Vegetarian Pizza Rolls Recipe

Pizza night just got a whole lot more fun and interactive with these incredible vegetarian pizza rolls! In my household, pizza is practically a food group, and we’re always on the lookout for exciting new ways to enjoy those classic Italian flavors. When I first stumbled upon this recipe for vegetarian pizza rolls, I was intrigued. Could they really capture the essence of pizza in a fun, bite-sized package? The answer, after trying them out, is a resounding YES! From the first cheesy, flavorful bite, these rolls were an instant hit with everyone, from my picky-eater teenager to my pizza-loving partner. They’re surprisingly easy to make, incredibly customizable, and perfect for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. The best part? They are packed with delicious vegetarian goodness, proving that you don’t need meat to create a truly satisfying and craveable pizza experience. Get ready to ditch the traditional pizza slices and dive into a world of cheesy, rolled-up perfection that will have your family and friends begging for more!

Ingredients

To embark on your vegetarian pizza roll adventure, gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients. We’ve opted for a classic combination of Italian-inspired fillings, but feel free to get creative and customize to your liking! Remember, the beauty of pizza rolls is their versatility – you can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste and what you have on hand. For the best results, use high-quality ingredients, especially for the cheese and dough. Fresh, vibrant vegetables will also elevate the flavor profile significantly.

For the Dough:

• 1 pound Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience, or make your own from scratch if you’re feeling ambitious! Store-bought dough is readily available in most grocery stores, either refrigerated or frozen. If using frozen dough, be sure to thaw it completely according to package directions before using. Homemade dough will offer the freshest flavor and texture, but requires more time and effort. Consider using a classic Neapolitan dough recipe or a simple no-knead dough for a less intensive option. For a healthier twist, you could even experiment with whole wheat pizza dough for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor and health benefits. It will be used to brush the dough and help achieve a golden brown and slightly crispy crust. Olive oil also adds moisture and prevents the dough from drying out during baking. If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can substitute with another neutral cooking oil like canola oil or vegetable oil, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle savory depth to the dough, enhancing the overall pizza flavor. Ensure it’s fresh garlic powder for the best aroma and taste. You can also use fresh garlic, minced very finely, if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor. If using fresh garlic, sauté it briefly in olive oil before brushing it onto the dough to mellow its intensity and release its fragrance.
• ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano: Dried oregano is a classic Italian herb that complements the pizza flavors perfectly. Its slightly pungent and earthy notes contribute to the authentic pizza taste. Make sure your oregano is relatively fresh for optimal flavor – dried herbs lose their potency over time. You can also use other Italian herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary, or a blend of Italian seasoning, depending on your preference.

For the Filling:

