Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls Recipe

If you are craving a warm, comforting snack that combines the rich flavors of savory sausage and melty cheese wrapped in soft, golden dough, then you are going to love this Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls Recipe. This dish is essentially a handheld pizza masterpiece, packed with Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a luscious tomato sauce all rolled into one irresistible bite. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a casual dinner, these pizza rolls offer a delightful twist on traditional pizza with the ease of finger food. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just looking for a crowd-pleasing treat, this recipe is a sure-fire winner that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet incredibly flavorful, each playing a crucial part in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color in your Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls Recipe.

• 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled: The star protein with bold, spicy flavors to give your rolls that authentic Italian punch.
• 1/2 cup chopped onion: Provides sweetness and a slight crunch when sautéed, balancing the sausage’s richness.
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper: Adds freshness and a subtle earthiness to the filling.
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper: Brings a pop of color and a touch of sweetness to brighten the dish.
• 1 (10-ounce) can tomato sauce: Creates the saucy base with vibrant tomato flavor.
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato essence.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, peppery nuance to complement the oregano.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors in the filling.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A mild kick that rounds out the seasoning.
• 1 (15-ounce) can refrigerated pizza dough: Soft, easy-to-handle base for rolling your delicious ingredients.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy pull everyone loves.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty finish atop the cheese blend.

How to Make Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbled. This step is key to bringing out the sausage’s rich flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep your rolls from being too oily.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook them together until the veggies soften and mingle beautifully with the sausage, about 5 minutes. This layering of flavors and textures is essential for a perfectly balanced filling.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and tomato paste, then sprinkle in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to thicken and intensify the flavors. This sauce binds the filling and keeps every bite juicy and flavorful.

Step 4: Prepare the Dough

Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12 by 18 inches. Having an even thickness here will help your rolls cook uniformly and hold together when sliced.

Step 5: Spread the Sauce

Evenly spread the sausage and veggie sauce over the rolled-out dough, making sure to leave about a 1-inch border around the edges to seal the rolls later. This step ensures the filling is well-distributed and delicious from corner to corner.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the sauce. The cheese is critical for that gooey, melty goodness once baked and adds a delightful richness that rounds out each roll.

Step 7: Roll It Up

Starting from one of the long sides, roll the dough tightly but gently, so you get a compact log without squeezing out the filling. This tight roll helps keep all the tasty ingredients together while baking and makes slicing easier.

Step 8: Slice into Rolls

Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces. These individual rolls make for perfect finger food, so try to keep them uniform in size for even baking and an attractive presentation.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the pizza rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and your kitchen smells amazing. This golden crust seals in all the juicy goodness inside.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Remove from the oven and allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving warm. These Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls taste best fresh out of the oven but can also be enjoyed as a delicious snack anytime.

How to Serve Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like chopped basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving can elevate the visual appeal and flavor profile. A drizzle of marinara or a dollop of garlic-infused olive oil also adds an exciting touch.

Side Dishes

Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls pair beautifully with crisp Caesar salad or a refreshing arugula salad to add balance through fresh greens and acidity. You could also serve them alongside a bowl of warm soup for a complete, hearty meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party presentation, arrange the pizza rolls standing upright on a platter and provide a selection of dipping sauces like spicy arrabbiata, ranch, or even a creamy garlic dip. Wrapping individual rolls in decorative parchment paper makes them easy to grab and eat at casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pizza rolls, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating them properly ensures they stay moist and flavorful without becoming dry or tough.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked pizza rolls by placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method lets you have delicious Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls ready to bake anytime with minimal prep.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the dough soggy and the cheese rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought sausage instead of fresh Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or store-bought Italian sausage works well; just make sure to crumble and heat it thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients.

Is it possible to make these pizza rolls gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the regular pizza dough with a gluten-free pizza dough alternative, you can enjoy this recipe without gluten. Texture might vary slightly, but the flavors remain amazing.

What dipping sauce pairs best with Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls Recipe?

Classic marinara is always a hit, but ranch dressing, garlic butter sauce, or even a spicy honey mustard can beautifully complement the sausage and cheese.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Definitely! Making the sausage and vegetable sauce ahead of time saves prep during assembly. Just cool it completely and refrigerate until ready to use.

How do I make the rolls extra crispy?

Brushing the outside of the rolled dough with a little olive oil or melted butter before baking helps develop a golden, crispy crust every time.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Sausage Pizza Rolls Recipe is such a gem when you want a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Every bite bursts with hearty sausage, vibrant veggies, and creamy cheese all wrapped in soft, golden dough. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these fantastic pizza rolls with your loved ones as much as I do!

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