Pin it
Our Cheesy Pepperoni Buns take sandwich rolls to a whole new level by smothering them with melted cheese and crispy pepperoni slices. They're super simple to whip up and work great as a starter, afternoon munch, or alongside your main course. Got friends coming over for the big game? Or just want something fun the kids will gobble up? These cheesy rolls won't last long on any table. Pair them with some dipping sauce and watch everyone fight for the last piece!
INGREDIENTS
- 2 big sandwich rolls: They'll get nice and toasty outside while staying fluffy inside - the perfect platform for all your toppings.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the outside turn golden and adds a bit of extra flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings that classic pizza-like herb taste that works so well with the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Gives everything a tasty punch of garlic without needing fresh cloves.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For folks who like a bit of heat - leave it out if you want it mild.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that awesome stretchy, gooey layer when melted.
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds a nice tangy bite that makes the flavor more interesting.
- 1/2 cup pepperoni: Gets slightly crispy in the oven and brings that classic salty, meaty taste.
- Marinara or pizza sauce (for serving): The tangy sauce makes for awesome dipping and balances out the richness.
VARIATIONS
- Mega Meat Version: Throw on some cooked sausage chunks, diced ham, or bacon bits alongside the pepperoni.
- Plant-Based Option: Ditch the meat and load up with cooked mushrooms, colored peppers, and some diced onions instead.
- Heat It Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or drip some hot sauce on top for people who love spicy food.
- Buttery Garlic Upgrade: Smear some melted garlic butter over the top right as they come out of the oven for extra flavor.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Get your oven warming up to 350°F. Slice your sandwich rolls into 2-inch sections but don't cut all the way through - leave the bottom connected so everything stays together as one piece. This makes it easy for people to tear off portions later.
- Step 2:
- Grab a small bowl and mix up your olive oil with the Italian seasoning, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes if you're using them. Use a brush to coat the tops of the rolls and get some of this tasty mixture down into the cuts you made.
- Step 3:
- Spread the mozzarella all over the tops, arrange your pepperoni slices on the cheese, then sprinkle Parmesan over everything to finish it off.
- Step 4:
- Put your loaded rolls on a baking sheet and stick them in the oven for about 15-18 minutes. You want the cheese completely melted and the bread edges turning golden brown. For extra crispiness, you can flip on the broiler for the last minute or two - just keep watching so nothing burns.
- Step 5:
- Take them out and let them sit for a minute or two before serving. Warm up some marinara or pizza sauce to serve alongside for dipping. Now dig in and enjoy your amazing Cheesy Pepperoni Buns!
Serving and Storage Tips
- These taste best right out of the oven with warm dipping sauce on the side. They'll be the first thing to vanish at any party or family dinner.
- Got some left? Pop them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you want to eat them, warm them back up in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to get that crispiness back.
- Try serving these alongside pasta dishes, a bowl of soup, or with a big salad. They go great with practically anything!
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay: "Don't use pre-shredded cheese bags from the store. Grate it yourself just before using and you'll get way better melting and more flavor."
- Chef Guy Fieri: "Wanna take this to Flavortown? Add a quick drizzle of melted garlic butter right when they come out of the oven!"
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis: "For a fresh Italian touch, sprinkle some chopped basil or parsley on top after they're baked. The herbs will release amazing scents as they hit the hot cheese."