• 1 cup Marinara Sauce: Choose a good quality marinara sauce as it forms the base of the pizza flavor. You can use store-bought marinara sauce or homemade marinara sauce. Opt for a sauce that is rich, flavorful, and not overly sweet. Read the ingredient list to avoid sauces with excessive added sugar or artificial ingredients. Homemade marinara sauce allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Consider using San Marzano tomatoes for a particularly rich and authentic Italian flavor in your homemade sauce.
• 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella is recommended for pizza rolls as it melts beautifully and provides a classic cheesy pull without becoming too watery. Pre-shredded mozzarella is convenient, but freshly shredded mozzarella will melt more smoothly and have a better texture. You can also use whole milk mozzarella for a richer, creamier flavor, but it may release more moisture during baking. For a vegan option, use a good quality vegan mozzarella alternative that melts well.
• 1 cup Ricotta Cheese: Whole milk ricotta cheese adds creaminess and a subtle tang to the filling, creating a delightful textural contrast to the melted mozzarella. Full-fat ricotta will provide the best flavor and texture, but part-skim ricotta can be used for a slightly lighter option. Ensure the ricotta is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the pizza rolls. If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute with cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, or even cottage cheese (drained and blended smooth) for a different, but still creamy, element.
• 1 cup Mixed Vegetables, diced small: Get creative with your vegetable medley! Some excellent choices include:
  • Bell Peppers (red, green, yellow): Add sweetness, color, and crunch. Diced bell peppers are a classic pizza topping and provide a good source of vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Onions (yellow or red): Provide savory flavor and a slight bite. Sautéing the onions lightly before adding them to the filling can mellow their flavor and sweetness.
  • Mushrooms (cremini, white button): Offer an earthy and umami flavor. Sautéing the mushrooms before adding them to the filling will remove excess moisture and enhance their flavor.
  • Black Olives (pitted and sliced): Add a salty and briny flavor. Black olives are a classic pizza topping and provide a nice contrast to the other vegetables.
  • Spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and squeezed dry): Adds a boost of nutrients and a subtle earthy flavor. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible to prevent soggy pizza rolls.
  • Zucchini or Yellow Squash (diced): Adds a mild and slightly sweet flavor. Diced zucchini or yellow squash provide a good source of vitamins and fiber.
  • Cherry Tomatoes (halved or quartered): Add bursts of sweetness and acidity. Cherry tomatoes are a vibrant and flavorful addition to vegetarian pizza rolls.
  Choose a combination of vegetables that you enjoy and that complement each other in terms of flavor and texture. Aim for a variety of colors for visual appeal and nutritional diversity. Ensure all vegetables are diced into small, uniform pieces so they cook evenly and fit nicely within the pizza rolls.
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor that enhances the overall cheesy taste of the pizza rolls. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is always preferred for its superior flavor and texture compared to pre-grated Parmesan. You can also use Pecorino Romano cheese for a similar, but slightly sharper, flavor. Parmesan cheese adds a nice crispy texture when baked on top of the pizza rolls.
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs that typically includes oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. It provides a convenient way to add a complex Italian flavor profile to the filling. Make sure your Italian seasoning is relatively fresh for optimal aroma and taste. You can also create your own Italian seasoning blend by combining individual dried herbs in equal proportions.
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients. Start with a pinch of salt and black pepper and adjust to your taste preference. Taste the filling before assembling the pizza rolls and add more seasoning as needed. Remember that cheese and marinara sauce already contain some salt, so season cautiously and adjust gradually.

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients prepped and ready, let’s get rolling! These step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process of creating perfect vegetarian pizza rolls every time. Don’t be intimidated – the process is quite straightforward and even fun, especially if you involve the family in the rolling process!

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure your oven is properly preheated for even baking and crispy pizza rolls. Using an oven thermometer can help you verify the accuracy of your oven temperature.
• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the pizza rolls from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup much easier. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

• Lightly flour a clean work surface. This will prevent the pizza dough from sticking to the surface while you roll it out. Use all-purpose flour or semolina flour for dusting.
• Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches. Aim for an even thickness of about ¼ inch. Use a rolling pin to gently roll out the dough, starting from the center and working outwards. If the dough is sticking, add a little more flour to the work surface or the rolling pin. A rectangular shape is ideal for creating uniform pizza rolls.
• Brush the entire surface of the dough with olive oil. Ensure you coat the dough evenly with olive oil, leaving a thin layer. The olive oil will add flavor, moisture, and help the dough brown nicely in the oven.
• Sprinkle garlic powder and dried oregano evenly over the oiled dough. Distribute the garlic powder and oregano evenly across the dough for consistent flavor in each pizza roll. You can also use other seasonings at this stage, such as red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or Italian seasoning for a more complex herbal flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Filling

• Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along the edges. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the marinara sauce in a thin, even layer. Avoid over-saucing, as this can make the pizza rolls soggy and difficult to roll. Leaving a border will help seal the rolls and prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
• Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara sauce. Distribute the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, ensuring it covers the entire sauced area. Mozzarella cheese is the primary melting cheese and provides the classic pizza cheese pull.
• Dollop ricotta cheese in small spoonfuls over the mozzarella cheese. Distribute small spoonfuls of ricotta cheese randomly over the mozzarella. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess and a subtle tang to the filling.
• Scatter the diced mixed vegetables evenly over the cheeses. Distribute the diced vegetables evenly over the cheeses, ensuring they are well-dispersed throughout the filling. Vegetables add flavor, texture, and nutrients to the pizza rolls.
• Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over the vegetables. Distribute the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning evenly over the vegetables. Parmesan cheese adds a salty and umami flavor, while Italian seasoning enhances the overall Italian flavor profile.
• Season lightly with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper over the filling to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients. Remember that cheese and marinara sauce are already salty, so season cautiously.

