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Easy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs: A Bite-Sized Delight

Easy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs: A Bite-Sized Delight Imagine biting into a warm, golden pocket of dough, releasing a burst of savory marinara, melted mozzarella, and zesty pepperoni. That's the magic of these incredibly easy pepperoni pizza bombs! Forget complicated recipes; this one is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Using ready-made dough and simple pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these addictive bites in under 30 minutes of active time. They are the perfect solution for a quick weeknight snack, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at parties, or a fun cooking project with the kids. The combination of gooey cheese, spicy pepperoni, and flavorful garlic butter crust is simply irresistible. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients transform into something so delicious. Try making these easy pepperoni pizza bombs tonight—you won’t believe how simple and satisfying they are! Get ready for them to disappear fast. Ingredients (1) 13.8 oz can Refrigerated Pizza Dough (Pillsbury Classic Crust or similar works great) (1/2) cup Mini Pepperoni Slices (Or regular pepperoni, chopped) (1) cup Shredded Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cheese (1/4) cup Marinara or Pizza Sauce, plus extra for dipping (2) tbsp Unsalted Butter, melted (1/2) tsp Garlic Powder (1/2) tsp Italian Seasoning (or dried oregano) (2) tbsp Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional, for topping) User Tip: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pepperoni and cheese filling. Universal Tip: Always use freshly shredded mozzarella cheese if possible. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent a smooth, perfect melt inside your easy pepperoni pizza bombs. Universal Tip: Let your refrigerated dough sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before unrolling. This makes it much more pliable and easier to stretch without tearing. Step-by-Step Instructions Making these easy pepperoni pizza bombs is genuinely straightforward. Follow these steps for perfect results every time: Preheat and Prep: First things first, get your oven heating up to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the pizza bombs from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze – a crucial step for an easy recipe! Prepare the Dough: Carefully unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. If it feels stiff, let it rest for a few more minutes as suggested in the ingredients tips. Using a rolling pin or your hands, gently press or roll the dough into roughly a 12x8 inch rectangle. Don't worry about perfect dimensions. The key is to get it relatively even in thickness, about 1/4 inch thick. If it's too thin, it might tear when you fill it; too thick, and the dough-to-filling ratio might be off. Portion the Dough: Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into equal squares or circles. Aim for about 12-16 portions, depending on how large you want your easy pepperoni pizza bombs to be. Around 2.5 to 3-inch squares work well. Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, mini pepperoni (or chopped regular pepperoni), and the 1/4 cup of marinara or pizza sauce. Stir everything together until the cheese and pepperoni are evenly coated with sauce. This mixture is the delicious heart of your pizza bombs! Don't overdo the sauce here, as too much liquid can make sealing difficult and lead to leaks. Fill the Dough: Take one piece of dough. If needed, gently stretch it slightly larger with your fingers. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pepperoni and cheese mixture into the center of the dough piece. Be careful not to overfill! Overfilling is the most common reason pizza bombs might leak during baking. You need enough room to seal the edges properly. Seal the Bombs: This is an important step for keeping all that cheesy goodness inside. Carefully bring the corners or edges of the dough up and over the filling. Pinch the seams together tightly to create a sealed ball or pocket. Roll it gently between your palms to smooth the shape. Ensure there are no gaps or thin spots where the filling could escape. Why? A tight seal is crucial to prevent the cheese and sauce from bubbling out during baking, ensuring each bite is perfectly contained. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sealed easy pepperoni pizza bombs seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each one to allow for even baking and browning. Placing them seam-down adds an extra layer of security against leaks. Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping: In another small bowl, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and the 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. This simple topping adds a fantastic layer of flavor and helps the crust achieve that beautiful golden-brown color. Brush with Topping: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops and sides of each pizza bomb with the garlic butter mixture. Don't skip this step! It adds immense flavor and contributes significantly to the final appearance and texture. Add Parmesan (Optional): If you like, sprinkle the tops of the buttered pizza bombs with the grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a slightly salty, nutty flavor and contributes to a crispier top crust. Bake: Place the baking sheet into the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the easy pepperoni pizza bombs are puffed up and a deep golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as oven times can vary. You're looking for a beautifully browned crust and signs that the cheese inside is likely melted and bubbly (though hopefully contained!). Cool Slightly: Once baked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the pepperoni pizza bombs cool on the baking sheet for at least 5-10 minutes before serving. Why? The filling inside will be extremely hot, molten cheese and sauce! Letting them cool slightly prevents burnt tongues and allows the filling to set just a bit, making them easier to handle and eat. Serve: Arrange the warm easy pepperoni pizza bombs on a platter and serve immediately with extra marinara or pizza sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the cheesy, pepperoni-packed goodness! Serving Ideas Serving these easy pepperoni pizza bombs is all about enhancing their fun, snackable nature. The absolute classic pairing is a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping – it echoes the flavors inside and adds moisture. Don't stop there, though! Offer a cool, creamy counterpoint like ranch dressing or even a garlic aioli. For plating, arrange the golden-brown pizza bombs generously on a rustic wooden board or a simple white platter. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil over the top adds a pop of color and freshness. Consider serving them alongside some simple accompaniments like celery and carrot sticks with dip, or a light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness. These easy pepperoni pizza bombs are perfect as an appetizer for game day, a casual party snack, or even a fun, interactive dinner component, especially for kids. Make sure they're served warm for the best cheesy pull! FAQs 1. Can I use homemade pizza dough for these easy pepperoni pizza bombs? Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade pizza dough recipe, feel free to use it. You'll typically need about 1 pound of dough, similar to the amount in a standard refrigerated can. Prepare your dough as usual, let it rise if required by your recipe, and then proceed with rolling, cutting, filling, and baking as described. Using homemade dough can add an extra layer of flavor. For a reliable option, this Allrecipes Pizza Dough Recipe is popular, or find inspiration from various styles at Food Network Pizza Recipes. 2. Can I make easy pepperoni pizza bombs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare them ahead. Assemble the pizza bombs completely (stop before brushing with butter and baking), place them on the baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove them from the fridge while the oven preheats, brush with the garlic butter topping, and bake as directed, possibly adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time since they're starting cold. 3. What other fillings can I use besides pepperoni? Get creative! These pizza bombs are incredibly versatile. Try cooked crumbled Italian sausage, chopped ham and pineapple (Hawaiian style), sautéed mushrooms and onions with provolone (veggie option), cooked shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and cheddar, or even just different cheese blends like mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan. Ensure any meat fillings are pre-cooked before adding them. 4. Why did my easy pepperoni pizza bombs leak while baking? Leakage usually happens for a couple of reasons: Overfilling: Too much filling makes it hard to get a good seal. Use about 1 tablespoon per bomb. Improper Sealing: Ensure you pinch the seams together very tightly. Check for any small holes or thin spots in the dough where filling could escape. Placing them seam-side down on the baking sheet also helps. Sauce Too Thin: A very watery sauce might contribute to leakage. Use a thicker pizza or marinara sauce. 5. Can I cook these pepperoni pizza bombs in an air fryer? Yes, an air fryer works great for making pizza bombs crispy! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the assembled and butter-brushed pizza bombs in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to work in batches). Air fry for 6-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping them halfway if your air fryer requires it. Keep a close eye on them as air fryer times can vary. 6. How should I store leftover easy pepperoni pizza bombs? Allow the pizza bombs to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave (they'll be softer), a toaster oven, a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through, or an air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness. Conclusion These easy pepperoni pizza bombs truly live up to their name, offering all the beloved flavors of pizza wrapped up in a convenient, bite-sized package. They're incredibly simple to prepare using store-bought dough, making them perfect for busy weeknights, effortless entertaining, or just satisfying a sudden pizza craving. The combination of melted mozzarella, savory pepperoni, zesty sauce, and garlic-butter brushed dough is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Their versatility means you can easily adapt them to your favorite pizza toppings. Pro Tip: For extra crispy bottoms, preheat your baking sheet in the oven for a few minutes before placing the parchment paper and pizza bombs on it. This immediate contact with heat helps the bottom crust cook quickly and crisp up nicely. Pro Tip: Mix a teaspoon of nutritional yeast into the garlic butter topping along with the Parmesan for an extra cheesy, umami flavor boost. Don't hesitate to experiment with variations! Try making 'Supreme' bombs with cooked sausage, peppers, and onions, or 'Breakfast' bombs with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon bits. If you enjoyed the simplicity of this recipe, you might want to explore more quick and satisfying meals in our /one-pot-recipes section. Happy baking!
Print Recipe

