Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s crispy on the outside, cheesy and savory on the inside, and ridiculously easy to make, then this Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls Recipe is about to become your new go-to treat. Perfect for game days, quick lunches, or when you want that comforting pizza flavor in a handheld roll, these pepperoni rolls bring joy with every bite. The air fryer makes the process faster and cleaner while giving you that perfect golden crust you love. Trust me, once you try this Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls Recipe lies in a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create something unforgettable. Each item adds its unique touch to the taste, texture, and appeal of the rolls.

• Refrigerated pizza dough: The base of your rolls, easy to work with and delivers a soft but crispy texture once air fried.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds melty, gooey richness that binds the flavors together.
• Pepperoni slices: The star of the show, giving that spicy, savory zing with every bite.
• Olive oil: Used for brushing, it helps create a golden, crispy outer layer.
• Garlic powder (optional): Adds an aromatic depth to the rolls for those who love a little extra flavor.
• Dried oregano (optional): A classic Italian herb that complements the pepperoni and cheese beautifully.
• Marinara or pizza sauce (optional): For dipping, making every bite a saucy delight.

How to Make Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the dough

Start by rolling out your pizza dough on a clean, flat surface. Use a rolling pin to flatten it into a rectangle or a large square about ¼-inch thick. This shape makes it easier to roll up evenly, ensuring every bite is balanced with that perfect combination of dough, cheese, and pepperoni.

Step 2: Assemble the rolls

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, but don’t go all the way to the edges—leave a small border so the cheese won’t spill out when you roll it. This step is crucial for keeping your rolls neat and packed full of cheesy goodness.

Step 3: Add the pepperoni slices

Layer the pepperoni slices evenly on top of the cheese. The key is to spread them in a single layer so each roll end up with a generous amount of that iconic pepperoni flavor, guaranteeing every bite is satisfying.

Step 4: Sprinkle optional seasonings

This is your chance to add some extra oomph! Lightly dust your garlic powder and dried oregano over the filling to give your rolls an aromatic, savory kick that will elevate this simple snack to restaurant-quality levels.

Step 5: Roll up the dough

Beginning at one edge, start rolling the dough tightly into a log or cylinder shape. A snug roll locks in all those wonderful flavors and makes slicing the rolls easier and cleaner.

Step 6: Slice the rolls

Cut your dough log into 1-inch thick pieces to create individual pepperoni rolls. This size is perfect for bite-sized treats that are easy to grab and enjoy.

Step 7: Preheat the air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures your pepperoni rolls will cook evenly and get that irresistible crispy crust.

Step 8: Prepare the air fryer basket

Brush a little olive oil onto the air fryer basket or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step helps maintain the rolls’ golden color and makes cleanup easier.

Step 9: Arrange the pepperoni rolls

Place the slices into the air fryer basket, spacing them so they are not touching; this allows hot air to circulate freely and crisps each roll beautifully. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Step 10: Air fry the rolls

Cook the rolls at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and feel crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overcooking.

Step 11: Serve and enjoy

Once cooked, carefully remove the pepperoni rolls from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with your favorite marinara or pizza sauce for dipping—it’s the perfect finish to this scrumptious snack.

How to Serve Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rolls. You can also dust a little grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy touch that melts onto those warm rolls beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair these pepperoni rolls with a crisp green salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or even some roasted veggies for a balanced meal that satisfies your craving without weighing you down.

Creative Ways to Present

Place the pepperoni rolls on a wooden platter surrounded by small bowls of different dipping sauces like ranch, spicy marinara, or garlic butter. This turns the snack into a fun interactive experience that guests will love mixing and matching.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a quick snack or lunch option the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked pepperoni rolls by slicing and placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftover pepperoni rolls in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes to refresh the crispiness and warm up all the cheesy, pepperoni goodness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crunch.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade dough works perfectly and lets you customize flavors. Just make sure to roll it out to the correct thickness so the rolls cook evenly in the air fryer.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for these rolls?

Preheating helps cook the rolls more evenly and achieve that perfect golden crust. It’s worth the few extra minutes.

Can I add other fillings besides pepperoni?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with sausage, ham, veggies, or different cheeses. The air fryer handles them all beautifully, just watch for moisture levels that might affect the dough.

Is it necessary to use garlic powder and oregano?

These spices are optional but highly recommended for adding extra flavor depth. If you prefer a simpler roll, you can skip them without sacrificing deliciousness.

What is the best dipping sauce for pepperoni rolls?

Traditional marinara or pizza sauce is a classic pairing, but ranch or spicy sriracha mayo can also add exciting flavor twists. Choose whatever makes your taste buds happiest!

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves quick, flavorful snacks that feel a little indulgent but come together effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these rolls hit all the right notes—crispy, cheesy, delicious. Go ahead and make a batch today; I promise they’ll disappear fast!

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