Step 4: Roll and Slice the Pizza Rolls

• Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log, like a jelly roll. Roll the dough tightly but gently, ensuring the filling is enclosed within the roll. A tight roll will help the pizza rolls maintain their shape during baking.
• Pinch the seam to seal the roll. Pinch the seam along the length of the roll to seal it securely. This will prevent the roll from unrolling during baking.
• Using a serrated knife, slice the log into 1 ½-inch thick rolls. Use a sharp serrated knife for clean slices. Slice the log into even-sized rolls for uniform baking. You should get approximately 12-16 pizza rolls from this recipe, depending on the thickness of your slices.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza Rolls

• Place the pizza rolls, seam-side down, on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Arrange the pizza rolls on the baking sheet with a little space between them to allow for even air circulation and browning. Placing them seam-side down helps prevent them from unrolling during baking.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Bake until the pizza rolls are golden brown on top and bottom, and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned in spots. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the rolls.
• Let cool slightly before serving. Allow the pizza rolls to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. This will make them easier to handle and prevent burning your mouth on the hot cheese.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or pesto. Pizza rolls are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is melted and gooey and the crust is slightly crispy. Serve them immediately for the best taste and texture.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated, per serving of 2 pizza rolls, assuming 16 rolls from the recipe. Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and vegetable choices.)

• Servings: 8 (2 pizza rolls per serving)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

Approximate Breakdown per serving:

• Total Fat: 18-22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8-10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8-12g
• Cholesterol: 40-50mg
• Sodium: 600-800mg (can vary greatly depending on marinara sauce and cheese choices)
• Total Carbohydrates: 35-40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugars: 5-7g (primarily from marinara sauce and vegetables)
• Protein: 15-18g

Please Note: These are estimated nutritional values. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Consider using lower-sodium marinara sauce and part-skim mozzarella cheese to reduce sodium and fat content. Adding more vegetables will increase fiber and nutrient content while potentially slightly lowering calorie density.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30-40 minutes (includes vegetable chopping, dough rolling, and filling assembly)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 50-65 minutes

This recipe is relatively quick to prepare, especially if you use store-bought pizza dough and pre-chopped vegetables. The active prep time is mainly spent on rolling out the dough, preparing the filling, and assembling the rolls. Baking time is relatively short, making these pizza rolls a great option for a weeknight meal or a last-minute appetizer.

How to Serve

Vegetarian pizza rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for different occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your pizza roll experience:

• Dipping Sauces:
  • Classic Marinara Sauce: A warm marinara sauce is the quintessential dipping sauce for pizza rolls. It complements the cheesy, Italian flavors perfectly and adds a tangy sweetness.
  • Ranch Dressing: Cool and creamy ranch dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory pizza rolls. It’s a crowd-pleasing option, especially for kids.
  • Pesto: Basil pesto adds a vibrant, herbaceous, and nutty flavor dimension to the pizza rolls. It’s a more sophisticated dipping sauce option.
  • Garlic Aioli: Creamy garlic aioli provides a rich and garlicky dipping experience. It pairs well with the savory pizza rolls and adds a touch of indulgence.
  • Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For those who like a kick, sriracha mayo adds a creamy, spicy, and tangy element. It’s a fun and flavorful dipping sauce option.
• As an Appetizer:
  • Arrange pizza rolls on a platter with various dipping sauces for a party appetizer.
  • Serve them with a side of fresh vegetables and hummus for a balanced and healthy appetizer spread.
  • Skewer pizza rolls onto appetizer sticks with cherry tomatoes and olives for a fun and visually appealing presentation.
• As a Main Course:
  • Serve pizza rolls with a side salad for a light and satisfying meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing pairs well with the rich pizza rolls.
  • Pair them with a bowl of soup, such as tomato soup or minestrone soup, for a comforting and complete meal.
  • Add a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, to increase the vegetable intake and create a more balanced dinner.
• For Kids:
  • Pizza rolls are a kid-friendly favorite! Serve them with ketchup or a mild marinara sauce for dipping.
  • Cut pizza rolls into smaller, bite-sized pieces for younger children.
  • Pack them in lunchboxes as a fun and portable meal option.
• Presentation Ideas:
  • Garnish pizza rolls with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
  • Arrange pizza rolls in a decorative pattern on a platter for a more elegant presentation.

