Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer, this cheesy pull-apart dinner roll recipe is perfect for you. Combining the comforting flavors of pizza with the warm, fluffy texture of bread rolls, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. With simple ingredients and an easy assembly process, you’ll be able to whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
24 frozen unbaked dinner rolls (such as Rhodes)
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage
1/2 cup diced bell peppers
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Non-stick cooking spray
Prep Time
3-5 hours (for thawing and rising)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 4-6 hours (including prep)
Yield: Serves 8-12 people
Enjoy these delightful pizza pull-apart rolls, perfect for parties, game days, or as a comforting weeknight treat!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Thaw and Let Rolls Rise
Place the frozen dinner rolls evenly in the prepared baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let them thaw and rise at room temperature until doubled in size, about 3-5 hours.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Uncover the Rolls
Once the rolls have risen, remove the plastic wrap.
Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the olive oil over the rolls and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Spread Marinara Sauce
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the rolls.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
Distribute Toppings
Evenly distribute the pepperoni slices, crumbled Italian sausage, diced bell peppers, and sliced black olives over the cheese.
Bake the Dish
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rolls are golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy the Rolls
Serve warm, allowing guests to pull apart individual rolls.
Notes
Rolls Rising Time
Ensure that the rolls are given enough time to rise to achieve the best texture.
Oven Temperature
Keep an eye on the rolls while baking, as oven temperatures can vary, which might affect baking time.
Variations
Feel free to substitute or add additional toppings based on personal preference, such as mushrooms or different types of cheese.
Cook techniques
Thawing and Rising Rolls
To ensure the dinner rolls are soft and fluffy, allow them to thaw and rise at room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out, and let them double in size for optimal texture.
Even Distribution
When layering ingredients, ensure an even distribution of marinara sauce, cheese, and toppings. This guarantees that every roll is flavorful and provides a consistent taste throughout the dish.
Baking for Perfect Texture
Bake the rolls until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This helps to achieve a crusty exterior while keeping the interior soft and gooey.
Cooling Before Serving
Let the dish cool slightly after baking. This makes it easier to pull apart the rolls without the toppings sliding off, ensuring a better presentation when serving.
FAQ
Can I use fresh dinner rolls instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh dinner rolls can be used but adjust the preparation time accordingly since they won’t require thawing.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
You can use other melting cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or a blend, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor profile.
How do I make the dish spicier?
Consider adding jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or spicy sausage to increase the heat level of the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Allow extra baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to get creative by adding mushrooms, onions, or different types of meats like chicken or bacon for variety.
Conclusion
This deliciously cheesy dish featuring frozen dinner rolls is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and zesty Italian sausage come together, creating a delightful pull-apart meal that is sure to please a crowd. Serve it as an appetizer at parties or as a fun main dish for family dinners.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Delight
Replace the pepperoni and sausage with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and artichoke hearts for a hearty vegetarian option.
Barbecue Chicken Rolls
Substitute marinara sauce with barbecue sauce and top with shredded cooked chicken, red onion, and cilantro for a smoky twist.
Buffalo Chicken Rolls
Use shredded buffalo chicken and drizzle with ranch dressing before baking for a spicy flavor that pairs well with the cheesy goodness.
Breakfast Rolls
Fill the rolls with scrambled eggs, diced ham, and cheese for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Mexican Fiesta
Use taco seasoning and top with seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and a blend of Mexican cheeses for a southwest-inspired roll.
Pesto Veggie Rolls
Spread pesto over the dough and top with sundried tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella for a Mediterranean flair.
Caprese Rolls
Layer fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze for a fresh and flavorful Italian-inspired dish.
