This recipe for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups is one of those weeknight winners that turned my busy evenings into something a little more festive. I first made these on a rainy Saturday when my kids wanted pizza but I had only a patchy pantry and a bag of small flour tortillas. The result was unexpectedly brilliant: familiar pizza flavors wrapped into a handheld parcel, perfect for dipping and sharing. They’re crunchy at the edges, pillowy where the tortilla meets the melted cheese, and the pepperoni crisps just enough to add savory pops of flavor.

What makes these roll-ups special is how adaptable they are. I discovered that spreading the sauce thin and using a tight roll keeps everything neatly inside, while a light brush of oil and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning transforms them into a bakery-style snack. They’re ideal for casual dinners, packed lunches, game-day bites, or a simple appetizer when guests drop by. I always keep a jar of a good pizza sauce (I like Rao’s or a plain tomato-basil jar) in the pantry so I can whip these up in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• Small flour tortillas (6): Look for 6-inch soft tortillas labeled 'small' or 'soft taco' style. Mission or Guerrero brands hold up well in the oven without cracking; choose a slightly thicker tortilla for easier rolling.
• Pizza sauce (14 oz jar): A standard jar works great; Rao’s, Prego, or a basic store brand tomato-basil sauce are all fine. Use a smooth sauce for an even layer — chunky textures can tear thin tortillas.
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (24 oz): Whole-milk shredded mozzarella melts best for that stretchy texture. Sargento or Galbani are good options. You’ll have extra on hand if you love an over-the-top cheesy pull.
• Pepperoni slices (80 slices): Standard thin-cut pepperoni from the deli or pre-sliced packs. If you prefer less pork, use turkey pepperoni; for an extra crispy edge, choose a slightly thicker-cut style.
• Cooking oil (1 tbsp): Neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil for brushing; olive oil also works and adds a subtle peppery note.
• Garlic powder (1/2 tsp), Italian seasoning (1/2 tsp), garlic salt (1/2 tsp): These seasonings create a savory crust on top. Use a high-quality Italian seasoning blend for the best herb flavors.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray or oil a large baking pan to prevent sticking. Preheating is important so the cheese melts evenly and the bottoms start to set when they first go into the oven. Prepare the tortillas: Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce onto the center and spread it to a thin, even layer, leaving a 1/2-inch border near the edge to prevent overflow. Add cheese: Sprinkle roughly 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella over the sauce. A light, even layer melts faster and prevents a soggy wrap; if you like them extra cheesy use a scant 1/3 cup instead. Layer pepperoni: Place about 4 slices of pepperoni along the length of each tortilla. Overlap slightly so each bite has some pepperoni. If you prefer more meat, add a few extra slices — the recipe’s original ingredient list provides plenty of pepperoni for a generous filling. Roll tightly: Roll each tortilla firmly but gently to keep the filling contained. Tuck the edge under and place each roll seam-side down in the prepared pan so they don’t unroll during baking. Brush and season: Brush the tops lightly with cooking oil so they brown nicely. Mix the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt and sprinkle it evenly over the tops for a bright, savory finish. Bake until melty: Bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese inside is melted and the tops are lightly golden. If you prefer a crunchier exterior, increase the oven to 400°F for an additional 3–5 minutes or transfer to an air fryer at 400°F for 5–8 minutes, watching closely so they don't burn.

Storage Tips

To store, let the roll-ups cool completely on a wire rack so they don’t steam and get soggy. Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze on a baking sheet until firm (about 1 hour), then move to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F until warmed through, flipping halfway for even crisping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the pepperoni for turkey pepperoni or thinly sliced cooked sausage for different flavors. Use whole-wheat or spinach tortillas for more fiber — note that thicker tortillas take a bit longer to crisp. Replace mozzarella with a low-moisture part-skim version to reduce fat, or use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a deeper flavor. For a dairy-free option, try dairy-free shredded cheese and a compliant pepperoni alternative (or roasted vegetables).

Serving Suggestions

Serve the roll-ups with a side of warmed pizza sauce or ranch for dipping. Pair them with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For parties, cut each roll into two or three bite-sized pieces and secure with a toothpick; arrange on a platter with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a more polished presentation.

Cultural Background

These roll-ups are a playful riff on classic Italian-American flavors — they take the essentials of pizza (sauce, cheese, cured meat) and adapt them into an American convenience format using tortillas. Similar handheld adaptations exist worldwide (think stromboli or calzone), but this version is rooted in pantry-friendly improvisation and the tradition of turning beloved comfort flavors into easy-to-share snacks.

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer, add thinly sliced roasted bell peppers or fresh basil inside for brightness; in autumn, scatter in some caramelized onions and sage for warmth. Holiday gatherings welcome a festive twist — swap pepperoni for prosciutto and top with a drizzle of truffle oil after baking for an indulgent upgrade. The technique remains the same and adapts well to seasonal produce and flavors.

Meal Prep Tips

Make a double batch and freeze half for quick meals. Assemble roll-ups and freeze them unbaked on a tray, then bag them for later; bake from frozen at 375°F for 12–18 minutes until hot and golden. For packed lunches, include a small container of sauce for dipping and a crunchy side like carrot sticks. Label freezer bags with the date and reheat instructions to streamline busy mornings.

Bring these out at your next casual gathering — they’re easy to scale, simple to modify, and reliably loved by kids and adults alike. Enjoy the convenience of pizza flavors in a tidy, shareable package and make the idea your own by swapping fillings or spices to suit your pantry.