Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks

Craving pizza, but want something a little more fun and snackable? Say hello to Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks—the ultimate handheld, cheesy, pizza-inspired treat! Imagine a crispy, golden crust stuffed with gooey melted cheese and savory pepperoni, all dipped in marinara sauce for that perfect pizza experience in stick form. It’s a game-changer, and trust me, these will disappear faster than you can say “pizza party!”

Whether you’re making these for a casual weeknight dinner, a snack for movie night, or even as a party appetizer, these Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks are sure to hit the spot. They’re simple to make, and each bite is filled with that irresistible pizza flavor you crave. Let’s get ready to dive into cheesy, pepperoni goodness!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks

Super Fun to Eat:

Who doesn’t love finger food? These cheesy pizza sticks are the perfect size to dip, grab, and go. They’re playful, fun, and full of that cheesy pizza goodness everyone loves.

Perfect for Pizza Lovers:

If you’re a fan of classic pepperoni pizza, this is basically a mini version of it, but with the added bonus of being easy to eat with your hands. Plus, they’re extra cheesy!

Quick & Easy:

This recipe is perfect for when you’re craving pizza but don’t want to spend a ton of time in the kitchen. With a few simple ingredients, you can have these cheesy pizza sticks ready in no time.

Customizable:

Want to change things up? You can swap the pepperoni for sausage, veggies, or even bacon—anything goes! Add more cheese for an extra cheesy kick or spice things up with a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.

Kid-Friendly:

These pizza sticks are sure to be a hit with kids, making it an easy dinner or snack for picky eaters. Plus, they can help roll them up, making it a fun family activity!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make these cheesy, pepperoni-filled delights:

• Pizza Dough: The base of your pizza sticks. You can use store-bought dough for convenience, or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Pepperoni: Sliced thin, these are the star of the show! You can use regular or mini pepperoni, depending on your preference.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey, melty cheese that makes everything come together. Make sure to use whole-milk mozzarella for the best melt.
• Parmesan Cheese: A little sprinkle of Parmesan on top gives the pizza sticks a nice salty finish.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme will add that authentic Italian flavor to the dough and cheese.
• Garlic Powder: For that subtle garlic flavor that pairs perfectly with pizza.
• Marinara Sauce: For dipping! You can use store-bought or homemade sauce, depending on how much time you have.
• Olive Oil: To brush on the dough for that golden, crispy finish.
• Salt: A pinch to taste.

(Note: Exact measurements are in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s get started with making these irresistible Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. If you’re using store-bought dough, you can roll it out into an even sheet.

Step 3: Add the Cheese & Pepperoni

Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Add a layer of pepperoni slices on top of the cheese. Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese over the pepperoni and add a pinch of Italian seasoning and garlic powder for flavor.

Step 4: Roll It Up

Carefully roll the dough from one end to the other, like you would a cinnamon roll, making sure the filling stays tucked in. Seal the edges by pinching the dough together to prevent the cheese from oozing out while baking.

Step 5: Slice the Sticks

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 1-inch-wide pieces. You should have a bunch of little pizza sticks.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza Sticks

Place the pizza sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Brush the tops of each stick with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve with Marinara Sauce

Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. Serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Trust me, it takes these pizza sticks to the next level!

How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks

These pizza sticks are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or meal. Here are a few ways to serve them:

• Side Salad: Pair with a fresh, crunchy side salad to balance out all that cheesy goodness.
• Garlic Bread: For a carb-lovers dream, serve with some warm garlic bread alongside.
• Veggie Platter: For a lighter option, serve with a platter of fresh veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell peppers for dipping.

Additional Tips

• Make Them Spicy: Want a little heat? Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese or drizzle with spicy marinara sauce.
• Use Different Meats: You can swap out the pepperoni for other meats like sausage, bacon, or ham. Or, make a veggie version with mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives.
• Use Puff Pastry: For a flakier, more buttery crust, use puff pastry instead of pizza dough. It will give a fun twist to these pizza sticks.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8 (1 stick per serving)

• Calories per serving: 180
• Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 380mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 17g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Vitamin A: 4%
• Vitamin C: 2%
• Calcium: 10%
• Iron: 6%

(Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on exact measurements and ingredient substitutions.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A1: Yes! You can use provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses. Mozzarella is traditional for its meltiness, but other cheeses will add a unique flavor.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: You can prepare them, slice them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

Q3: Can I freeze these pizza sticks?
A3: Yes! After slicing them, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes.

Q4: Can I make these vegetarian?
A4: Definitely! Just omit the pepperoni and add veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives for a delicious veggie version.

Q5: Can I use gluten-free dough?
A5: Yes, gluten-free pizza dough will work perfectly if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.

Q6: Can I add sauce inside the pizza sticks?
A6: Absolutely! You can spread a thin layer of marinara sauce inside the dough before rolling it up for an extra saucy treat.

Q7: How can I make these spicy?
A7: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese or use a spicy marinara sauce for dipping.

Q8: Can I use a different type of meat instead of pepperoni?
A8: Yes, you can use cooked sausage, ham, or even crispy bacon for a different flavor. Feel free to get creative!

Q9: How do I store leftovers?
A9: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before eating.

Q10: Can I serve these with other dips?
A10: Absolutely! You can serve them with ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a cheesy dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks are everything you love about pizza, but in a fun, snackable form! They’re cheesy, savory, and totally irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, these pizza sticks are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Grab your ingredients, get rolling, and prepare for a pizza treat that’ll have everyone coming back for more!

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