
Forget frozen pizza bites This air fryer pizza rolls recipe delivers pillowy dough packed with gooey cheese and zesty pepperoni all in under fifteen minutes It is our go to for movie nights and quick snacks and every batch disappears as soon as it hits the table
The air fryer keeps everything neat and easy and the kids love helping stuff and seal each roll My daughter claims they are the best after school snack ever and I agree
What You'll Need
- Pizza dough: Choose fresh or refrigerated for quick prep or make homemade for a rustic touch Look for dough that springs back when pressed
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic pizza pull Whole milk mozzarella adds richness
- Pepperoni slices: Gives every bite a pop of flavor Opt for thick cut for bolder taste or turkey pepperoni for a lighter version
- Marinara sauce: For dipping Adds tang and moisture Choose a sauce with no sugar added for a fresher flavor
- Italian seasoning: Blends herbs like oregano and basil to mimic pizzeria flavor Buy from a brand you trust or make your own for max freshness
- Pinch of salt: Heightens all the savory notes Try flaky salt for a touch of crunch
- Olive oil: For spraying Creates a crisp crust without heavy frying Use extra virgin for best taste and health benefits
How to Make It Happen
- Prepare the Dough:
- Let your pizza dough sit at room temperature for twenty minutes if using store bought so it is easier to handle If homemade give it a few extra minutes to fully relax before rolling
- Shape the Squares:
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until you reach your desired thickness Usually about half an inch works well Cut into even three by three inch squares so every roll has the same amount of filling
- Fill Each Square:
- Add about a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella and a few pepperoni slices to the center of each dough square Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and a little salt to deepen flavor Do not overfill to keep them easy to seal
- Seal and Crimp:
- Fold the dough corners over the filling and pinch the edges to create a tight seal If they do not stick dampen the edges with a bit of water Crimp so nothing leaks as they cook
- Preheat and Prep the Basket:
- Set your air fryer to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and heat for five minutes Spray the basket lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking
- Arrange and Cook:
- Place the rolls in a single layer in the basket leaving space for air to circulate Give the tops a quick olive oil spray Air fry for eight to ten minutes shaking the basket halfway through Look for golden brown dough and melted cheese inside
- Serve with Sauce:
- Let rolls cool for a few minutes before serving with a side of warm marinara The cheese will be bubbly and the crust crisp

My favorite part is sneaking a little extra cheese into a few rolls as a surprise Sometimes the kitchen fills with laughter when we look for the cheesiest one to split
Keeping It Fresh
Always serve these hot from the air fryer for maximum crispiness If you need to hold them for a crowd keep them in a warm oven uncovered so the dough does not soften You can prep the rolls ahead up to step four then refrigerate and cook fresh for guests
Smart Swaps and Substitutions
Switch out pepperoni for chopped bell peppers mushrooms or even cooked sausage to suit your cravings If you are dairy free use a mozzarella style alternative and double check the marinara is free of cheese or cream I often make a spinach and feta version with a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra zing
Perfect Pairings
A small side salad adds a fresh crunch and color Choose a tangy vinaigrette to balance the melty cheese Or try serving with a trio of dips like ranch garlic butter and pesto to mix things up

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser and easy to adapt for any gathering Once you try them you will not want to go back to frozen pizza snacks
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use homemade dough?
Yes, homemade dough works well. Let it rest at room temperature before rolling out and cutting into squares.
- → What other fillings can I use?
Try adding cooked sausage, chopped vegetables, or different cheeses for variety. Customize to taste.
- → How do I prevent rolls from opening?
Ensure edges are tightly sealed by pinching and crimping the dough before air frying to avoid leaks.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate until ready to air fry. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for best texture.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Marinara is classic, but ranch, garlic butter, or spicy tomato sauce are also delicious with pizza rolls.