Stuffed Pepperoni Pizza Bites

These stuffed pepperoni pizza bites have quickly become a favorite in my household. Perfect for weeknight snacks, game-day appetizers, or even as a fun dinner entree, they pack all the flavors of pizza in one delicious handheld bite. They remind me of the little pizza pockets we used to get as kids, but much fresher and tastier.

The first time I tried these, my family couldn’t stop eating them. Now, they’re the most requested treat during movie nights.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: Provides the soft, fluffy base; homemade or store-bought works fine as long as it’s fresh
• Pepperoni slices: Delivers that savory, classic pizza flavor; opt for your favorite brand
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly; smaller cubes or thick shreds ensure even distribution
• Pizza sauce or marinara: Adds a rich tangy layer; homemade sauce tastes even better
• Olive oil or melted butter: Creates a golden, shiny finish
• Garlic powder: Adds a layer of flavor and depth to the crust
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the pizza flavor
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional for a hint of spice
• Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances their depth
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts flavor with its cheesy nuttiness
• Chopped fresh parsley or basil: Adds freshness and a pop of color

How to Make Stuffed Pepperoni Pizza Bites

Prepare the Dough:

Lightly flour your work surface and roll the pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut the dough into squares approximately 2.5 to 3 inches wide using a pizza cutter or knife. Prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.

Fill the Bites:

Place a small spoonful of pizza sauce on the center of each dough square. Add a cube of mozzarella cheese followed by one to two pepperoni slices. Ensure the filling isn’t too much to prevent bursting.

Seal and Shape:

Carefully pull the corners of each dough square toward the center. Press tightly to seal and roll the dough in your hands to form a smooth round ball. Arrange the dough balls seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Season:

Brush each dough ball lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Evenly sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Add a small pinch of salt for balance.

Bake:

Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bites are puffed, golden brown, and thoroughly cooked. Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs on top for added flavor.

Serve:

Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving. Offer with warm pizza sauce, marinara, or ranch dressing on the side for dipping.

The addition of fresh herbs like parsley or basil creates a refreshing balance when sprinkled on top. These bites remind me of pizza parties from my childhood, only now they come together effortlessly in my own kitchen.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes to retain their crispy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier spin, try using whole wheat pizza dough or low-fat mozzarella. You can also swap the pepperoni for turkey pepperoni or a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms or roasted bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these alongside a fresh green salad or a platter of veggies for a balanced meal. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of lemonade or soda for casual lunches.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe. It saves time and ensures consistent results.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Mozzarella cheese is ideal for its meltability and flavor. You can use cubes or thick shreds for a gooey texture.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the bites a few hours ahead and store them covered in the fridge. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?

Marinara sauce and ranch dressing are classic options. You could also serve them with garlic butter or spicy aioli for extra flavor.

→ How can I ensure the bites don’t burst during baking?

To prevent bursting, avoid overfilling the dough and ensure the seams are tightly sealed before baking.