Air Fryer Pepperoni Roll: The Crispiest, Easiest Recipe

Air Fryer Pepperoni Roll: Craving that warm, doughy, cheesy goodness of a pepperoni roll but short on time? Or maybe you’re just looking for a slightly healthier, less greasy version of this classic snack? Well, you’ve come to the right place! I’m about to share my absolute favorite way to whip up these savory treats in a fraction of the time, and with a perfectly crisp exterior that’s simply irresistible.

The pepperoni roll, a staple in West Virginia and surrounding Appalachian regions, has a fascinating history. Born from the necessity of providing coal miners with a convenient and filling lunch, this humble roll has become a beloved culinary symbol of the area. It’s a testament to resourceful cooking and a delicious example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special.

What makes the pepperoni roll so universally appealing? It’s the perfect combination of soft, slightly sweet bread, the salty, spicy kick of pepperoni, and the gooey, melted cheese that binds it all together. It’s a comforting, satisfying snack or light meal that’s easy to eat on the go. And now, with the magic of the air fryer, enjoying a delicious air fryer pepperoni roll is easier and faster than ever before. Get ready to experience the ultimate in convenience and flavor with this simple and satisfying recipe. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can have a batch of these golden-brown delights ready to enjoy. This air fryer pepperoni roll recipe is a game changer!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Preparing the Pepperoni Rolls:

1. Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). While the air fryer is preheating, you can start preparing the pepperoni rolls. This ensures the air fryer is ready to go when you are.
2. Prepare the pizza dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches. The thinner you roll it, the more layers you’ll have in your roll, but be careful not to tear it. If the dough is too elastic and keeps shrinking back, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing. This allows the gluten to relax.
3. Spread the pizza sauce: Evenly spread the pizza sauce over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border (about 1/2 inch) along one of the long edges. This border will help seal the roll later. Don’t overdo the sauce, as too much can make the rolls soggy. A thin, even layer is perfect.
4. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pizza sauce. Make sure to cover the entire sauced area, as this will help bind the pepperoni to the dough. Don’t be shy with the cheese!
5. Layer the pepperoni: Arrange the pepperoni slices over the mozzarella cheese. Try to distribute them evenly so that each slice of the roll has a good amount of pepperoni. Overlapping the pepperoni slightly is fine.
6. Add Parmesan and seasonings: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pepperoni. Then, sprinkle the garlic powder and Italian seasoning evenly over the entire surface. If you like a little heat, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes at this stage.
7. Roll up the dough: Starting from the long edge opposite the border you left sauce-free, tightly roll up the dough like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam along the border to seal it tightly. This is important to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
8. Slice the roll: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the roll into 1-inch thick slices. You should get about 12-16 rolls, depending on the size of your rectangle.

Air Frying the Pepperoni Rolls:

1. Prepare the air fryer basket: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil or spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the rolls from sticking.
2. Arrange the rolls in the basket: Place the pepperoni rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each roll. Don’t overcrowd the basket, as this will prevent them from cooking evenly. You may need to cook them in batches.
3. Air fry the rolls: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Check them halfway through and flip them over for even browning. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep an eye on them.
4. Check for doneness: The rolls are done when the dough is cooked through and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can reduce the temperature slightly.
5. Remove and cool: Carefully remove the pepperoni rolls from the air fryer basket and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. They will be very hot!

Serving Suggestions:

1. Serve warm: Pepperoni rolls are best served warm, straight from the air fryer.
2. Dipping sauces: Serve with extra pizza sauce, marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for a nice presentation.
4. Enjoy! These air fryer pepperoni rolls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Meat variations: Use different types of meat, such as sausage, ham, or bacon, instead of or in addition to pepperoni.
• Vegetable additions: Add vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, or olives to the filling.
• Spicy rolls: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Garlic butter topping: Brush the rolls with garlic butter (melted butter mixed with garlic powder) before or after air frying for extra flavor.
• Dough variations: Use homemade pizza dough or store-bought crescent roll dough for a different texture. Crescent roll dough will result in a flakier, more buttery roll.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the pepperoni rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to air fry. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the assembled pepperoni rolls. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator and then air fry as directed.
• Air fryer size: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer. Keep an eye on the rolls and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Preventing sticking: To prevent the rolls from sticking to the air fryer basket, make sure to grease the basket well or use parchment paper liners specifically designed for air fryers.
• Even cooking: For even cooking, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the rolls in batches if necessary.
• Crispy crust: For a crispier crust, you can increase the air fryer temperature slightly during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Soft crust: For a softer crust, you can reduce the air fryer temperature slightly and cook the rolls for a longer period of time.
• Serving a crowd: This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to serve a crowd. Just adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.
• Kid-friendly: Pepperoni rolls are a great kid-friendly snack or meal. You can even get the kids involved in making them!

Troubleshooting:

• Rolls are not cooking evenly: Make sure the rolls are spaced evenly in the air fryer basket. If they are too close together, they may not cook evenly.
• Rolls are burning: Reduce the air fryer temperature and cook the rolls for a longer period of time.
• Filling is leaking out: Make sure the seam of the roll is tightly sealed. You can also brush the seam with a little bit of water before sealing it.
• Dough is not cooking through: Increase the air fryer temperature slightly and cook the rolls for a longer period of time.
• Cheese is not melting: Make sure the air fryer is preheated properly. You can also increase the air fryer temperature slightly.
• Rolls are sticking to the basket: Make sure the air fryer basket is well-greased or use parchment paper liners.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 per roll
• Fat: 12-15 grams
• Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams
• Cholesterol: 30-40 mg
• Sodium: 400-500 mg
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
• Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugar: 3-5 grams
• Protein: 10-12 grams

Enjoy your delicious homemade Air Fryer Pepperoni Rolls!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! I truly believe this Air Fryer Pepperoni Roll recipe is a game-changer, and here’s why you absolutely must try it. First and foremost, the air fryer delivers an unparalleled crispiness to the dough that you simply can’t achieve in a conventional oven in the same timeframe. It’s that perfect balance of a golden-brown, slightly crunchy exterior giving way to a soft, pillowy interior bursting with melted cheese and savory pepperoni. The speed and convenience are also undeniable; this is a fantastic option for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or even a fun appetizer for your next gathering. Forget ordering takeout – you can whip up these delicious rolls in a fraction of the time, and with ingredients you likely already have on hand.

But the real magic lies in the flavor. The air fryer intensifies the flavors of the pepperoni, creating a slightly smoky and deeply satisfying taste. The cheese melts to gooey perfection, creating that irresistible pull that everyone loves. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile!

Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving these warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. It adds a tangy sweetness that complements the savory flavors perfectly. You could also try a garlic butter dipping sauce for an extra layer of richness. For a complete meal, pair them with a simple side salad or a bowl of tomato soup.

Now, let’s talk variations! Feel free to get creative and customize these rolls to your liking. Swap out the pepperoni for other cured meats like salami or prosciutto. Add some vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. Experiment with different cheeses – mozzarella, provolone, or even a sprinkle of parmesan would all be delicious. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. You could even brush the tops of the rolls with an egg wash before air frying for an even more golden and glossy finish.

Another fun variation is to make mini pepperoni rolls! Simply cut the dough into smaller squares and fill them with smaller amounts of pepperoni and cheese. These are perfect for parties or for little hands. You can also experiment with different types of dough. While I love using store-bought pizza dough for its convenience, you could also use homemade dough or even crescent roll dough for a different texture and flavor.

I’m confident that once you try this Air Fryer Pepperoni Roll recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying treat.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! And I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What dipping sauce did you use? What did your family think? Please, share your photos and comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy air frying! I can’t wait to see your creations!