Get ready to fall in love with a snack that brings together the gooey, melty goodness of mozzarella cheese and the spicy, savory zest of pepperoni wrapped up in golden, crispy pizza dough. This Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe is not just an appetizer; it’s a party on your plate with every bite delivering that perfect blend of chew and crunch. Whether you’re craving a fun game day treat or a kid-friendly snack that adults will adore too, these mozzarella sticks reinvent the classic pizza flavor in an irresistible handheld form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is key to making this Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe effortless and full of flavor. Each ingredient plays its own special role to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that will make these sticks stand out.
- Mozzarella string cheese sticks: These are the melty, cheesy heart of your snack—choose good quality for the best pull.
- Pepperoni slices: Adds spice and that authentic pizza flair with each roll-up.
- Refrigerated or homemade pizza dough: A sturdy but tender wrap that crisps up beautifully when baked.
- Egg, beaten (for egg wash): Helps the dough brown perfectly and develop a gorgeous sheen.
- Italian seasoning: Brings that classic Mediterranean herb flavor to brighten every bite.
- Garlic powder: Lends a savory depth that complements the cheese and pepperoni.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty finish and extra golden goodness on top.
- Optional: marinara sauce: For dipping, because what’s pizza without a tangy tomato partner?
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Setup
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This sets the stage for perfectly crisped mozzarella sticks in the oven.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Dough
Lightly flour your surface and roll out the pizza dough into a thin rectangle. Cutting it into 12 equal, 1-inch-wide strips guarantees that each mozzarella stick will be perfectly sized and wrapped.
Step 3: Layer Pepperoni and Cheese
On each dough strip, place one slice of pepperoni followed by a mozzarella stick. These layers are the flavor foundation, making sure every bite bursts with classic pizza character.
Step 4: Roll and Seal
Roll each strip tightly around the mozzarella and pepperoni, pinching the edges firmly to seal the cheese inside. This step keeps the cheese from leaking out during baking and locks in all the deliciousness.
Step 5: Add Seasoning and Bake
Brush the sticks with beaten egg wash for that irresistible golden brown finish. Then sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan on top to enhance the layers of flavor. Bake the sticks for 12 to 15 minutes until the dough is golden and the cheese just begins to melt inside.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks cool for 2–3 minutes so you can enjoy gooey cheese without the burn. Serve warm, ideally with a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, bringing a refreshing tang to balance the richness.
How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or oregano on top for a burst of color and herbaceous aroma. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can add an elegant touch for grown-up palates.
Side Dishes
Pair these cheesy delights with fresh green salads, crunchy celery sticks, or even a simple cup of tomato soup to round out your meal without overwhelming the intense flavors of the sticks.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the sticks in a spiral or star shape on a large platter with ramekins of marinara, ranch dressing, or pesto scattered around. For parties, serve them on skewers or mini cutting boards for a rustic, fun feel that will impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the dough from drying out while preserving the gooey cheese inside.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked sticks by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure thorough cooking.
Reheating
For crispy reheating, pop the sticks in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes or reheat in an air fryer until warm and crunchy. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crisp crust intact and avoid rubbery cheese.
FAQs
Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of string cheese?
While shredded mozzarella works, string cheese offers the perfect stick shape which makes rolling easier and ensures an even melt, so it’s preferred for this recipe.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the familiar flavors of pepperoni and cheese, and the handheld sticks make it fun and easy for little hands.
What’s the best dough to use?
Refrigerated pizza dough is convenient and works great, but homemade dough can add an impressive touch if you have extra time. Just make sure it’s rolled thin for the best texture.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the pepperoni or substitute with veggie pepperoni alternatives to keep that smoky flavor without meat.
How do I make these extra crispy?
Baking on a preheated baking stone or using an air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes enhances crispiness and texture dramatically.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a snack that’s equal parts comforting and exciting, you simply must try this Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe. It’s perfect for sharing, quick to make, and utterly delicious, promising smiles with every bite. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a favorite go-to for game nights, family snacks, or whenever you’re craving a slice of pizza in a fun new form.
Print
Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 sticks 1x
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks are a delicious twist on the classic mozzarella stick, wrapped in pizza dough with pepperoni and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a kid-friendly appetizer or snack, they’re crispy on the outside with gooey, melty cheese inside, complemented by Italian seasonings and a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 12 slices pepperoni
- 1 sheet refrigerated or homemade pizza dough
Seasonings & Coating
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Optional
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a thin rectangle to make it easier to wrap around the cheese and pepperoni.
- Cut Strips: Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal strips, about 1 inch wide each, so each mozzarella stick will be individually wrapped.
- Assemble Sticks: Place one slice of pepperoni on each strip, then add one mozzarella string cheese stick. Roll the dough strip tightly around the cheese and pepperoni, pinching the edges well to seal the cheese inside and prevent leakage while baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Arrange the rolled sticks seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brush each stick with the beaten egg wash to help the toppings stick and encourage browning.
- Season: Sprinkle the sticks evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and a nice crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese inside begins to melt, indicating they are hot and ready.
- Cool and Serve: Let the sticks cool for 2–3 minutes after baking to avoid burning, then serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
Notes
- For extra crispy sticks, bake them on a preheated baking stone or alternatively air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
- You can substitute mini pepperoni or turkey pepperoni for a variation in flavor and size.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
