Name: Homemade Cheesy Pizza Rolls Recipe – Crispy & Delicious
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded provolone cheese; 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 3/4 cup marinara sauce, plus more for serving (warmed); 1/3 cup chopped pepperoni (optional); 1 clove garlic, grated; 1 tablespoon dried basil; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves; 1/2 teaspoon crushed fennel seed; 1 pinch red pepper flakes; 1 pinch kosher salt and black pepper; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 36-40 square wonton wrappers

Pin This! Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Did you know that pizza rolls have become one of America’s most beloved snacks, with millions consumed annually across households nationwide? These bite-sized treats offer the perfect combination of crispy exterior and molten cheese interior that makes them irresistible to both kids and adults. Today, I’m sharing my recipe for homemade cheesy pizza rolls that will revolutionize your snack game forever.

Unlike store-bought frozen versions, these homemade cheesy pizza rolls are made with fresh ingredients and customizable fillings. You’ll learn how to create perfectly crispy wonton wrapper shells filled with a three-cheese blend and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing after-school snacks, or craving comfort food, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.

Why Homemade Cheesy Pizza Rolls Matter

Creating homemade cheesy pizza rolls allows you to control every ingredient while achieving superior taste and texture. Fresh herbs, quality cheeses, and the ability to customize fillings make these infinitely better than their processed counterparts. The satisfaction of biting into a perfectly golden roll with stretchy melted cheese creates an experience that store-bought versions simply can’t match.

External Resources

Before diving into this recipe, you might want to explore some complementary dishes. Check out our French Toast Sticks for another crowd-pleasing finger food option, or try our Easy Chocolate Crescents for a sweet variation using similar wrapping techniques. For more inspiration on quality finger foods, this Reddit discussion offers great ideas, and Allrecipes’ cheese appetizers gallery provides additional cheesy snack inspiration.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pizza Rolls
Extra virgin olive oil – for drizzling and golden color (substitute: avocado oil) 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – provides stretchy texture (substitute: low-fat mozzarella) 1 cup shredded provolone cheese – adds sharp flavor (substitute: fontina or gouda) 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – creates nutty depth (substitute: pecorino romano) 3/4 cup marinara sauce – binds filling together (substitute: pizza sauce or tomato paste) 1/3 cup chopped pepperoni – optional protein boost (substitute: cooked sausage or omit) 1 clove garlic, grated – aromatic base note (substitute: garlic powder) 1 tablespoon dried basil – classic pizza herb (substitute: Italian seasoning) 1 tablespoon dried oregano – earthy flavor (substitute: fresh oregano, chopped) 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves – subtle complexity (substitute: rosemary) 1/2 teaspoon crushed fennel seed – Italian sausage flavor (substitute: omit or use caraway) 1 pinch red pepper flakes – gentle heat (adjust to taste) Kosher salt and black pepper – seasoning balance 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs – crispy coating (substitute: panko or crushed crackers) 36-40 square wonton wrappers – essential wrapper (substitute: egg roll wrappers, cut smaller)

Ingredient Spotlight

The magic of these homemade cheesy pizza rolls lies in the three-cheese blend. Mozzarella provides that iconic cheese pull, while provolone adds a sharper, more complex flavor profile. Parmesan contributes both to the filling and the crispy coating, creating layers of umami that elevate each bite.

Wonton wrappers are the secret weapon here – they’re thinner than egg roll wrappers, creating a delicate, crispy shell that doesn’t overpower the filling. The marinara sauce acts as both flavor enhancer and binding agent, preventing the cheese from becoming too dry during baking.

Timing

Recipe Timeline
Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 10-12 minutes Total Time: 42 minutes Servings: 8 people (4-5 rolls per person) Efficiency Note: 20% faster than traditional egg roll preparation

Instructions

Step-by-Step Preparation
Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly grease 2 baking sheets with olive oil. This high temperature ensures crispy exteriors while melting the cheese perfectly inside. Create the Filling In a large bowl, combine mozzarella, provolone, 1/4 cup parmesan, marinara sauce, pepperoni (if using), grated garlic, basil, oregano, thyme, fennel, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly distributed – the mixture should hold together but not be too wet. Prepare the Coating In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs with remaining 1/2 cup parmesan. This creates a golden, flavorful crust that adds textural contrast to the soft filling. Assembly Station Fill a bowl with water for dampening wrappers. Work in batches of 4 wrappers at a time to prevent them from drying out. Brush each wrapper lightly with water to make them pliable. Fill and Fold Place 1 scant tablespoon of cheese mixture in the center of each dampened wrapper. Fold both sides over the filling like an envelope, overlapping slightly and pressing gently to seal. Then fold the two ends over the center fold and press to create a neat package. Coat the Rolls Dip each completed roll in water, letting excess drip off, then roll through the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Place on prepared baking sheets, ensuring they don’t touch. Bake to Perfection Drizzle each roll with olive oil for extra golden color. Bake for 10-12 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be bubbling inside – you’ll hear gentle sizzling. Serve Immediately Serve warm with additional warmed marinara sauce for dipping. Let cool for 2-3 minutes to avoid molten cheese burns, but serve while still hot for the best cheese pull.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Homemade Cheesy Pizza Rolls

Pro Tips for Success
Don’t Overfill: Use exactly 1 scant tablespoon of filling to prevent bursting during baking. Too much filling creates messy leaks and uneven cooking. Seal Properly: Press edges firmly but gently to avoid tearing the delicate wonton wrapper. Wet fingers help create better seals. Work in Batches: Keep unused wonton wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out and cracking. Oil is Essential: The olive oil drizzle isn’t optional – it creates the golden, crispy exterior that makes these irresistible. Temperature Matters: Don’t lower the oven temperature. The high heat creates steam inside the wrapper, cooking the filling while crisping the outside simultaneously.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Meat Lover’s Version: Add cooked Italian sausage, diced ham, or crispy bacon bits to the cheese mixture for extra protein and flavor depth.

