Transform your weeknight dinners and party appetizers with these irresistible Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls! This easy recipe combines the buttery flakiness of crescent rolls with the classic flavors of pepperoni and melted mozzarella cheese, creating a crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls are the perfect combination of convenience and deliciousness. They’re incredibly versatile, working beautifully as appetizers for game day, quick weeknight dinners, or even packed lunches. The recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, and the preparation is so straightforward that kids can help make them too. The golden, flaky exterior gives way to gooey melted cheese and savory pepperoni, while the Italian seasoning adds that perfect pizza-inspired flavor profile everyone craves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
- 24 slices of pepperoni
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
How to Make Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangular pieces. Gently stretch each triangle slightly to make room for the filling.
Step 3: Add the Filling Place one mozzarella stick at the wide end of each triangle. Add 3 slices of pepperoni on top of the cheese. Sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the filling.
Step 4: Roll and Seal Starting from the wide end, carefully roll each triangle toward the pointed end, ensuring the filling stays inside. Pinch the seams and ends to seal completely, preventing cheese from leaking during baking.
Step 5: Final Touches Place the rolled croissants seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and any remaining Italian seasoning.
Step 6: Bake Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips
Cheese Preparation: Cut mozzarella into sticks rather than cubes to prevent excessive melting and leaking. Pat the cheese dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Sealing Technique: Press the edges firmly with a fork to create a tight seal. This prevents the filling from oozing out during baking.
Temperature Control: Don’t skip the egg wash – it creates that beautiful golden color and helps the Parmesan cheese adhere to the surface.
Even Baking: Space the rolls at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to ensure even browning and prevent them from sticking together.
Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 12-15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 8 rolls Difficulty: Easy
These Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls are best served warm when the cheese is still gooey and the pastry is at its flakiest. The combination of textures and flavors makes them incredibly satisfying, while the marinara dipping sauce adds an extra layer of pizza-inspired taste.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions: You can substitute the fresh mozzarella with string cheese for easier handling, or use provolone for a sharper flavor profile. Turkey pepperoni works just as well as traditional pork pepperoni.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the rolls up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Flavor Variations: Try adding a thin slice of ham, some diced bell peppers, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for different flavor profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of cheese? A: Absolutely! Cheddar, provolone, or even cream cheese work well. Just ensure the cheese is cut into appropriate sizes to prevent excessive melting.
Q: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out? A: Make sure to seal the edges completely and don’t overfill each roll. Using slightly drier cheese varieties can also help.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble them up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate. You can also freeze them before baking for up to 1 month.
Q: What other dipping sauces work well? A: Ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy buffalo sauce complement these rolls beautifully.
Q: Can I make these dairy-free? A: Yes, substitute the cheeses with your favorite dairy-free alternatives and skip the egg wash or use a plant-based milk instead.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer Storage: Freeze baked rolls for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above.
Reheating Tips: Avoid using the microwave as it makes the pastry soggy. The oven or toaster oven will maintain the crispy exterior while warming the filling.
Conclusion
These Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls prove that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding hungry kids, or looking for a quick dinner solution, this recipe delivers on both convenience and taste. The combination of flaky pastry, melted cheese, and savory pepperoni creates a satisfying bite that appeals to all ages. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor impact, these rolls are sure to become a regular feature in your recipe rotation. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping, and watch as they disappear from the plate in minutes!