Additional Tips for Perfect Vegetarian Pizza Rolls

Here are five helpful tips to ensure your vegetarian pizza rolls are a resounding success every time:

1. Don’t Overfill the Rolls: Resist the urge to overstuff the pizza rolls with filling. Too much filling can make them difficult to roll, cause them to burst open during baking, and result in soggy pizza rolls. A moderate amount of filling ensures even cooking and prevents leakage. Spread the filling in a thin, even layer over the dough, leaving a small border for sealing.
2. Seal the Seam Tightly: Properly sealing the seam of the pizza roll log is crucial to prevent them from unrolling during baking. After rolling the dough into a log, pinch the seam firmly along its entire length to ensure it is securely closed. You can also gently roll the log seam-side down on the work surface to further seal it. Placing the rolls seam-side down on the baking sheet also helps maintain their shape.
3. Customize Your Vegetables: Get creative and experiment with different vegetable combinations to find your favorite pizza roll variations. Roasted vegetables, like roasted red peppers or eggplant, can add a deeper, smoky flavor. Sautéed vegetables, like caramelized onions or garlic mushrooms, can add sweetness and umami. Don’t be afraid to try less traditional pizza vegetables like artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or even grilled corn for unique flavor profiles.
4. Adjust Baking Time as Needed: Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s important to monitor the pizza rolls during baking and adjust the baking time as needed. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes. The pizza rolls are ready when they are golden brown on top and bottom, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If they are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with foil to prevent over-browning while ensuring the inside is cooked through.
5. Reheat Pizza Rolls Properly: Leftover pizza rolls can be reheated for a quick snack or meal. For the best results, reheat them in the oven or an air fryer to maintain their crispy texture. Reheating in the microwave can make them soggy. To reheat in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the pizza rolls for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy. In an air fryer, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are five frequently asked questions about making vegetarian pizza rolls, along with helpful answers to guide you:

Q1: Can I make pizza rolls ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare pizza rolls ahead of time in several ways. You can assemble the rolls and store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge. Alternatively, you can bake the pizza rolls completely and then reheat them later. Baked pizza rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best texture. You can also freeze baked pizza rolls for longer storage (see Q3).

Q2: Can I use different types of cheese in pizza rolls?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to customize the flavor of your pizza rolls. You can use provolone, Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses in place of or in addition to mozzarella and ricotta. Consider the melting properties and flavor profiles of different cheeses when making your selections. Stronger cheeses like provolone or cheddar will add a bolder flavor, while milder cheeses like Monterey Jack will melt smoothly and create a creamy texture.

Q3: Can I freeze pizza rolls?

A: Yes, pizza rolls freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prepping or batch cooking. To freeze baked pizza rolls, let them cool completely after baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen pizza rolls can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat frozen pizza rolls, bake them directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown.

Q4: Can I make vegan pizza rolls?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to make vegan pizza rolls. Use vegan pizza dough, which is readily available in many grocery stores or can be made from scratch. Substitute vegan mozzarella and ricotta cheese alternatives. There are many good quality vegan cheese alternatives available that melt and taste similar to dairy cheese. Ensure your marinara sauce is also vegan-friendly (most are, but check the ingredient list). Fill with your favorite vegan vegetables.

Q5: What if my pizza rolls are soggy on the bottom?

A: Soggy pizza rolls can be caused by a few factors. Ensure you are using a baking sheet that allows for good air circulation. Using parchment paper is recommended, but make sure it’s not trapping moisture underneath. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can also trap moisture. Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and that you are baking the pizza rolls long enough. If your vegetables are very moist, consider sautéing them slightly before adding them to the filling to remove excess moisture. You can also try baking the pizza rolls on a pizza stone or baking steel for a crispier bottom crust.

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