If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing snack that effortlessly blends sweet, savory, and cheesy goodness, this Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Imagine soft, pillowy Hawaiian rolls stuffed with zesty pepperoni and melty mozzarella, all crowned with a buttery, garlicky Italian seasoning glaze and a sprinkle of parmesan. It’s like pizza and sliders had the best baby ever. Whether you’re gearing up for game day, a potluck, or just a cozy night at home, these rolls are guaranteed to vanish fast and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each bring their own magic. From the fluffy sweet rolls to the sharp punch of pepperoni and the gooey melt of mozzarella, every component is crucial to achieving that irresistible flavor and texture balance.
- Hawaiian Rolls: Their soft, slightly sweet base contrasts perfectly with savory toppings.
- Pepperoni slices: Adds that classic pizza spice and bold meaty crunch.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully between the rolls, giving luscious creaminess.
- Butter (melted): Brushed on top for a golden finish and rich base for seasonings.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that enhances the overall pizza vibe.
- Garlic powder: Gives a savory depth and aromatic punch without overpowering.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty crust that crisps up nicely.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your rolls bake evenly and prevents sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cut the Cheese
Cut six slices of mozzarella cheese into eight smaller pieces each. These bite-sized portions will fit perfectly inside each roll, ensuring every layer is cheesy but not overwhelming.
Step 3: Slice the Rolls Carefully
Gently separate the Hawaiian rolls into individual buns. Now, here’s a fun trick: make two cuts down each roll, cutting about two-thirds of the way through but not slicing all the way. This creates handy little slits that will hold your goodies without falling apart.
Step 4: Fill with Pepperoni and Cheese
Stuff each roll slit with three pepperoni slices and arrange four pieces of mozzarella on either side of the pepperoni. It’s all about layering flavors and textures—pepperoni’s spice, gooey cheese, and the sweet bread hug.
Step 5: Arrange Rolls on the Baking Sheet
Place your stuffed rolls on the parchment-lined baking sheet to prepare for their golden transformation. Leaving a little space allows the heat to circulate and melt the cheese perfectly.
Step 6: Add the Butter and Seasoning Glaze
Mix melted butter with Italian seasoning and garlic powder, then brush this flavorful blend all over the tops of your rolls. Finish by sprinkling grated parmesan over each one, giving a savory crust when baked.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your rolls for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cheese inside has melted and the tops are slightly golden. The aroma in your kitchen will be pure happiness condensed into a scent.
How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For a final beautiful touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes over your baked rolls. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness or heat, depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a crisp green salad or some crunchy celery sticks for contrast. A simple marinara dipping sauce on the side amps up the pizza vibes and makes dunking a delightful part of the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls Recipe on a wooden platter with little bowls of ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or even honey mustard. This gives guests options and transforms a simple snack into a fun interactive appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be aware the rolls may soften slightly but still retain good flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap each individual roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. These can be frozen for up to two months without losing much freshness.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap and place rolls on a baking sheet, then warm them up in a 350ºF oven for about 8-10 minutes. This brings back their gooey, warm charm without drying out the rolls.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for that stretchy melt, you can experiment with provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses to add a different flavor profile.
Are these rolls gluten-free?
Traditional Hawaiian rolls contain gluten, so if you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free dinner rolls and follow the rest of the recipe as written.
Is it possible to make these vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the pepperoni and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers to keep a savory, satisfying filling.
Can I prepare these ahead of time before baking?
You sure can. Assemble the rolls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a minute or two to the baking time if baking cold rolls.
How spicy are these rolls?
They have a mild spice level thanks to the pepperoni. If you want more heat, add a dash of crushed red pepper or include spicy pepperoni varieties.
Final Thoughts
This Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is a delightful mix of sweet, savory, cheesy, and buttery that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or simply treating yourself to a little comfort food magic. I hope you give this recipe a try and that it becomes a cherished staple in your recipe collection just like it is in mine.
Print
Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls combine the sweet, soft texture of Hawaiian rolls with savory pepperoni and melted mozzarella cheese, topped with a flavorful garlic butter and parmesan crust. Perfect as a party appetizer or snack, these cheesy, seasoned rolls bake quickly to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Rolls and Fillings
- 1 (12-ct) package Hawaiian Rolls
- 72 slices pepperoni
- 6 slices mozzarella cheese
Butter Topping
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
- Prepare cheese: Cut the mozzarella cheese slices into 8 small pieces each, to fit inside the rolls along with the pepperoni.
- Cut rolls: Separate the Hawaiian rolls into individual buns. Make two vertical cuts about two-thirds of the way down each roll, forming slits for fillings without cutting through the bottom.
- Stuff rolls: Insert 3 slices of pepperoni into each slit. Place mozzarella cheese pieces on each side of the pepperoni slits, using a total of four cheese pieces per roll for a melty, cheesy filling.
- Arrange on pan: Place the stuffed rolls on the prepared baking sheet or dish lined with parchment paper, spacing them so they can heat evenly.
- Brush with butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the tops of the rolls, then sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese for a savory crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the tops of the rolls turn golden and fragrant.
Notes
- Do not cut the rolls all the way through to keep the fillings secure inside.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Serve warm for the best taste and melty cheese experience.
- These rolls can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
