the pepperoni and add extra veggies like sliced mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers combined with mozzarella and herbs for a delicious vegetarian option.
Is Italian seasoning necessary?
While it adds a lovely depth of flavor, you could substitute it with fresh herbs or just dried oregano if that’s what you have on hand. The key is layering that herby essence to complement the tomato and cheese.
How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?
Leaving a border around the sauce and rolling gently without over-saturating the pastry helps avoid sogginess. Also, using a good egg wash and baking at the right temperature ensures a crisp, flaky exterior.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Flaky Pepperoni Pizza Rolls with Mozzarella & Herbs Recipe enough for anyone who loves pizza with a fun, flaky twist. They are quick to whip up, full of bold flavors, and charmingly portable. Next time you want to impress friends or treat yourself with minimal effort but maximum deliciousness, give these rolls a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Flaky Pepperoni Pizza Rolls with Mozzarella & Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 rolls
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Flaky Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are a delightful snack or appetizer featuring golden puff pastry filled with savory pizza sauce, melted mozzarella, pepperoni slices, and fragrant Italian herbs. Perfect for parties or a tasty treat, they bake up crispy on the outside with a gooey, flavorful center.
Ingredients
Pastry and Sauce
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara
Filling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (mini or regular)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
Toppings and Finishing
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, to sprinkle
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the puff pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a 10×12 inch rectangle to create an even base for rolling.
- Spread pizza sauce: Evenly spread the pizza sauce over the pastry, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges to prevent spillage when rolling.
- Add fillings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, evenly distribute the sliced pepperoni, and then sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the top for a burst of flavor.
- Roll and seal: Carefully roll the pastry sheet from one long edge to the other, forming a tight log. Use a little water to seal the edge securely.
- Slice the rolls: Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 10–12 equal slices and place them cut side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply egg wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the rolls to help them achieve a golden brown and glossy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, crushed red pepper flakes, and chopped fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color. Serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Customize the fillings by adding mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers if desired.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for crispiness.
- Use egg wash to achieve a shiny, golden crust; you can substitute with milk or cream if preferred.
