What goes together better than pizza and breadsticks? Not much! Prepare to have your mind (and taste buds) blown as we combine these two culinary delights into one irresistible creation: Pizza Roll Breadsticks. Easy to make, wonderfully cheesy, and utterly delicious, these are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Forget the ordinary; it’s time to experience the extraordinary fusion of a warm, savory breadstick and a classic pepperoni pizza roll!
Unleash Your Inner Pizza Lover: Introducing Pizza Roll Breadsticks
Pizza holds a special place in my heart, and I’m sure many of you share that sentiment. It’s a food that brings comfort, joy, and endless possibilities. And what better companion to a perfectly baked pizza than a side of warm, garlicky cheese breadsticks, especially with that little container of marinara or garlic sauce for dipping? You know exactly what I’m talking about!
This recipe didn’t start as a meticulously planned culinary endeavor. It began simply, as many of the best ideas do, out of a desire for a quick, satisfying snack using what was already on hand in the fridge. The result? These incredible Pizza Roll Breadsticks – a concept so simple, yet so incredibly fun and flavorful, it quickly became a go-to.
Imagine the golden-brown crust of a breadstick, infused with savory Italian seasoning and garlic butter, encasing gooey melted mozzarella and zesty pepperoni. It’s the ultimate handheld snack, appetizer, or side dish that captures the essence of both beloved treats in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a game night, need a quick after-school snack for the kids, or simply craving something uniquely delicious, these Pizza Roll Breadsticks are your answer. They’re more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a truly satisfying homemade treat.
Why These Pizza Roll Breadsticks Will Be Your New Obsession
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Pizza Roll Breadsticks, making them a staple in any busy household. They offer the perfect blend of convenience, customization, and undeniably delicious flavor. Here’s why they stand out:
- Effortless Preparation: Using store-bought pizza dough dramatically cuts down on prep time. This means you can whip up a batch of these cheesy delights in under 30 minutes, from start to finish. Perfect for those spontaneous cravings or unexpected guests!
- Irresistible Flavor Combination: Each breadstick is a harmonious marriage of classic pizza flavors – tangy pepperoni, rich mozzarella, and savory dough – all brushed with a fragrant garlic butter blend. It’s comfort food redefined, offering the best of both worlds in a single, satisfying bite.
- Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing: These are a surefire hit with eaters of all ages. Kids adore the “pizza roll” aspect and the fun of dipping them, while adults appreciate the simple yet gourmet taste. They’re ideal for parties, movie nights, or as a fun addition to any family meal.
- Highly Customizable: While pepperoni and mozzarella are a classic combination, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs, making it a truly adaptable dish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you need a quick appetizer for a gathering, a hearty snack to curb hunger, or a fun side dish for dinner, these breadsticks fit the bill. They’re substantial enough to satisfy but light enough not to spoil your main course.
- Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a larger batch and freeze them for later! This makes future snack times even easier, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness with minimal effort whenever the craving strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Roll Breadsticks
Absolutely! While refrigerated pizza dough is a fantastic time-saver, preparing your own homemade dough can add an extra layer of freshness and flavor. If you have a go-to Homemade Pizza Dough recipe you love, feel free to use it. Alternatively, you can always follow a trusted recipe to craft your own from scratch, which often results in a wonderfully tender and flavorful crust.
Just like with the pizza dough, using homemade marinara sauce is highly encouraged if you enjoy cooking from scratch. A freshly made sauce can elevate the entire experience. Our Homemade Marinara Sauce recipe is an excellent choice if you’re looking for one. You can also opt for a quality store-bought pizza sauce for dipping. Keep in mind that pizza sauce is generally thicker and has a slightly more concentrated flavor profile than marinara, offering a different but equally delicious dipping experience.
For optimal melting and that classic stretchy cheese pull, regular mozzarella string cheese is usually the top choice. Its mild flavor perfectly complements the pepperoni and Italian seasonings. However, don’t feel limited! If you’re not a fan of mozzarella or want to experiment, you can use other types of cheese sticks. Cheddar, for instance, offers a sharper taste but might take a bit longer to melt evenly. Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses could also work beautifully, adding a different dimension to your breadsticks. Choose the cheese that best fits your personal preference!