These Easy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs deliver cheesy, saucy, meaty deliciousness with minimal effort. Perfect for parties, game day, or an irresistible weeknight snack, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (16.3 oz) can Refrigerated Biscuit Dough (flaky layers type)
  • 1/2 cup Pizza Sauce
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Mini Pepperoni Slices (or chopped regular pepperoni)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (or dried Oregano)
  • Optional: Grated Parmesan Cheese for topping
  • Optional: Marinara Sauce or Ranch Dressing for dipping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Separate biscuits and flatten each into a 3-4 inch circle.
  3. Spoon 1 teaspoon pizza sauce onto center of each, add 1 tablespoon mozzarella and 3-4 mini pepperoni slices.
  4. Gather edges of dough and pinch tightly to seal, forming a ball.
  5. Place seam-side down on prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
  6. Mix melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush generously over each bomb.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan immediately after baking.
  9. Let cool 5-10 minutes before serving with marinara or ranch for dipping.

Notes

Seal the dough well to prevent leaks. Avoid overstuffing. Fully preheat the oven for even puffing and browning. Customize fillings to your liking with veggies, sausage, or different cheeses!

Nutrition

Keywords: pizza bombs, pepperoni pizza bombs, easy appetizers, game day snacks, quick pizza recipe

Find it online: https://kierasrecipes.com/easy-pepperoni-pizza-bombs/