Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Author: Charlotte Wagner
Published:
Updated:

Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried making Pepperoni Pizza Bombs yet, you’re in for the tastiest little surprise! These bite-sized bundles of joy combine everything we love about pizza, the gooey cheese, the zesty pepperoni, that garlicky buttery crust, all wrapped up in one perfect pop-in-your-mouth package. I first made these for a last-minute game night years ago when I needed something quick but impressive, and now my family requests them constantly.

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs 1

What I love most is how versatile they are. Need a party appetizer that disappears fast? Pizza bombs. Want a fun weeknight dinner the kids will actually eat? Pizza bombs. Midnight snack craving? You guessed it, pizza bombs to the rescue! The best part is they come together with just a few simple ingredients you probably already have in your fridge. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll understand why they’ve become my go-to recipe for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Why Youโ€™ll Love These Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Listen, I donโ€™t just make these pepperoni pizza bombs because theyโ€™re delicious (though, wow, are they ever!). Theyโ€™ve earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation for so many reasons:

  • Crazy easy: Weโ€™re talking biscuit dough, a few toppings, and 20 minutes in the oven. Even my 10-year-old niece can make these without supervision (mostly).
  • Kid magnet: Picky eaters? Gone. Iโ€™ve watched vegetable-hating children inhale these while begging for seconds. The magic of pizza in bite form!
  • Party hero: One batch disappears faster than you can say โ€œappetizer.โ€ I bring them to every potluck and always get asked for the recipe.
  • Customizable: Swap pepperoni for sausage, add veggies, go wild with cheeses โ€“ the dough pockets handle it all. My sister makes a killer buffalo chicken version!
  • Freezer friendly: Make a double batch and stash some for emergency snack attacks. A quick reheat and they taste fresh-baked.

Seriously, these little bombs solve so many food dilemmas. Game day? Covered. Last-minute guests? Sorted. โ€œMom, Iโ€™m hungryโ€ whines? Silenced. Theyโ€™re the culinary equivalent of a superhero cape.

Ingredients for Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Okay, let’s gather our pizza bomb arsenal! The beauty of this recipe is how simple the ingredient list is – I bet you’ve got most of this in your kitchen right now. Here’s everything you’ll need, broken down so you can grab-and-go at the store:

For the Dough Base

  • 1 can (16.5 oz) biscuit dough – The flaky kind works best here, not the layered variety. Trust me, I learned this the hard way after a messy kitchen experiment!
  • 3 tablespoons butter – For greasing the pan. Use the real stuff – it makes all the difference in flavor.

The Irresistible Filling

  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce – Use your favorite jarred kind or homemade. I always steal a spoonful straight from the jar while cooking – chef’s privilege!
  • 30-40 slices pepperoni – About 2 oz. I prefer the smaller 1-inch diameter slices that fit perfectly in our little dough pockets.
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese – Buy it in a block and cube it yourself. Pre-shredded won’t melt as beautifully (plus it’s got anti-caking agents – yuck!).

That Garlic Butter Magic

  • 1/4 cup butter, melted – This is for the glorious golden topping
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh is best! My grandma would roll over in her grave if I suggested garlic powder here.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – That classic pizza flavor in every bite
  • Salt and pepper – Just a pinch of each to wake up all those flavors
  • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan – For that final cheesy sprinkle before baking

See? Nothing fancy, just good, honest ingredients that come together to create something magical. Now let’s get our hands doughy and make some pizza magic happen!

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs 2

How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Alright, let’s turn these simple ingredients into little pockets of pizza perfection! I’ve made these pepperoni pizza bombs more times than I can count, and I’ve learned all the tricks to get them just right. Follow along and you’ll be snacking on these golden beauties in no time.

Preparing the Dough and Filling

First things first – preheat that oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). While it’s warming up, line your baking sheet with parchment paper and give it a quick butter rub. This isn’t just for non-stick insurance – it adds that extra buttery goodness to the bottoms of our pizza bombs.

Now for the fun part! Pop open that biscuit can (you know that satisfying *pop* never gets old). Here’s my pro tip: work with one biscuit at a time and keep the rest covered so they don’t dry out. Use your fingers to gently flatten each biscuit half into about a 3-inch circle – no rolling pin needed! The warmth of your hands makes the dough more pliable.

Assembly line time! For each dough circle: dab about ยฝ teaspoon of marinara (too much makes it soggy), add one pepperoni slice (fold it if needed), and top with a cheese cube. This is where I always sneak an extra pepperoni slice – shhh, our little secret!