Yes, absolutely! Air frying is a fantastic alternative for achieving a crispier exterior with less oil. To air fry these Pizza Roll Breadsticks, preheat your air fryer to approximately 370°F (188°C). Place the rolled breadsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, checking frequently and flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Cooking times can vary between air fryer models, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Yes, these Pizza Roll Breadsticks freeze wonderfully, making them an excellent option for meal prepping or having quick snacks on hand. You have two main options:
- Before Baking: Prepare the breadsticks up to the point of rolling and sealing them. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, place them directly from the freezer onto a prepared baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since they are starting from frozen.
- After Baking: Fully bake the breadsticks, then allow them to cool completely. Once cool, place them in an airtight freezer-safe container. To reheat, you can use the microwave, oven, or air fryer until heated through and the cheese is melted again.
Any leftover Pizza Roll Breadsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about a minute or until they are heated through and the cheese is delightfully gooey again. For a crispier exterior, you can also reheat them in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes.
Refrigerated pizza dough from a can or roll is highly recommended for its convenience and consistent results. It’s incredibly forgiving and easy to work with. While homemade dough is always an option, the pre-made variety ensures a speedy preparation, which is perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Look for brands that offer a classic or thin-crust style dough for the best breadstick texture.
Crafting the Perfect Pizza Roll Breadsticks: Ingredients & Tips
The beauty of these Pizza Roll Breadsticks lies in their simplicity, requiring just a handful of readily available ingredients. While the core components are straightforward, a few tips can ensure your breadsticks turn out perfectly every time.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED:
- Prepared Pizza Dough: A 13.8-ounce package of refrigerated pizza dough is ideal for ease. It provides a consistent base that’s easy to roll and shape.
- Pepperoni Slices: About 36 slices for nine breadsticks. Choose your favorite brand for that classic pizza flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: Nine individual string cheese sticks. Mozzarella melts beautifully and offers that satisfyingly gooey center.
- Salted Butter: Melted, for brushing. This is the foundation of our flavorful garlic butter topping.
- Dried Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. This adds an authentic pizza parlor aroma and taste.
- Garlic Powder: Essential for that savory, aromatic garlic breadstick flavor. Adjust to your taste – more garlic, more delicious!
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): Shredded or grated Parmesan adds a salty, umami kick and a lovely golden finish.
- Marinara or Pizza Sauce: Warmed, for serving and dipping. This completes the pizza experience.
Tips for Success:
- Dough Handling: When unrolling the pizza dough, be gentle. While forgiving, avoid overstretching it too thinly, as this can make it harder to seal and potentially lead to cheese leakage.
- Sealing is Key: Pinching the seams firmly is crucial to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking. Take your time to ensure all edges are securely sealed.
- Garlic Butter Bliss: Don’t skimp on the garlic butter! Brushing it generously before baking (and even a second time after baking if you’re a garlic butter enthusiast) infuses the breadsticks with incredible flavor and helps them achieve that beautiful golden crust.
- Even Baking: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 450°F (232°C). This high heat helps the dough cook quickly and evenly, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior and a soft interior.
- Cookie Sheet Preparation: Always use cooking spray or line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
How to Make Pepperoni Roll Breadsticks: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these delightful Pepperoni Roll Breadsticks is a straightforward process that yields incredibly satisfying results. Follow these simple steps to bring this cheesy, savory snack to life in your kitchen.
Preparation:
- Preheat Oven and Prep Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 450 degrees F (232°C). While the oven heats, grab a large baking sheet and generously spray it with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent your delicious breadsticks from sticking.
- Unroll and Slice the Dough: Carefully unroll the prepared pizza dough onto a clean, flat surface. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, slice the dough into 9 relatively equal rectangles. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly uniform; pizza dough is quite pliable and forgiving, as seen in the photo below. Arrange these rectangles onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Add the Pepperoni: On each dough rectangle, place 3-4 slices of pepperoni. Arrange them so they cover a good portion of the dough, preparing for the rolling process. This ensures a burst of savory flavor in every bite.
- Position the Cheese: Now, center a single mozzarella cheese stick on top of the pepperoni slices on each dough rectangle. This creates the gooey, cheesy core of your breadstick.
- Roll and Seal: Carefully roll the dough up, starting from one end, enclosing the pepperoni and mozzarella inside. Once rolled, pinch the ends and the seam tightly to seal everything in. It’s crucial that all seams are well-sealed to prevent any delicious cheese from oozing out during baking, ensuring a perfectly contained and cheesy center.
