Urban Cowboy Pizza Rolls are a hearty, hand-held snack that combines the classic flavors of a pepperoni pizza with the satisfying crunch of a fried (or baked) roll. Inspired by the cowboy cuisine of the American Southwest, these rolls are stuffed with a savory mixture of pepperoni, mozzarella, and a zesty tomato sauce, then baked until golden and crisp. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or a fun weeknight dinner, and they’re surprisingly simple to make at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup (240 ml) pizza sauce
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz (115 g) sliced pepperoni, chopped
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, chopped pepperoni, and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Season with oregano and garlic powder.
- Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, similar to a cinnamon roll. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal slices, about 1.5 inches thick.
- Place the slices cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Brush the tops and sides with the beaten egg, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. The internal temperature of the rolls should reach 165°F (74°C) as a safe minimum for leftovers, but for fresh rolls, ensure they are hot and the dough is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Dough handling: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too stiff, let it rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Even slices: Use a serrated knife or dental floss to cut the roll cleanly without squishing the filling.
- Make ahead: Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- No pizza sauce? Use marinara or tomato paste mixed with a little water and Italian seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pizza rolls warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping. They pair well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of tomato soup. For a game-day spread, offer them alongside other finger foods like chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, or a veggie platter.
Variations
- Meat lovers: Add cooked crumbled sausage, bacon bits, or diced ham.
- Veggie: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and olives.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
- BBQ chicken: Swap pizza sauce for BBQ sauce and use cooked chicken instead of pepperoni.
- Cheese-stuffed crust: Place a stick of string cheese in the center of the roll before slicing for an extra gooey center.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for 30-45 seconds, but they will be less crispy. For longer storage, freeze the baked rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen rolls directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough? Yes, you can, but the texture will be lighter and flakier. Adjust the baking time to 12-15 minutes and check for doneness.
How do I prevent the rolls from unraveling? Make sure to pinch the seam well after rolling, and place the rolls cut-side up on the baking sheet. Also, don’t overfill them.
Can I make these in an air fryer? Absolutely. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the rolls in the basket in a single layer, and cook for 8-10 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
What if I don’t have pepperoni? You can use cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even sliced turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
Can I prepare these rolls in advance and freeze them unbaked? Yes, assemble the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, adding a few minutes if needed.
Why are my rolls soggy? Sogginess usually comes from too much sauce or filling. Make sure to drain any watery ingredients (like cooked vegetables) and use a moderate amount of sauce.
Related
- Texas Sheet Cake: What It Is and How to Make It
- Venti Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso Calories and Recipe
- What Is Brown Sugar Made Of? Ingredients and Types
More recipes to cook
Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).