Vegan Pizza Rolls

Introduction

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a warm, cheesy, and flavorful snack. These Vegan Pizza Rolls have become a household favorite for my family, offering the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence without any animal products. We often whip them up for movie nights, game days, or just when we crave something deliciously cheesy. The best part? They’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Here’s how to create this delectable treat.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 4 ounces vegan sausage crumbles
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 6 ounces vegan mozzarella shreds
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh minced basil
• Flour, for dusting
• 16 ounces vegan-friendly crescent roll sheets
• 4 tablespoons vegan butter, melted
• 1/2 cup shredded vegan parmesan cheese
• Fresh flat leaf parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Cook Sausage

1. Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat.
2. Cook the vegan sausage according to package directions. Season with Italian seasoning and continue to cook until heated through.
3. Transfer the cooked sausage to a large bowl.

Combine Filling

4. Toss the sausage crumbles with the vegan mozzarella shreds, marinara sauce, and fresh basil. Adjust seasonings if needed for personal taste.

Prepare Ice Cube Tray

5. Spray an ice cube tray with cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Roll Out Dough

6. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the crescent roll sheets, being careful not to separate the dough pieces.

Fill Ice Cube Tray

7. Place one sheet of dough onto the ice cube tray, ensuring the entire tray is covered. Gently press the dough down into each hole.
8. Fill each hole with about 1 tablespoon of the sausage mixture.
9. Cover with the second sheet of crescent dough and seal the edges to prevent the filling from leaking out.

Freeze

10. Place the tray in the freezer for 1 hour to allow the rolls to firm up.

Preheat Oven

11. Preheat your oven to 375°F (180°C).

Bake

12. Flip the dough onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and cut and separate the bites.
13. Brush the rolls with melted vegan butter and sprinkle with shredded vegan parmesan cheese.
14. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown and crispy, approximately 15-20 minutes. If desired, broil for the last 5-6 minutes for extra crispiness.

Serve

15. Garnish with fresh minced parsley and serve immediately with additional marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: 180 (approx.)
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Preparation Time

• Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (including freezing)
• Active time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• With Dipping Sauce: Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
• As an Appetizer: Perfect for parties or gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
2. Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the sausage mixture for a kick.
3. Make Ahead: Prepare and freeze the rolls ahead of time, then bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crescent roll sheets for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
5. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Pesto Rolls: Substitute marinara sauce with pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Buffalo Style: Add buffalo sauce to the filling for a spicy version, perfect for game day.
• Mexican Twist: Use taco-seasoned vegan crumbles and add black beans and corn to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these rolls with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside a variety of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy sriracha.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: After shaping the rolls, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular sausage instead of vegan sausage?

• Yes, but this will no longer be a vegan recipe.

1. What can I substitute for vegan mozzarella?

• You can use any non-dairy cheese shreds or leave it out entirely for a lighter option.

1. How long can I store leftover pizza rolls?

• They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Can I make these pizza rolls gluten-free?

• Yes, just use gluten-free crescent roll sheets.

1. Can I bake these without freezing first?

• Yes, but freezing helps them hold their shape better during baking.

1. What kind of marinara sauce is best?

• Choose your favorite store-bought brand or make a quick homemade version.

1. Can I use a different herb instead of basil?

• Yes, oregano or parsley can work as alternatives.

1. What if I can’t find crescent roll sheets?

• You can use pizza dough or puff pastry as an alternative.

1. How do I know when they are done baking?

• They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

1. Can I make these pizza rolls in advance?
   • Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Vegan Pizza Rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. With their cheesy filling and flaky exterior, they are sure to impress everyone at the table—vegan or not! Next time you’re in the mood for a comforting treat, give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful taste of homemade goodness. Your family and friends will thank you!

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