There’s something magical about bite-sized snacks that pack all the flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza. As someone who loves both cooking and quick, delicious meals, I can confidently say that these Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls are a game-changer. They’re crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and loaded with that irresistible pizza taste—all without the fuss of traditional baking.
I’ve experimented with plenty of pizza-inspired recipes, but this one stands out because it’s fast, easy, and perfect for parties, snacks, or even a fun weeknight dinner. The air fryer gives these rolls an unbeatable texture, making them golden and crispy while keeping the cheese perfectly melted. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them again and again!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Pizza dough: You can use store-bought or homemade pizza dough for convenience. If you’re short on time, pre-made dough from the refrigerated section works perfectly.
Pepperoni slices: These add that classic spicy, savory flavor. Opt for thin slices so they roll up easily, or chop them finely for even distribution.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The key to that irresistible stretchy, melty cheese pull. Freshly shredded works best, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltiness.
Marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade marinara for dipping. A high-quality sauce makes a big difference in flavor.
Garlic powder & Italian seasoning: These seasonings enhance the pizza flavor. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme works too.
Olive oil or cooking spray: Helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior when air frying.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 30-40 pepperoni slices
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Step 1: Prep the Dough
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×10 inches). If the dough is too elastic, let it rest for 5 minutes before rolling.
Step 2: Layer the Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange the pepperoni slices in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Step 3: Roll and Slice
Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch pieces.
Step 4: Season and Air Fry
Place the rolls in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Lightly spray or brush with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let them cool slightly before serving with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overfill – Too much cheese or pepperoni can cause leaks.
- Preheat the air fryer (if your model allows) for extra crispiness.
- Use parchment paper (cut to fit) for easier cleanup.
- Experiment with fillings – Try adding cooked sausage, veggies, or different cheeses.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden.
Can I freeze these pizza rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze before air frying, then cook from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes.
What’s the best way to prevent sticking?
Lightly grease the air fryer basket or use parchment paper with holes for airflow.
Can I use biscuit dough instead of pizza dough?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different—more biscuit-like than chewy.
How do I make these spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the filling or use spicy pepperoni.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, pepperoni-packed bites—they’re sure to be a hit! 🍕✨