Description

These Pull-Apart Pepperoni Pizza Bites are bite-sized pockets of cheesy, pepperoni-filled goodness baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a party appetizer or snack, these easy-to-make pizza dough balls are brushed with olive oil and Italian seasoning, then baked until golden and gooey inside. Serve warm with pizza sauce for dipping to enjoy a fun and flavorful treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Pizza Bites

1 can refrigerated pizza dough (16 oz)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Serve With

1/2 cup pizza sauce, plus extra for dipping
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping

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Instructions

Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round baking pan or a cast-iron skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Divide dough: Open the pizza dough and divide it into 24 equal pieces to create individual pizza bites.
Fill dough pieces: Flatten each piece into a small circle. Place a pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese and a few mini pepperoni slices in the center of each circle to add flavor inside.
Seal dough balls: Pinch the edges of each dough circle together to seal the filling inside, then roll gently into a smooth ball shape to create the dough pockets.
Arrange in pan: Place the dough balls seam-side down in the prepared pan, arranging them close but not touching so they can expand and bake evenly.
Add seasoning: Brush the tops of the dough balls with olive oil for a golden finish. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and optional grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the pizza bites turn golden brown and are cooked through with melted cheese inside.
Serve warm: Remove from the oven and serve the pizza bites warm with pizza sauce for dipping to enjoy the perfect cheesy, pepperoni snack.

Notes

You can substitute mini pepperoni slices with chopped regular pepperoni if mini slices are unavailable.
For extra cheesiness, add more mozzarella or a mix of cheeses inside the dough balls.
Make sure to pinch edges well to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
These bites are best enjoyed fresh and warm but can be reheated in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Use a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation and great heat distribution.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American