Super Bowl Pizza Rolls

The smell of baking pizza dough always takes me back to crowded apartment living rooms during championship games, where everyone gathered around too small tables, elbows bumping, reaching for whatever just came out of the oven. These pizza rolls started as an experiment to feed a crowd without the mess of slice after slice of traditional pizza, and they disappeared so fast I barely got to taste one that first time.

Last year during the Super Bowl, I made three batches and still ran out before halftime. My friend Sarah actually hovered near the kitchen counter pretending to help clean up, but I caught her sneaking the last warm roll when she thought nobody was looking.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all purpose flour: The foundation that gives these rolls their satisfying chew
• 1 packet instant yeast: Makes the dough rise reliably without the fuss of proofing
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and helps the dough develop that gorgeous golden color
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together
• 3/4 cup warm water: Should feel like bath temperature, not hot or you will kill the yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the dough tender and easy to work with
• 3/4 cup halal pepperoni: The savory star that makes these taste like pizza night
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Creates those irresistible cheese pulls in every bite
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce: Spread thin so the dough does not get soggy
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers: Add sweetness and a little crunch
• 1/4 cup diced red onion: Provides a sharp contrast to the rich cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano and basil: The classic pizza herb blend that smells like Italian kitchens
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Brushed on top for that golden finish
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because everything is better with garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan: Optional but adds a salty umami kick
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Makes them look like they came from a bakery

Instructions

Mix the dough:

Combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl, then add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes until doubled.

Prepare for baking:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier later.

Roll it out:

Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 12 by 10 inch rectangle on a floured surface. Try to keep the thickness even so the rolls bake uniformly.

Add the toppings:

Spread pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a half inch border around the edges. Layer on mozzarella, halal pepperoni, bell peppers, red onion, oregano, and basil, distributing everything as evenly as possible.

Roll and slice:

Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the seam to seal it closed. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 1 inch pieces and place them cut side up on your prepared baking sheet.

Finish and bake:

Brush the tops with melted butter or olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, Parmesan if using, and fresh parsley. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Serve warm:

Let them cool for just a few minutes so no one burns their tongue, then serve with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.

Save to Pinterest

These rolls have become my go to for any gathering, not just game days. There is something about food you can eat with one hand that puts people at ease, letting them focus on conversation instead of balancing plates.

Making Them Ahead

You can assemble the entire log, wrap it tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. This trick saved me more than once when hosting dinner parties on busy weeknights.

Freezing Instructions

After slicing but before baking, freeze the rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

Beyond pizza sauce, try marinara, garlic butter, or even a spicy arrabbiata for heat. Ranch and blue cheese dressings work surprisingly well too, especially if you have guests who love creamy dips.

• Warm the dipping sauce slightly before serving
• Put out multiple options so guests can mix and match
• Small ramekins prevent double dipping

Save to Pinterest

Hope these become a staple at your gatherings too. Nothing beats watching people reach for seconds before the first batch is even gone.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How can I make these rolls vegetarian?

Simply omit the pepperoni and add mushrooms, olives, or other veggies for a flavorful vegetarian variation.

→ What are perfect serving suggestions?

Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping, alongside a crisp soda or non-alcoholic beer for a classic game day feel.

→ Can I substitute the halal pepperoni?

Yes, you can replace it with halal turkey or chicken sausage to suit your preferences.

→ What is the best way to store leftover rolls?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for crispiness before serving.

→ Are these rolls suitable for nut-free diets?

Yes, this dish contains no nuts and is safe for nut-free dietary needs.