Now comes the crucial sealing step. Bring up the edges and pinch firmly to seal – like you’re making a little dough purse. I do a sort of fold-and-twist motion to make sure no cheesy goodness escapes during baking. If you see any gaps, just pinch them closed. Place each sealed bomb seam-side down on your prepared pan.

Baking and Serving

While our little pizza bombs are waiting for their butter bath, let’s make that magical garlic topping. Melt the butter and stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. The aroma alone will make your kitchen smell like an Italian bistro!

Using a pastry brush (or heck, even a spoon if you’re like me and can never find the brush), generously coat each pizza bomb with the garlic butter. Don’t be shy – this is what gives them that gorgeous golden color and irresistible flavor. Finish with a sprinkling of Parmesan because… well, more cheese is always better!

Into the oven they go for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re puffed up and beautifully golden brown. Let them cool just enough so you don’t burn your mouth (learned that the hard way!), then serve with warm marinara for dipping. Watch how fast they disappear – I guarantee there won’t be leftovers!

Tips for Perfect Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

After making countless batches of these pizza bombs (some more successful than others, I’ll admit!), I’ve picked up some foolproof tricks to guarantee perfection every time. Here are my hard-earned lessons:

  • Keep that dough cool
    Biscuit dough gets sticky when it’s too warm. If your kitchen’s hot or your hands are warm, chill the dough for 10 minutes before working with it. I learned this after a particularly messy attempt where my bombs looked more like pizza pancakes!
  • Cheese choices matter
    While mozzarella is classic, don’t be afraid to mix it up. Part-skim mozzarella melts beautifully but can be a bit stringy – great for presentation! For extra gooeyness, try mixing in some Monterey Jack. And if you’re feeling fancy, a tiny cube of fresh mozzarella in each bomb creates an incredible molten center.
  • Avoid the dreaded soggy bottom
    Three secrets: 1) Don’t overdo the sauce – a tiny dab is plenty. 2) Make sure your pepperoni isn’t greasy (pat slices with a paper towel if needed). 3) That buttered baking sheet isn’t just for flavor – it helps crisp up the bottoms perfectly.
  • The sealing is sacred
    Take an extra second to really pinch those edges closed. I like to gently roll each sealed bomb between my palms to smooth out any cracks. If cheese leaks out during baking, it’s not the end of the world – just call them “rustic” and no one will complain!
Pepperoni Pizza Bombs 3

Variations to Try

One of the best things about pepperoni pizza bombs is how easily you can mix things up! Here are some of my favorite twists that always get rave reviews:

Vegetarian Delight

Skip the pepperoni and load up with diced bell peppers, sautรฉed mushrooms, or spinach. I love adding a little ricotta cheese for creaminess – itโ€™s like a mini calzone explosion!

Spicy Upgrade

For those who like it hot, swap regular pepperoni for spicy and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter. My husband says itโ€™s like โ€œpizza with a personality!โ€

Meat Loverโ€™s Dream

Mix in some cooked Italian sausage or crumbled bacon with the pepperoni. Just donโ€™t overstuff – trust me, Iโ€™ve had a few bombs โ€œexplodeโ€ from being too greedy with the fillings!

Breakfast Twist

Who says pizza bombs are just for lunch or dinner? Fill them with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and a sprinkle of cheddar for the ultimate grab-and-go breakfast. My kids call them โ€œpizza pancakesโ€ and beg for them on weekends!

The beauty of these variations is that they all start with the same simple dough base. So get creative and make them your own – thatโ€™s half the fun!

Storing and Reheating

Here’s the thing about pepperoni pizza bombs – they rarely last long enough to need storing! But when they do (or when you’re smart and make a double batch), here’s how to keep them tasting fresh and delicious:

Fridge Storage

  • Let them cool completely first – no one likes a sweaty container!
  • Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to 3 days.
  • Pro tip: Keep the marinara sauce separate to avoid soggy bombs.

Freezing Like a Pro

  • Flash freeze unbaked bombs on a tray first, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months.
  • Already baked? They freeze beautifully too! Just wrap each one individually in foil first.
  • Label with the date – frozen pizza bombs still disappear fast in my house!

Reheating Magic

  • Oven method: 350ยฐF for 10-15 minutes (15 if frozen). I like to brush with a little fresh garlic butter first.
  • Air fryer: 350ยฐF for 5-8 minutes – gets them crispy like they’re fresh from the oven!
  • Microwave works in a pinch (30-60 seconds), but they won’t be as crispy. Still tasty though!

Fun fact: I always keep a stash in my freezer for unexpected guests or those “too tired to cook” nights. They reheat so well that no one will ever guess they weren’t made fresh – our little secret!

