Super Bowl Pizza Rolls

The smell of baking dough and melting mozzarella always takes me back to my cousin's apartment during championship season. We'd crowd around the TV with plates piled high, dipping warm, garlicky rolls into extra sauce and debating which plays deserved the replays. Now I make these for my own gatherings, and the same friendly arguments erupt over who gets the last roll.

Last year I made three batches for a small gathering and still ended up texting my neighbor for extra flour. People kept asking where I ordered from, and watching their faces when I said homemade became my favorite part of the night.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for pillowy dough that crisps beautifully in the oven
• 1 packet (7 g) instant dry yeast: Active yeast creates those irresistible air pockets inside each roll
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast for proper rise and adds subtle sweetness to the crust
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for flavor balance and dough structure
• 3/4 cup warm water: Should feel like bath temperature, around 105°F to wake up the yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the dough tender and adds richness
• 3/4 cup halal beef or chicken pepperoni: Diced small distributes savory flavor throughout every bite
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Low-moisture cheese prevents soggy centers
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce: Check the certification label, this binds everything together
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers: Adds fresh crunch and color against the melted cheese
• 1/4 cup diced red onion: Provides mild sweetness and depth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: That classic pizza aroma starts here
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Balances the oregano with sweet, earthy notes
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil: Creates that golden, brushed finish on top
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the crust with savory flavor
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese: Optional but adds salty umami if halal-certified
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the appearance and adds fresh contrast

Instructions

Make the dough:

Combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl, then pour in warm water and olive oil. Mix until shaggy dough forms, then turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Let it rise:

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and set in a warm spot for 30 minutes until doubled in size.

Prep your station:

Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks later.

Roll it out:

Punch down the risen dough gently and roll into a 12 by 10-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.

Layer the flavors:

Spread pizza sauce evenly, leaving a 1/2-inch border, then scatter mozzarella, halal pepperoni, bell peppers, red onion, oregano, and basil across the surface.

Form the log:

Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a cylinder and pinch the seam firmly to seal everything inside.

Slice and place:

Cut the log into 1-inch pieces and arrange them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each.

Add the finishing touches:

Brush tops with melted butter or olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, Parmesan cheese if using, and fresh parsley over each roll.

Bake to golden:

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the tops are golden brown and cheese is bubbling through the seams.

Serve warm:

Let cool for just a few minutes on the pan, then transfer to a platter with extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Pin

My friend's daughter now requests these for every sleepover, and I've learned to double the recipe because single batches never survive past halftime.

Make-Ahead Magic

You can assemble the entire log, wrap it tightly in plastic, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, slice and bake fresh rolls that taste like you just made them.

Freezing For Later

Bake the rolls completely, cool them on a rack, then freeze in airtight bags for up to a month. Reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes and they emerge almost as good as fresh.

Serving Suggestions

These shine alongside other finger foods like wings or loaded nachos. Set out small bowls of extra sauce, ranch, or hot honey for dipping variety.

• Pair with an ice-cold soda or sparkling mocktail
• Extra red pepper flakes on the side for heat lovers
• Keep a backup pizza box ready for inevitable leftovers

Pin

However you serve them, these rolls have a way of turning strangers into teammates sharing the last sauce-dipped piece.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What ingredients make up the filling?

The filling includes halal beef or chicken pepperoni, shredded mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, diced bell peppers, red onion, dried oregano, and dried basil.

→ Can these rolls be made vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the pepperoni and add mushrooms or olives to maintain rich flavors.

→ What is the ideal baking temperature and time?

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 20 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and bubbly.

→ Are there allergen concerns to consider?

These rolls contain wheat, dairy, and butter; ensure all ingredients are halal-certified and nut-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store baked rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.