- Prepare and Apply Garlic Butter Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and the optional Parmesan cheese. Whisk everything together until well combined. Using a pastry brush, generously brush this flavorful mixture across the tops of each rolled breadstick. Chef’s Note: You can apply this butter mixture before baking, after baking, or even both! If you’re like me and adore a rich garlic butter flavor, a double coat (before and a light brush after they come out of the oven) takes them to the next level.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the dough is thoroughly cooked through and boasts a beautiful, lightly golden-brown hue. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so watch them closely.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and allow them to cool for just a couple of minutes on the baking sheet. This brief cooling period helps the cheese set slightly, preventing it from being too molten. Serve these delectable Pizza Roll Breadsticks warm, alongside a bowl of warmed marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
Serving Suggestions and Customization Ideas
These Pizza Roll Breadsticks are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for almost any occasion. Here are some ideas to make them even more special:
Perfect Pairings:
- Dipping Sauces: While marinara and pizza sauce are classics, don’t hesitate to experiment! Ranch dressing, garlic aioli, a creamy pesto dip, or even a spicy sriracha mayo can add an exciting twist.
- Game Day Appetizer: Serve a platter of these alongside other finger foods like wings, chips, and veggie sticks for the ultimate game day spread.
- After-School Treat: A warm breadstick is the perfect comforting snack to greet kids after a long day at school.
- Quick Dinner Side: Pair them with a simple salad or a bowl of soup for an easy and satisfying weeknight meal.
- Party Pleaser: They’re easy to transport and reheat, making them ideal for potlucks or casual get-togethers.
Endless Customization:
The beauty of this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your preferences. Here are some ideas to spark your culinary creativity:
- Vary the Cheese: Instead of just mozzarella, try a blend of shredded mozzarella and provolone, or even a smoked gouda for a richer flavor. For a slight kick, add a thin slice of pepper jack.
- Add More Fillings:
- Veggies: Finely diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of black olives can add extra flavor and nutrition.
- Meats: Cooked crumbled sausage, finely diced ham, or even small pieces of cooked chicken can replace or complement the pepperoni.
- Herbs: A pinch of dried oregano or basil added directly to the dough or cheese can enhance the Italian flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, tuck in a few thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes with the pepperoni.
- Garlic Butter Variations: Add a pinch of dried parsley, a dash of onion powder, or a tiny amount of red pepper flakes to your butter mixture for a different flavor profile.
- Make Them Vegetarian: Simply omit the pepperoni! You can replace it with additional cheese, a thin slice of bell pepper, or even a sun-dried tomato for a vegetarian pizza breadstick.
Want More Delicious Recipes?
- Homemade Garlic Breadsticks
- Copycat Bosco Sticks
- Easy Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks
- Pizza Hut Breadsticks
- Copycat Little Caesar’s Crazy Bread
- Garlic Cheese Bread
- Texas Toast Pizzas
Pizza Roll Breadsticks
What goes together better than pizza and breadsticks? How about combining the two and making these Pizza Roll Breadsticks? Easy, cheesy and delicious!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 9
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 13.8 ounce package refrigerated pizza dough
- 36 pepperoni slices
- 9 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons shredded or grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Warmed marinara or pizza sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Spray a large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
- Unroll the prepared pizza dough on a flat surface. Slice into 9 rectangles. Place the rectangles onto the baking sheet.
- Add 3-4 slices of pepperoni per rectangle.
- Place a single mozzarella stick on the center of each rectangle.
- Roll the dough up and pinch the ends to seal the pepperoni and mozzarella inside. Make sure all seams are sealed to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking.
- Mix together the melted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder and parmesan cheese in a small bowl and brush the mixture across the tops of each breadstick. Note: you can do this before OR after or before AND after baking. I personally love a lot of garlic butter so I will often double the garlic butter and do it before and after baking.
- Bake in the oven for 10 minutes or until the dough is cooked through and lightly golden brown. Serve with warmed marinara or pizza sauce.
Notes
- You can make your own homemade pizza dough and marinara sauce if you’d like.
- The marinara sauce is not calculated in nutritional value.
- These can be frozen (see my tips above).
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Calories: 254kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 14g | Sodium: 694mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
Did you make this recipe? Share it on Instagram @thecountrycook and mention us #thecountrycook!