As the clock counts down to midnight, the sound of laughter and cheers fills the air, and the tantalizing smell of something delicious wafts from the kitchen. I’ve discovered the ultimate New Year’s party appetizer: homemade pizza rolls! Picture this—each bite bursting with gooey cheese, zesty pepperoni, and a hint of oregano, all wrapped in a golden, crunchy dough. These little delights aren’t just easy to whip up, they’re also completely customizable to suit every palate. Whether you’re a fan of classic ingredients or want to get adventurous with fillings, these pizza rolls are the crowd-pleasing treat you need to ring in the new year. They’ll have your friends and family coming back for seconds and thirds—perfect for a night of celebration!
Why Will You Love Pizza Rolls?
Simplicity made for everyone: With beginner-friendly steps, anyone can master these delightful rolls.
Customizable fillings for every taste preference: From traditional pepperoni to your favorite veggies, create your perfect snack!
Crowd-pleaser that sparks joy: These pizza rolls are the ultimate conversation starter at any New Year’s gathering.
Perfectly crispy on the outside, warm and cheesy on the inside: Every bite offers a delightful texture that’s hard to resist.
Make-ahead convenience allows stress-free entertaining: Prep in advance, and simply bake for a fresh, tasty treat!
Pizza Rolls New Year’s Party Appetizer
Ingredients
• If you’re ready to craft these irresistible pizza rolls for your New Year’s celebration, let’s gather what you need!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose or Bread Flour (3 1/4 cups / 390 g) – Provides structure and chewiness to the dough; for extra elasticity, opt for bread flour.
- Kosher Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness in the dough.
- Lukewarm Water (1 1/4 cups) – Activates the yeast for a perfect dough texture; make sure it’s warm, not hot!
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (2 Tbsp + more for brushing) – Adds richness and prevents sticking; vegetable oil works as a substitute.
- Granulated Sugar (1 Tbsp) – Feeds the yeast for a better rise, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Dry Active Yeast (2 1/4 tsp) – This leavening agent gives the dough its necessary rise.
For the Filling
- Marinara Sauce (1/2 cup + more for serving) – The flavorful base that complements your pizza rolls; use homemade or store-bought as you prefer.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Adds an authentic Italian flavor to your filling.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp) – Elevates the flavor profile of the rolls beautifully.
- Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese (2 Tbsp) – Adds umami richness; swap it with pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Shredded Part-Skim Mozzarella (1 cup / about 4 oz) – Gives that classic cheesy stretch; whole milk mozzarella adds even more flavor.
- Pepperoni Slices (50 / about 4 oz) – A traditional filling that delivers fantastic taste; turkey or vegetarian options can work too!
For Baking
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (for brushing) – Ensures a lovely golden-brown crust during baking.
- Cornmeal or Semolina Flour (1/4 cup) – Prevents sticking on your baking surface—it’s a must!
- Sliced Basil (for serving; optional) – A fresh garnish to add a pop of flavor at your New Year’s gathering.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to making the ultimate Pizza Rolls New Year’s Party Appetizer!
How to Make Pizza Rolls
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Gradually pour in the lukewarm water and olive oil while stirring, until a dough forms.
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Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.
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Let it Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
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Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together marinara sauce, oregano, garlic powder, Parmesan, mozzarella, and pepperoni until evenly distributed.
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Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick on a floured surface.
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Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the filling mixture over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
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Roll and Cut: Starting from one long end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into equal sections, about 1-2 inches thick.
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Prepare for Baking: Place the rolls on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet. Brush the tops with extra-virgin olive oil for that golden finish.
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Bake Perfectly: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. They should sound hollow when tapped gently.
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Serve Warm: Allow the pizza rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving with additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with freshly sliced basil for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pizza Rolls are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time and stress while entertaining! You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them, covered tightly, for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, prepare them and freeze (prior to baking) for up to 3 months. Just place the frozen rolls on a baking sheet and pop them directly into a preheated oven—bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and delicious. To maintain their quality, ensure they’re stored in an airtight container or well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, simply bake them straight from the fridge or freezer for an effortlessly tasty appetizer!
Pizza Rolls Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to make these delicious pizza rolls even more exciting with a few easy twists and swaps!
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Dairy-Free: Replace all dairy ingredients with vegan cheese alternatives and use olive oil or vegetable oil for brushing.
For a nutty flavor, consider adding nutritional yeast to the filling. -
Meatless Delight: Substitute pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or a vegan sausage crumbles for a hearty veggie option.
The freshness of vegetables will add great texture and flavor while keeping it plant-based. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeño slices or crushed red pepper flakes into the filling for an extra spicy version.
This will elevate your pizza rolls and take them to the next level of flavor—a great hit for heat lovers! -
Sweet Twist: For a dessert idea, fill the rolls with Nutella or a sweetened cream cheese mixture and top with powdered sugar after baking.
Your guests will love this unexpected treat during the New Year’s celebration! -
Different Sauces: Experiment with BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or pesto as a new base for your filling instead of marinara.
