Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Name: Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated pizza dough; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Published: June 23, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious bites in no time.
Savory Flavor: Each bite is filled with rich mozzarella and zesty pepperoni that will satisfy your cravings.
Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as an appetizer at gatherings; they fit any occasion.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love to help make these pizza bombs, making it a fun family activity in the kitchen.
Dipping Delight: Serve with marinara sauce for an extra layer of flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Pastry brush
Clean surface (like a cutting board)
Knife
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your pizza bombs evenly.
Pastry brush: Perfect for applying olive oil on top of the dough balls for that golden finish.
Knife: Essential for cutting the dough into squares easily and precisely.

Ingredients

To make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs, gather the following ingredients:

1 can refrigerated pizza dough
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Open the can of refrigerated pizza dough and unroll it onto a clean surface.
Cut the pizza dough into squares, about 2 inches on each side.
Sprinkle a small amount of flour on the surface to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add Filling

Take a heaping tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese and place it in the center of each dough square.
Add one or two slices of pepperoni on top of the cheese in each square.
Sprinkle a pinch of grated Parmesan cheese over the filling.
Dust lightly with garlic powder and dried oregano.

Step 4: Form the Bombs

Carefully fold in the corners of each dough square toward the center to seal in the filling.
Gently roll each dough ball between your hands to ensure it’s fully sealed and round.

Step 5: Bake

Arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
Brush the tops with olive oil using a pastry brush.
Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.

Step 6: Serve

While they bake:
* Pour marinara sauce into a small dipping bowl.
Once done, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs with marinara sauce!

How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious bites to enhance your snacking experience.

With Marinara Sauce

A classic choice, marinara sauce adds a tangy flavor that complements the cheesy goodness of the bombs.

Fresh Herbs

Garnish with chopped basil or parsley for a fresh touch that brightens up the dish and adds color.

Side of Salad

Pair with a simple green salad for a light contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza bombs.

Cheese Dip

Serve with a warm cheese dip for an extra cheesy experience that cheese lovers will adore.

Veggie Platter

Offer a platter of fresh vegetables alongside the pizza bombs for a crunchy, healthy option.

Beverages

Complement with fizzy drinks or craft beers to elevate your snack time further.

How to Perfect Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Perfecting your Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs can make all the difference in taste and presentation. Here are some useful tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and quality pepperoni enhance flavor and texture.
Seal Well: Ensure each dough ball is sealed tightly to keep the filling inside during baking.
Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; ovens vary, and you want them golden brown but not burnt.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.
Let Cool Slightly: Allow them to cool briefly after baking; this makes them easier to eat and prevents burns.
Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve them warm straight from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider.

Garlic Bread
A classic side that brings extra warmth and flavor, perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the rich pizza bombs.
Buffalo Wings
Spicy wings offer a kick that complements the cheesy flavors of the pizza bombs beautifully.
Potato Wedges
Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that everyone loves.
Antipasto Platter
Include olives, cured meats, and cheeses for an Italian-inspired pairing that excites the palate.
Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad can bring balance and freshness alongside the savory pizza bombs.
Coleslaw
Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a tangy taste that contrasts nicely with the warm cheese bites.
Onion Rings
Crispy onion rings provide an extra crunch that pairs well with the gooey pizza bombs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final product.

Not sealing properly: Ensure you fold and seal the dough tightly. This prevents cheese from leaking out during baking.
Using cold dough: For the best texture, let the dough come to room temperature before handling. Cold dough can be tough and hard to work with.
Skipping preheating: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and crispy edges on the pizza bombs.
Overfilling: It can be tempting to add lots of filling, but too much can cause the bombs to burst. Stick to recommended amounts for best results.
Ignoring bake time: Keep an eye on your pizza bombs as they bake. Overbaking can lead to dryness while underbaking may leave them gooey in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individually for about 30 seconds on high. This method may result in a softer texture.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through, which helps maintain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs from scratch?

You can make your own pizza dough using flour, yeast, water, and olive oil. Follow similar steps as in the recipe above once your dough is ready.

Can I customize the filling for my Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or different cheeses based on your preference.

What dips pair well with Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs?

Marinara sauce is classic, but ranch dressing or garlic butter also complement these pizza bombs well.

How long does it take to make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs?

The total time is about 32 minutes—15 minutes for prep and 12-15 minutes for baking.

Can I use other types of cheese in my pizza bombs?

Certainly! You can try cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with various fillings or dips according to your taste preferences. They make a fantastic snack or party treat that everyone will love—be sure to give them a try!

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