If you love the irresistible combo of pizza and gooey cheese, then you are in for a treat with this Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe. Imagine crispy, golden dough wrapped around melty mozzarella sticks and savory pepperoni, finished with a sprinkle of Italian herbs and parmesan. This snack has everything—texture, flavor, and that comforting pizza spirit—all baked or fried to perfection. Whether for a cozy night in or to impress friends at a party, these sticks hit all the right notes and bring pure joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe plays a beautifully distinct role, from the stretchy mozzarella that oozes with warmth, to the fragrant seasoning and crisp dough that tie it all together. These simple but essential ingredients come together to make something truly special.
- Mozzarella Sticks (8 pieces): The creamy, melty center that makes these irresistible.
- Pepperoni Slices (16 slices): Adds a smoky, savory kick and wonderful texture contrast.
- Pizza Dough or Crescent Roll Dough (1 sheet): Provides the golden, flaky wrapping that holds everything snug.
- Pizza Sauce (½ cup): Brushed inside and served on the side for vibrant tomato flavor.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Gives the final crispiness and a lustrous golden finish.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): Boosts aroma and adds subtle savory depth.
- Italian Seasoning (½ teaspoon): Brings classic herbaceous flair that complements the pepperoni perfectly.
- Parmesan Cheese (2 tablespoons): Sprinkled on top for salty, nutty goodness and a little crunch.
- Egg (beaten) (1): Used to seal the dough and create a beautiful golden sheen when baked.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven or Fryer
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking, or heat your oil to 350°F (175°C) if you prefer frying. Getting the temperature just right ensures that your mozzarella sticks develop that stunning golden crust while keeping the cheese perfectly melted inside.
Step 2: Cut the Dough into Strips
Roll out your pizza or crescent roll dough into a flat sheet and cut it into strips wide enough to fully wrap around your mozzarella sticks. This forms the sturdy but tender casing that holds all the delicious fillings inside and crisps up beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Sticks
Layer two slices of pepperoni on each dough strip before placing one mozzarella stick on top. Brush the dough with some of the pizza sauce to intensify flavor, then roll it up tightly to seal all those tasty ingredients in there. This part is key to keeping the filling locked in while baking or frying.
Step 4: Seal and Brush with Egg Wash
Dip your finger in the beaten egg and run it along the dough edges to seal the rolls completely. Then brush the tops generously with egg wash to give your mozzarella sticks that gorgeous golden shine and help that crunch form during cooking.
Step 5: Cook Until Perfect
Place your prepared sticks on a baking sheet and bake them in the heated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, fry them in preheated oil until crisp and bubbling. Both methods create a delectable texture contrast with gooey interiors.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Once cooked, brush your sticks with olive oil, then sprinkle on garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese. This final flourish unleashes a punch of aroma and flavor that elevates the whole Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe to a spectacular level.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
The best way to enjoy these beauties is warm, straight from the oven or fryer, ideally paired with extra pizza sauce or some garlic butter for dipping. Each bite bursts with gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and the herbal richness of the toppings. It’s hard not to smile!
How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or chopped parsley not only adds a pop of green color but also introduces a fresh contrast that brightens the richness of the pepperoni and cheese. You can also drizzle a little balsamic glaze for an unexpected tangy twist that works surprisingly well.
Side Dishes
Serve these mozzarella sticks alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Garlic roasted vegetables or a light tomato soup can also make delightful companions, turning the snack into a satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange these sticks standing upright in a tall glass with toothpicks for easy grab-and-go snacking. Alternatively, you can cut them in half diagonally to showcase the cheesy center and serve them on a wooden board with a trio of dipping sauces like ranch, spicy marinara, and pesto mayo for variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though that’s rare!), place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They will keep their flavor and texture nicely for up to two days, perfect for a quick snack or easy lunch.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but uncooked pepperoni pizza mozzarella sticks by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. This way, you can bake or fry them straight from frozen whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat leftover sticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes to bring back that crispy crust and gooey center. Avoid microwaving as it may make the dough soggy and the cheese less melty.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella gives you that classic stretch and melt, you can try provolone or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for added flavor. Just be mindful of melting properties to keep that perfect gooey center.
Is it necessary to use pizza dough, or can crescent roll dough work?
Crescent roll dough is actually a fantastic alternative, offering a lighter, flakier texture. Both work well; just choose based on whether you want a breadier or a more delicate crust.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the pepperoni and add sliced mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or spinach for an equally delicious twist. The seasoning and cheese ensure plenty of flavor even without meat.
What dipping sauces pair best with Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe?
Classic pizza sauce is always a winner, but ranch, garlic butter, or even a spicy marinara add exciting variety and complement the rich, cheesy filling wonderfully.
Can I bake and then freeze the finished mozzarella sticks?
It’s best to freeze them before cooking to maintain freshness and texture. Baking, freezing, and reheating can sometimes make the crust less crispy and the cheese separate a little.
Final Thoughts
This Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe is one of those magical little creations that bring people together with its comforting flavors and fun, shareable nature. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re such a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, roll up that dough, sprinkle on the herbs, and get ready to enjoy bites of cheesy, pepperoni-packed goodness that feel like a warm hug on a plate.
Print
Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 mozzarella sticks
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks are a deliciously cheesy and savory appetizer featuring gooey mozzarella sticks wrapped in crispy pizza dough with layers of smoky pepperoni. Finished with garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan, they make a perfect snack perfect for parties or game day.
Ingredients
Mozzarella Sticks
- 8 mozzarella sticks
Meat
- 16 pepperoni slices
Dough
- 1 sheet pizza dough or crescent roll dough
Sauces and Oils
- ½ cup pizza sauce (for brushing and dipping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheese and Egg
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven or fryer: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a fryer to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking or frying the mozzarella sticks.
- Prepare dough strips: Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into strips large enough to wrap around the mozzarella sticks securely.
- Assemble the sticks: On each strip of dough, layer two slices of pepperoni, place one mozzarella stick on top, brush with pizza sauce, and then roll tightly to enclose the filling.
- Seal and glaze: Use the beaten egg to seal the edges of each roll and brush the tops. This helps create a golden sheen when cooked.
- Cook: Bake the rolled sticks in the oven for 12–15 minutes until golden brown, or alternatively, fry them in hot oil until crisp and golden.
- Season and finish: After cooking, brush the hot mozzarella sticks with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese to enhance flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve warm with additional pizza sauce or garlic butter on the side for dipping and enjoying these cheesy treats.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can double fry the mozzarella sticks if frying method is chosen.
- Make sure to seal the edges tightly with egg wash to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
- These can be prepared ahead and frozen before cooking; bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cook time.
- Substitute with gluten-free dough if you need a gluten-free version.
- Pair with your favorite marinara or garlic dipping sauce for best results.