Each sauce brings its distinct flavor, transforming the pizza rolls into something special. -
Cheese Variety: Use a mix of cheeses such as feta, gouda, or cheddar in place of mozzarella for a unique taste.
This will not only diversify your flavor profile but also create a delightful gooeyness. -
Mini Rolls: Instead of making standard-sized rolls, create bite-sized mini rolls for easier snacking.
They’re perfect for parties and allow guests to enjoy a variety of flavors without overindulging! -
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley directly into the dough for an aromatic experience.
This small addition can turn your pizza rolls into a fragrant delight that will tempt any palate!
Expert Tips for Pizza Rolls
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Perfect Dough Temperature: Make sure your lukewarm water is around 110°F; this helps activate the yeast effectively without compromising results.
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Avoid Sticky Dough: If your dough feels too sticky, lightly flour your hands and work surface while kneading to prevent it from sticking.
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Even Filling Distribution: When spreading the filling, ensure an even coating toward the edges for a balanced flavor in each bite of your pizza rolls.
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Rest Before Baking: Let the assembled pizza rolls sit for about 10 minutes before baking. This brief rest allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Check for Doneness: For perfectly baked rolls, they should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when gently tapped. This ensures a delicious texture for your party appetizer!
What to Serve with Pizza Rolls?
As you prepare for a festive New Year’s celebration, consider these delicious pairings to complement your homemade pizza rolls.
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Crispy Salad: A fresh, green salad drizzled with tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly balances the irresistible cheese-filled rolls.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, herb-infused companions provide a deliciously crunchy texture that enhances your pizza experience, making every bite delightful.
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Classic Marinara Sauce: Serve extra marinara for dipping to elevate the flavor profile of your pizza rolls, ensuring guests can enjoy every savory morsel.
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Creamy Ranch Dressing: This rich and tangy dip can be perfect for those who enjoy a zesty kick with their rolls, adding a burst of flavor with every bite.
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Bubbly Sparkling Wine: A chilled sparkling wine or champagne adds a celebratory touch to your gathering, enhancing the festive spirit while pairing wonderfully with savory treats.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized appetizers filled with cheese and herbs are a great addition to your table, providing a unique flavor contrast to the pizza rolls.
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Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh veggies, paired with hummus or a light dip, brings freshness to the table, balancing out the richness of the pizza rolls.
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Fruit Skewers: Bright and juicy fruit skewers can cleanse the palate between cheesy bites, creating a cheerful atmosphere with their pops of color.
Make your New Year’s party truly unforgettable with these delightful pairings alongside your Pizza Rolls!
Storage Tips for Pizza Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover baked pizza rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy exterior.
Freezer: For make-ahead convenience, freeze assembled, unbaked pizza rolls for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, pizza rolls can be left at room temperature for about 2 hours. After that, be sure to refrigerate any leftovers.
Reheating: To reheat leftover pizza rolls, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best results.
Pizza Rolls New Year’s Party Appetizer Recipe FAQs
How do I know if the dough has risen enough?
Look for the dough to have doubled in size, which usually takes about 60-90 minutes. It should feel slightly puffy to the touch. If you gently press your finger into the dough and the indentation remains, it’s ready to be rolled out!
What should I consider when choosing ingredients for my pizza rolls?
Absolutely! When looking for ingredients, opt for fresh and high-quality components. For cheese, part-skim mozzarella provides a great melt, while using freshly grated cheese enhances flavor. Choose pepperoni that has a good balance of spice, or swap for turkey or veggie options for a healthier or vegetarian twist.
How can I store leftover pizza rolls?
Store any leftover baked pizza rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While they can be reheated in the microwave, for the best results, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Can I prepare pizza rolls in advance?
Very! You can freeze unbaked pizza rolls for up to 2 months. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, baking straight from the freezer.
What dietary substitutes can I make for pizza rolls?
If you have specific dietary needs, consider these alternatives: use whole wheat flour for a healthier dough, or reduce the cheese for a lighter option. For gluten-free diets, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies, particularly with pre-made items like sauces.
What if my pizza rolls are soggy after baking?
Soggy pizza rolls can be a disappointment! To avoid this, ensure your filling isn’t too watery—drain any excess liquid from the marinara sauce. Additionally, let the rolls sit for a few minutes to cool before serving; this will help maintain their crisp texture.
Pizza Rolls: Your Ultimate New Year's Party Appetizer!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Gradually pour in the lukewarm water and olive oil while stirring, until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for 60-90 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together marinara sauce, oregano, garlic powder, Parmesan, mozzarella, and pepperoni until evenly distributed.
- Punch the dough down to release the air and roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Evenly spread the filling mixture over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one long end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into equal sections, about 1-2 inches thick.
- Place the rolls on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet. Brush the tops with extra-virgin olive oil for that golden finish.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the pizza rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving with additional marinara sauce on the side.