Vegetarian Delight: Include finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté vegetables first to remove excess moisture.

Spicy Kick: Double the red pepper flakes and add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling mixture.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free. Rice paper can substitute for wonton wrappers with adjusted cooking time.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by my childhood love of pizza rolls combined with my passion for fresh, homemade ingredients. After countless disappointing frozen versions, I experimented with wonton wrappers instead of traditional dough, discovering they create a superior texture that’s both delicate and crispy. The three-cheese blend took months to perfect, balancing meltability with flavor complexity. Each herb was chosen specifically to complement the cheese without overwhelming the overall taste profile.

Pairing Ideas

These homemade cheesy pizza rolls pair beautifully with fresh garden salads dressed in light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Serve alongside sparkling water with lemon or classic Italian sodas for refreshing contrast. For heartier meals, they work wonderfully as appetizers before pasta dishes or as sides with soup. Consider offering multiple dipping sauces – ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy marinara – to please different taste preferences.

Leftover & Reuse Ideas

Leftover pizza rolls reheat beautifully in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes, restoring their crispy texture. Alternatively, use a toaster oven for similar results. Avoid microwaving as it makes the coating soggy. Leftover filling can be used as a pasta sauce, pizza topping, or stuffing for baked chicken breasts. The breadcrumb mixture stores well in the refrigerator for future use on other baked dishes.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (4-5 rolls) contains approximately 320 calories, 18g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. The three-cheese blend provides calcium and protein, while the herbs contribute antioxidants and flavor without added calories. Using whole wheat wonton wrappers can increase fiber content, and reducing cheese slightly can lower overall fat content while maintaining great taste.

Serving Suggestions

Present these golden homemade cheesy pizza rolls on a warm platter garnished with fresh basil leaves and accompanied by small bowls of warmed marinara sauce. For parties, arrange them on tiered serving stands with colorful napkins. Individual small plates make sharing easier and more elegant. Consider serving 4-5 rolls per person as appetizers, or 6-8 as a main course for lighter eaters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling the Wrappers: This causes bursting and uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended tablespoon measurement for consistent results.

Skipping the Water Dip: The water helps the breadcrumbs adhere and creates steam for proper cooking. Don’t skip this crucial step.

Underbaking: Pale rolls won’t have the proper crispy texture. Look for deep golden brown color before removing from the oven.

Using Cold Marinara: Room temperature or slightly warm marinara mixes better with the cheese and prevents the filling from becoming too stiff.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store cooled pizza rolls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them on baking sheets until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat refrigerated rolls in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy. Frozen rolls can go directly into a 400°F oven for 8-10 minutes. Never microwave for reheating as it destroys the crispy texture that makes these special.

FAQs

Can I make homemade cheesy pizza rolls ahead of time?: Yes! Assemble the rolls completely, coat them in breadcrumbs, and freeze on baking sheets. Once frozen, store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to cooking time.
Are homemade cheesy pizza rolls suitable for kids?: Absolutely! Kids love the bite-sized portions and mild flavors. You can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for sensitive palates and let children help with the assembly process for a fun family cooking activity.
What’s the best way to prevent homemade cheesy pizza rolls from bursting?: Use the correct amount of filling (1 scant tablespoon), seal edges properly with slightly damp fingers, and ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking. Proper sealing is crucial for preventing leaks.
Can I make homemade cheesy pizza rolls without pepperoni?: Definitely! The pepperoni is completely optional. The three-cheese blend with herbs creates plenty of flavor on its own. You can substitute with other proteins or keep them vegetarian.
How do I know when homemade cheesy pizza rolls are done?: Look for deep golden brown color and listen for gentle sizzling sounds indicating the cheese is bubbling inside. They should feel crispy to the touch and be heated through completely, which typically takes 10-12 minutes at 425°F.

Conclusion

Golden brown homemade cheesy pizza rolls arranged on a white serving platter with a small bowl of marinara dipping sauce and fresh basil garnish

These homemade cheesy pizza rolls prove that the best comfort foods come from your own kitchen. With their perfectly crispy exteriors, molten three-cheese centers, and aromatic herb blend, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for parties, snacks, or family dinners. The simple technique using wonton wrappers makes them accessible to cooks of all skill levels while delivering professional-quality results.

Made these Homemade Cheesy Pizza Rolls? Drop your twist in the comments, rate the recipe, and tag us on facebook, instagram with #erinrecipes — we might feature your creation!

Servings:

servings

Author: Erin