Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls

Introduction

I recently decided to try making Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls, and let me tell you, it was an absolute game changer in our household. These rolls have quickly become a beloved dish for family movie nights, game days, and even casual dinners. The blend of savory sausage, colorful peppers, and gooey cheese rolled into a warm, flaky crust had my family raving after the first bite. As I watched my kids devour them, I felt a deep sense of joy, knowing I had found a recipe that would be enjoyed for years to come. Here’s how to create these delightful rolls that are sure to impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 (10-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15-ounce) can refrigerated pizza dough
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Make the sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
5. Spread the sauce: Evenly spread the sausage and vegetable sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle the cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the sauce.
7. Roll up the dough: Starting from one of the long sides, roll up the dough tightly into a log.
8. Cut the rolls: Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces.
9. Bake the rolls: Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Serve: Serve the pizza rolls warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 230 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• With dipping sauces:
  • Marinara sauce
  • Ranch dressing
  • Garlic butter
• Accompanied by sides:
  • Fresh salad
  • Garlic bread
  • Sautéed vegetables

Additional Tips

1. Experiment with meats: Try using ground beef or turkey as a substitute for Italian sausage for a lighter option.
2. Add more veggies: Feel free to include mushrooms, spinach, or olives to boost the nutritional value and flavor.
3. Cheese variety: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for unique flavor profiles.
4. Make ahead: Prepare the rolls in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
5. Perfect golden color: Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil or an egg wash before baking for a beautiful golden finish.

Recipe Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Rolls: Replace the sausage with shredded cooked chicken and mix in buffalo sauce.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables, like zucchini and artichokes, along with a sprinkle of feta cheese.
• BBQ Chicken Rolls: Substitute Italian sausage for cooked chicken mixed with barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Spread a mixture of garlic butter and Italian herbs on the dough before adding the sauce for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with drinks:
  • A light beer or cider complements the flavors well.
  • Sparkling water with lemon makes for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
• For special occasions:
  • Serve as an appetizer at parties or potlucks.
  • Pair with a pasta dish for a hearty Italian-themed dinner.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing:
  • Allow the rolls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating:
  • Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Storage:
  • Store any leftover rolls in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
   • Yes, just skip the cooking step and crumble it into the sauce directly.
2. Is it possible to make these rolls gluten-free?
   • Absolutely! Use gluten-free pizza dough and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
3. Can I prepare the rolls in advance?
   • Yes, you can prepare and assemble the rolls, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
4. What dipping sauces pair well with these rolls?
   • Marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or even a spicy aioli work well.
5. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
   • They should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
6. Can I add more cheese?
   • Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle additional cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
7. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
8. Can I use homemade sauce?
   • Yes, homemade marinara or any sauce of your choice will work perfectly.
9. How do I get the perfect roll shape?
   • Make sure to roll the dough tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
10. Are there vegetarian options?
    • Yes, simply replace the sausage with your choice of vegetables and add cheese.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls are not just a meal; they’re a delightful experience that brings families together. With their easy preparation, delicious flavors, and versatile nature, they can suit any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. I hope you and your loved ones enjoy these pizza rolls as much as my family does. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out some variations, these rolls are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!

Print