If you’re hunting for the ultimate warm, gooey, and crowd-pleasing snack, look no further than Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks. Each bite wraps up classic pizza flavors—oozy mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, golden crust, and a dusting of Parmesan—into a hand-held treat that’s easy to make and even easier to devour. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or just craving a cozy homemade snack, these pizza sticks deliver the nostalgia of your favorite pizzeria with a playful twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks is how simple yet transformative these ingredients are. Each one plays a starring role in creating a snack that’s melty, savory, and full of bold flavors, all without requiring a trip to a specialty store.
- Refrigerated Pizza Dough: The perfect shortcut for a tender, chewy, golden crust—choose a classic or thin style based on your preference.
- Mozzarella String Cheese Sticks (halved): These keep things neat and ensure that each pizza stick has that iconic, stretchy cheese-pull center.
- Pepperoni Slices: Brings salty, spicy depth and unbeatable pizza essence in every mouthful.
- Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps the seasonings and Parmesan adhere for an irresistible finish.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses the sticks with classic pizzeria aroma and just the right punch of garlic.
- Italian Seasoning: Lends a savory, herby note that ties all the flavors together.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, salty crust that bakes to golden perfection.
- Marinara or Pizza Sauce for Dipping: Essential for that tangy, tomatoey burst—it’s like the cherry on top of your pizza stick sundae.
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple prep ensures your Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks will bake evenly and release easily, keeping them picture-perfect.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Unroll the can of pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. Cut it into 12 equal rectangles—you can use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife for nice, clean edges. These rectangles will form the outer blanket that hugs all the cheesy, pepperoni goodness inside each pizza stick.
Step 3: Fill and Roll
For each rectangle, lay 2 slices of pepperoni and half of a mozzarella stick near one end. Start with the filling close to one edge so you can easily roll them up. Roll each piece tightly, pinching the edges all around to lock in the melted cheese and prevent any deliciousness from escaping as they bake.
Step 4: Add Flavored Butter and Parmesan
Arrange the rolled-up pizza sticks seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush this beautifully fragrant mixture over the tops of your pizza sticks, then sprinkle each one generously with grated Parmesan. This step infuses the whole batch with big pizza shop flavor and gives them a gorgeous, golden finish.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks are puffed up, deeply golden, and you see melty cheese peeking out. Let them cool just for a minute so you don’t burn your tongue, and then serve warm—perfect for dunking in marinara sauce.
How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks
Garnishes
A final flourish can transform Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks from a simple snack into a showstopper. Try a scatter of extra grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for vibrant color, or a touch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like things spicy.
Side Dishes
Pair these pizza sticks with a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies for balance, or serve as part of a game-day spread with other finger foods like wings, fries, or fresh-cut veggies and dip. They’re also fantastic with a side of Caesar salad when you want to make it a casual meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile them into a basket lined with a checkered napkin for retro pizzeria vibes, or arrange them in a ring on a platter with a bowl of warm marinara in the middle for easy sharing. Mini dipping sauces in shot glasses make for a playful, party-friendly spread that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks left after your snack session, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
For longer storage, assemble the pizza sticks up to the baking step, then freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and can be baked straight from the freezer when you get that sudden pizza stick craving.
Reheating
To reheat, pop refrigerated (or frozen) Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks onto a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven until hot and crisp. This keeps the crust crunchy and the cheese deliciously melty—just like fresh-baked.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks?
Absolutely! While mozzarella gives you that classic stretchy, gooey effect, feel free to try cheddar, provolone, or even a mix for a fun twist. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for the best results.
Do I have to use store-bought pizza dough?
Not at all. If you have a favorite homemade pizza dough recipe, go ahead and use it! Store-bought dough just shaves off some prep time and ensures consistent results, but homemade adds a personal touch if you’re in the mood.
How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?
The key is to pinch the dough edges tightly and place the sticks seam-side down when baking. Even a little leak is still tasty, but sealing them well gives you that perfect, cheese-filled center every time.
What dips go well with Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks?
Marinara or classic pizza sauce are always winners, but try ranch dressing, garlic butter, or a spicy buffalo dip for something different. It’s a fun way to mix things up if you’re serving a crowd.
Are Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks kid friendly?
Definitely! They’re a playful, easy-to-eat finger food, and you can even get kids involved in assembling them. Just watch out for hot cheese right out of the oven—let them cool slightly before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow your family or friends with a cheesy, crave-worthy snack that brings the spirit of pizza night to any occasion, you’ve got to try these Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks. They’re quick, fun, and guaranteed to disappear fast—happy snacking!
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Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 pizza sticks 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks are a delicious twist on traditional pizza. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer, these stuffed breadsticks are filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni, all wrapped in a buttery, garlic-infused crust.
Ingredients
Pizza Sticks:
- 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 6 mozzarella string cheese sticks (halved)
- 24 slices pepperoni
Seasoned Butter:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- Marinara or pizza sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Assemble: Unroll the pizza dough and cut it into 12 equal rectangles. Place 2 slices of pepperoni and half a mozzarella stick near one end of each rectangle. Roll up tightly, pinching the edges to seal.
- Season and Bake: Place the pizza sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Mix melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Brush the tops of the sticks with the seasoned butter, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, then serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or swap in spicy pepperoni.
- These can also be made ahead and frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
