If you love the classic flavors of pizza but want a fun, handheld twist, this Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe is about to become your new favorite snack. Imagine gooey melted mozzarella wrapped with spicy pepperoni inside a golden, flaky dough crust that’s perfectly seasoned and oven-baked to cheesy perfection. Each bite delivers that unbeatable combination of crispy, savory, and melty goodness that’s great for parties, lunchboxes, or even a quick dinner. Plus, these pizza sticks are surprisingly simple to make yet endlessly satisfying — you’ll wonder why you didn’t start making them sooner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each bringing something special to the table — from the rich string cheese pulling into strings of molten delight, to the perfectly spiced dough that hugs every bite with flavor and crunch.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough: Forms the golden, flaky base that holds everything together perfectly.
- Mozzarella string cheese sticks: Provide irresistibly stretchy and melty cheesiness at the center of each stick.
- Pepperoni slices: Add that classic pepperoni zing and a bit of spice to every bite.
- Olive oil: Brushed on top to help achieve a beautiful golden texture and enhance flavor.
- Italian seasoning: Sprinkled in the oil for a herbaceous, aromatic boost.
- Garlic powder: A subtle punch of savory garlic to deepen the flavor profile.
- Marinara or pizza sauce: Served alongside for dipping, adding a tangy finish that’s hard to resist.
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep those pizza sticks from sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Unroll your crescent roll dough or pizza dough and carefully separate it into 8 equal triangles or strips depending on the dough type you choose. This step lays the foundation for perfectly portioned sticks that bake evenly.
Step 2: Assemble the Pizza Sticks
Place 4 slices of pepperoni right in the center of each dough piece—this layering ensures every bite is packed with pepperoni goodness. Then, add one mozzarella string cheese stick on top of the pepperoni. Now, roll the dough around this delicious filling, making sure to pinch the edges securely so no cheese or pepperoni escapes during baking. Place each rolled stick seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet to keep them sealed and looking tidy.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Bake
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to create a fragrant brush-on glaze. Gently brush this mixture over each dough-wrapped cheese stick — this not only creates a gorgeous golden crust but also infuses each bite with inviting Italian flavors. Bake the sticks in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until they’re golden brown and you can see that irresistible cheese melting inside. The aroma alone will have you eager to dive right in!
How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra zing, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over the pizza sticks just before serving. It adds a pop of color and a subtle heat that complements the melty cheese and savory pepperoni perfectly.
Side Dishes
These pizza sticks pair brilliantly with a cool, crisp side salad or a bowl of fresh veggie sticks for a balanced bite. Plus, a small bowl of marinara or your favorite pizza sauce is a must-have for dipping, turning each cheesy finger into a flavor-packed treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at your next gathering? Arrange these cheesy pepperoni pizza sticks on a festive platter with mini bowls of different dipping sauces like spicy arrabbiata, creamy ranch, or pesto mayo. You can even serve them with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and some fresh basil leaves for an elegant touch that still feels like home-cooked comfort food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be tough because they’re so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered helps maintain that soft-chewy texture without drying out the dough or cheese.
Freezing
To enjoy these cheesy delights later, freeze the assembled but unbaked sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a snack, just bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover pizza sticks is in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 8 minutes until warmed through and crispy on the outside. This restores the melty cheese and flaky crust far better than the microwave, which can sometimes leave dough soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella string cheese is ideal for that classic stretchy melt, you can experiment with cheddar sticks or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure the cheese melts well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the pepperoni or substitute it with vegetarian pepperoni or sliced veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make these pizza sticks ahead of time for a party?
Definitely. You can assemble them up to a day prior and keep them refrigerated, then bake fresh just before your guests arrive for the best texture and flavor.
What dipping sauces go well beyond marinara?
Try ranch dressing, garlic butter sauce, or even a honey mustard dip. Each brings a fun twist and complements the rich, cheesy center wonderfully.
Are these pizza sticks kid-friendly?
Yes, they’re a great choice for kids! Mild flavors and easy-to-hold sticks make them a lunchbox favorite or after-school snack loved by kids and adults alike.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe is the perfect blend of simple ingredients and bold flavors that turn into a warm, comforting treat everyone will adore. Whether you’re sharing with friends, packing lunches, or just treating yourself, these sticks are easy to make, delicious to eat, and full of that homemade love. Go ahead and give them a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 sticks
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make snack perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a quick dinner. Made with crescent or pizza dough stuffed with mozzarella string cheese and pepperoni, then baked to golden perfection and served with marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough
Filling:
- 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 32 slices of pepperoni
Topping and Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Serving:
- Marinara or pizza sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent or pizza dough and separate it into 8 individual triangles or strips, depending on the dough type you are using.
- Add Filling: On the center of each dough piece, layer 4 slices of pepperoni followed by one mozzarella string cheese stick. This layering ensures a perfect balance of cheese and meat in each pizza stick.
- Roll and Seal: Carefully roll the dough around the cheese and pepperoni, pinching the edges firmly to seal and prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place each rolled pizza stick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow even cooking.
- Brush with Seasoned Oil: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush this seasoned oil mixture generously over the tops of each pizza stick to add flavor and a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until the sticks are golden brown and the cheese inside has melted thoroughly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping, providing a classic pizza flavor experience in every bite.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sliced olives or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes inside the dough along with the pepperoni and cheese.
- These pizza sticks make a great party snack, lunchbox treat, or a quick and easy dinner option.
- Leftovers reheat well in an oven or air fryer, retaining crispiness and melting the cheese perfectly.
