Pepperoni Pizza Balls with Crescent Rolls
Buttery crescent roll dough wrapped around pepperoni, mozzarella, and marinara sauce, then baked until golden and topped with melted cheese. A handheld appetizer with crispy exterior and gooey center, served with warm marinara for dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 8 oz tube Pillsbury Grands! Big and Buttery Crescent Rolls, removed from can
- 1 5 oz bag Hormel Pepperoni Minis, wholesliced pepperoni or other cured meat3 slices per ballmeatseasoned
adjust quantity as desired
- 1 8 oz mozzarella block, ball, or shredded, cut or torn into portions, then as sheets
- 16 oz can marinara sauce, divided
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Italian seasoning, to taste(optional)
- 1 tbsp grated parmesan, sprinkle on top before serving
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375.
- 2
Remove dough from can, unroll, separate pieces, and press each into a round shape by hand. Place on a lightly floured pan.
- 3
Spread a thin layer of marinara on the center of each dough round and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- 4
Fill each piece with mozzarella and pepperonis, then wrap dough around filling and pinch edges to seal into a ball. Place seam-side down on pan.
- 5
Space balls about a half inch apart.
- 6
Brush melted butter over the exposed surfaces of the balls and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Pour any remaining butter into the pan.
- 7
Bake for approximately 13 minutes at 375-400 F.
- 8
Remove from oven and let rest for a minute. Brush or spoon marinara over each ball.
- 9
Cover each ball with mozzarella sheets and press pepperonis into the cheese.
- 10
Return to oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts.
- 11
Remove and let rest for 3-4 minutes. Serve with marinara or ranch for dipping.
Tips
Use a cast iron skillet or flat pizza pan lined with aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
Leave adequate spacing between balls to ensure even cooking.
Prepare mozzarella sheets while balls bake for efficient assembly in the second bake.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked pizza balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350 F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Prepare pizza balls through the first bake (after step 7), cool completely, refrigerate, then finish with marinara, cheese, and second bake when ready to serve.
Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip spacing between balls to avoid them fusing together during baking.
Do not use excessive marinara in the initial layer to avoid soggy dough.
Do not skip the rest periods to avoid burns when handling hot cheese.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
similar fat content required
adjust quantity as desired