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs 4

Nutrition Information

Okay, let’s be real – we’re not eating pepperoni pizza bombs because they’re health food! But if you’re curious about what’s in these tasty little bundles (or need to satisfy someone’s dietary questions), here’s the scoop. Remember, these numbers are estimates – your exact counts might vary slightly depending on brands and how generous you are with the cheese!

  • Serving size: 1 pizza bomb (about 1.5 oz)
  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total fat: 12g (6g saturated, 4g unsaturated)
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Sugar: 1g

A few quick notes from my kitchen experiments: Using part-skim mozzarella can shave off about 20 calories per bomb. And if you’re watching sodium, look for low-sodium pepperoni – it makes a bigger difference than you’d think! But honestly? Sometimes you just gotta enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness without overthinking it. Everything in moderation, right?

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of canned biscuits?

Absolutely! While canned biscuits are super convenient, homemade pizza dough works great too. Just roll it out to about ยผ-inch thickness and cut into 3-inch circles. The texture will be slightly chewier – more like a mini calzone. My Sunday dough recipe makes perfect pizza bombs!

How long do these stay fresh?

Honestly? About 5 minutes once my family spots them! But realistically, they’re best eaten fresh from the oven. If you must store them, they’ll keep airtight at room temp for about 4 hours, or refrigerated for 3 days (reheat before serving).

Can I make these ahead?

You bet! Assemble them up to 24 hours ahead and keep covered in the fridge until baking time. Or freeze unbaked bombs for up to 2 months – just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen.

Help! My cheese leaked everywhere!

Oops – been there! First, don’t worry – they’ll still taste amazing. Next time: 1) Make sure your seams are really pinched tight, 2) Don’t overstuff (I know it’s tempting!), and 3) Chill assembled bombs for 10 minutes before baking to help the dough firm up.

What’s the best dipping sauce?

Marinara is classic, but get creative! My family loves ranch dressing for dipping, or try pesto for an herby twist. Last Christmas I served them with warmed Alfredo sauce – total game changer!

More Cheesy Snacks to Try Next

If you loved these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs, youโ€™ll definitely want to try these next:

Each one is stuffed, cheesy, and guaranteed to satisfy every comfort food craving!

Time to Make These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs!

These Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are everything you love about pizza, gooey cheese, zesty pepperoni, and golden, buttery dough, all rolled up into irresistible bite-sized snacks. Theyโ€™re quick to make, family-friendly, and perfect for parties, game nights, or even a fun dinner idea.

Crispy on the outside and stuffed with melty goodness inside, each bite bursts with classic pizza flavor. Serve them with a side of warm marinara sauce and watch them disappear in minutes!

Iโ€™d love to see your pizza bomb creations ๐Ÿ• tag me on Instagram, follow along on Facebook, or drop a comment below sharing how yours turned out!

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Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Recipe

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs


  • Author: Charlotte
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 16 balls 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are a delicious and fun way to enjoy all the flavors of pizza in a bite-sized snack. Perfect for parties, game nights, or a tasty appetizer, these little pockets of cheesy goodness are always a hit.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons butter, for greasing the pan
  • 16 ยฝ oz can of biscuit dough (465 g), 1 can
  • Marinara sauce
  • Sliced pepperoni
  • 8 oz ball of mozzarella cheese (225 g), cut into cubes
  • Butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Shredded Parmesan cheese, for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and grease with butter.
  2. Cut each biscuit in half. Press each half into a circle with your thumb.
  3. Place a small dollop of marinara sauce, 1 pepperoni slice, and 1 cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each biscuit round.
  4. Bring the edges up and over, pressing them together and ensuring there are no gaps for the filling to leak out. Lay the pizza bombs on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Combine the melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl.
  6. Brush the butter mixture onto each pizza bomb and top with shredded Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bombs have nicely browned.
  8. Once they are cool enough to handle, serve with marinara sauce alongside.

Notes

  • For a variation, try adding other toppings like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or sausage inside the pizza bombs.
  • If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
  • Make sure to seal the edges of the dough well to prevent any cheese from oozing out during baking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ball
  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg

Keywords: pepperoni pizza bombs, easy appetizer, party snacks, quick pizza bites

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    Charlotte Wagner

    Founder ofย Recipes By Charlotte, simplifying elegant settings and healthy meals. Explore our family's best recipes, adding a sprinkle of happiness to your life. Here you will find loads of sweet recipes with a few savory ones for good measure. Feel free to message me with any questions!

    Thanks for stopping by! โค๏ธ

    About Me

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