Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Pinwheels Recipe

Introduction

Pizza pinwheels are a fun and tasty twist on traditional pizza, perfect for parties or a casual snack. These bite-sized rolls are packed with marinara, cheese, and pepperoni, baked until golden and crispy. They’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough
• 2 cups marinara sauce (divided)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan
• 32 pepperoni slices
• 2 tsp parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a large cutting board, unroll the refrigerated pizza dough and gently roll it out until it’s about ¼–⅓ inch thick.
2. Step 2: Spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving about an inch along one long edge clean to seal the roll later.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes evenly over the sauce. Add a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then cover the entire surface with pepperoni slices.
4. Step 4: Carefully roll the dough into a log, keeping your hand on the pepperoni to keep everything tight and secure.
5. Step 5: Slice the log in half, then cut each half in half again to create four sections total. Cut each section into three pinwheels.
6. Step 6: Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 22–25 minutes, until puffed and deeply golden brown.
7. Step 7: Allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, omit the pepperoni and add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers instead.
• Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano in place of dried Italian seasoning for a brighter flavor.
• Try adding a drizzle of garlic butter on top before baking for extra richness.
• To save time, use a pre-made pizza sauce from your favorite brand.

Storage

Store leftover pizza pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes to keep them crispy, or microwave for 30-60 seconds if short on time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make pizza pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and bake directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I use instead of pepperoni?

You can substitute pepperoni with other cured meats like salami, cooked sausage, or leave it out for a vegetarian option filled with veggies and extra cheese.

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Pinwheels Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 143 reviews

Delicious and easy-to-make Pizza Pinwheels featuring a rolled pizza dough filled with marinara sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, and pepperoni, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for snack time, parties, or a fun appetizer.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 22-25 minutes
• Total Time: 37-40 minutes
• Yield: 12 pinwheels 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pizza Dough and Sauce

• 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough
• 2 cups marinara sauce (divided)

Seasonings

• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes

Cheese and Toppings

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ⅓ cup grated parmesan
• 32 pepperoni slices
• 2 tsp parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a large cutting board, unroll the refrigerated pizza dough and gently roll it out until it’s about ¼ to ⅓ inch thick to create a flat, even surface.
2. Spread Sauce: Evenly spread marinara sauce over the rolled-out dough, leaving about an inch clear along one long edge. This space will help you seal the dough when rolling.
3. Season and Layer Cheese and Pepperoni: Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes over the sauce. Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, and then evenly cover the entire surface with pepperoni slices.
4. Roll the Dough: Carefully roll the dough up into a tight log, using one hand to hold the pepperoni in place as you roll to ensure everything stays securely inside.
5. Slice into Pinwheels: Once rolled, slice the log in half, then cut each half in half again to create four sections. Cut each section into three equal pinwheels, resulting in a total of 12 pieces.
6. Bake: Place the pinwheels spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes until they are puffed up and deeply golden brown.
7. Cool and Garnish: Allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Finish by sprinkling with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• Make sure not to overfill the dough to avoid spillage when rolling.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
• You can substitute pepperoni with other cured meats or vegetables for a variation.
• Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
• These pinwheels can be made ahead and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: pizza pinwheels, appetizer, party snacks, easy pizza recipe, pepperoni pinwheels, baked snacks