Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe

“`html

If you’re craving a snack that perfectly combines melty, gooey cheese with zesty pepperoni wrapped in a golden, crispy crust, then you simply must try this Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe. These irresistible bites capture all the comforting flavors of a classic pizza but in a fun, handheld form that’s perfect for sharing or sneaking a few at any time of day. Whether you’re hosting game night, need a quick appetizer, or want a cozy treat, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of cheesy goodness and spicy pepperoni wrapped in a satisfyingly crispy dough. Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe, it’ll quickly become a new favorite in your snack rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is essential for nailing the flavor and texture of these pizza sticks. Each component plays a vital role, from the stretch of the mozzarella to the punch of pepperoni and the golden finish of an egg wash with herbs. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to whip up this delicious treat.

• Refrigerated pizza dough (1 package): A convenient base that bakes up crisp on the outside and soft inside, or use your homemade dough for that extra personal touch.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): This melts beautifully, giving the sticks that classic gooey texture everyone loves.
• Pepperoni slices (1/2 cup, halved or quartered): Adds a savory, slightly spicy bite that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Sprinkled on top for a sharp, nutty boost and a gorgeous golden crust.
• Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the sticks with an aromatic herb flavor reminiscent of traditional pizza.
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a subtle, savory depth that enhances every bite.
• Egg (1, beaten): Used to brush the dough for a beautiful shine and to help the Parmesan and herbs stick.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds moisture and a hint of richness when brushing over the sticks.
• Pizza sauce (1/2 cup): Essential for dipping and rounding out the rich, cheesy flavor with tang and spice.

How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a light grease coating ensures your pizza sticks won’t stick and will bake evenly to a crispy perfection. This simple prep sets the stage for golden, irresistible crusts.

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. This gives you a dough that’s thin enough to get crisp edges but thick enough to hold the fillings. Use a knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into strips that measure about 1-inch wide and 6 inches long. These strips will soon be stuffed with cheesy, pepperoni goodness.

Step 3: Add Pepperoni and Cheese

Place a few pepperoni slices right in the center of each dough strip. Be generous here because the pepperoni is where the spicy, savory flavor shines. Then pile on a hearty spoonful of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni, ensuring each stick will ooze cheesy delight from every bite.

Step 4: Fold and Seal

Carefully fold the dough strips over the cheese and pepperoni to create little pockets. Pinch the edges firmly to seal in the fillings so they don’t leak out during baking. Shaping these into neat stick-like forms gives you the classic handheld pizza snack look and keeps all the cheesy goodness inside.

Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place each sealed pizza stick onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart so they bake evenly without sticking together. This step guarantees beautiful, evenly baked sticks with crispy edges all around.

Step 6: Brush and Season

Brush each pizza stick with the beaten egg, which creates a shiny, golden crust and helps the Parmesan cheese and herbs stick. Then sprinkle Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder evenly over the tops. This seasoning boost layers on fantastic flavor and a crispy, aromatic finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re aiming for golden brown crusts with melted, bubbly cheese peeking out. The smell at this stage is absolutely mouthwatering—your kitchen will fill with all the nostalgic scents of pizza night.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pizza sticks from the oven and let them cool just a bit before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm so the cheese is still melty, and dip them generously into the pizza sauce on the side for an extra punch of flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over your pizza sticks just before serving to add a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich cheese and pepperoni. A light drizzle of garlic butter or olive oil can also elevate the flavor and make each bite shine.

Side Dishes

Serve these pizza sticks alongside a simple mixed green salad to balance out the richness or a tangy coleslaw for refreshing crunch. A bowl of marinara or ranch dressing on the side can offer extra dipping options, making your snack time even more enjoyable.

Creative Ways to Present

Try threading the pizza sticks onto skewers for a fun party presentation, or arrange them like a bouquet on a platter with small bowls of various sauces for dipping. Wrapping them in parchment paper tied with string gives a charming, rustic look, perfect for casual get-togethers or lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cool your leftover pizza sticks to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture well, making for easy snacks the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze these pizza sticks before baking by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the pizza sticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that delightful crunch — the oven will bring them back to life perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its meltiness, feel free to mix in provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind how each cheese melts to keep the perfect gooey texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply leave out the pepperoni and add your favorite pizza toppings like sautéed mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers instead. You’ll still get that wonderful cheesy, crispy experience without the meat.

How spicy are the Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks?

The spiciness depends mainly on the pepperoni brand you choose. Most pepperoni has a mild to moderate spice level, but you can opt for a spicy variety to kick things up or a mild one to keep it kid-friendly.

Can I prepare these pizza sticks ahead of time and bake later?

Definitely! You can assemble the sticks and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to keep the dough from drying out, then bake as usual when ready.

What dipping sauces work best with this recipe?

Classic pizza sauce is a perfect match, but marinara, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo offer delicious twists. Try a few to find your favorite pairing!

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into a crave-worthy snack with gooey cheese and zesty pepperoni wrapped in golden dough. It’s easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for any occasion where you want to bring smiles and full tummies. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this cheesy, delicious adventure. Trust me, these pizza sticks are going to disappear fast, and you’ll want to keep this recipe close for all your future snack cravings!

“`

Print