Here is a detailed, step-by-step recipe for Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls — crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside.
Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls
Ingredients (Makes 8 rolls)
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1 can (13–16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
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32 slices pepperoni (about 4 per roll)
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8 mozzarella cheese sticks, halved
OR 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella -
2 tablespoons melted butter
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
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2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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Marinara sauce for dipping
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
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Remove pizza dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes for easier handling.
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Lightly flour a clean surface.
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Roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
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Cut into 8 equal rectangles.
Step 2: Fill the Rolls
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Place 4 slices of pepperoni in the center of each dough rectangle.
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Add one half cheese stick (or about 2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella) on top of the pepperoni.
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Fold the sides of the dough inward, then roll tightly from one end to the other.
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Pinch all seams closed firmly to prevent cheese from leaking.
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Place rolls seam-side down.
Tip: If needed, lightly dampen the edges of the dough with water to help seal.
Step 3: Season the Tops
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In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
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Brush the tops of each roll generously with the butter mixture.
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Sprinkle with grated Parmesan if using.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
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Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 5: Air Fry the Pepperoni Rolls
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Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
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Arrange rolls in a single layer, leaving space between them.
Cook in batches if necessary. -
Air fry at 350°F for 7–9 minutes.
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Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
Rolls are done when golden brown and crisp.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
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Allow rolls to cool for 3–5 minutes (cheese will be very hot).
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Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Pepperoni Rolls
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Do not overfill or the cheese may leak out.
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Make sure seams are tightly sealed.
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For extra crispiness, lightly spray tops with cooking spray before air frying.
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If cheese leaks, it’s normal — simply trim excess after cooling.
Flavor Variations
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Add cooked sausage or ham.
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Use provolone or cheddar cheese.
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Add a spoonful of pizza sauce inside before rolling.
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Sprinkle crushed red pepper for heat.
Storage & Reheating
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Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in air fryer at 325°F for 3–4 minutes.
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Can be frozen before cooking; add 2–3 extra minutes to cook time if air frying from frozen.