Name: Pizza Sticks 3-Ways Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: For Pepperoni Pizza Sticks:; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp Italian Seasoning; all purpose flour; 13.8 oz pizza dough; 40 pepperoni; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese; pizza sauce; For Vegetarian Pizza Sticks:; 8 oz cremini mushroom; ½ medium red onion; 1 green bell pepper; Kosher salt and black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 13.8 oz pizza dough; ½ cup Mozzarella cheese; ranch dressing; For Margherita Pizza Sticks:; 40 cherry tomatoes; 13.8 oz pizza dough; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup Mozzarella cheese; fresh basil; Pesto; 24 wooden skewers

Savor the diverse flavors of pizza in a fun and innovative way with this Three-Way Pizza Stick recipe. Get a taste of classic pepperoni, flavorful vegetarian, and fresh Margherita-style pizza in easy-to-eat stick form. Ideal for parties, picnics, or a unique dinner, these pizza sticks are sure to excite both kids and adults alike.

Photos of Pizza Sticks 3-Ways Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are quite common and widely available in grocery stores. However, it's important to note that cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas, are used for the vegetarian pizza sticks. They are more flavorful than white mushrooms and lend a meatiness to the vegetarian option. The pizza dough used is store-bought for convenience, but feel free to make your own if you prefer.

Ingredients for Three-Way Pizza Sticks

Olive oil: Used for roasting and flavoring. The oil helps crisp up the pizza dough and adds a rich flavor.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the pepperoni pizza sticks.

Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that gives the pepperoni pizza sticks an Italian flair.

Pizza dough: The base of the pizza sticks. It can be store-bought for convenience or homemade if you prefer.

Pepperoni: A classic pizza topping used for the pepperoni pizza sticks.

Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, umami depth of flavor.

Cremini mushrooms: These mushrooms are more flavorful than their white counterparts and are used for the vegetarian pizza sticks.

Red onion: Adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the vegetarian pizza sticks.

Green bell pepper: Provides a crunchy texture and a fresh flavor.

Mozzarella cheese: A classic pizza cheese that melts beautifully and gives a nice stringy texture.

Cherry tomatoes: Used for the Margherita pizza sticks. They provide freshness and a slight tang to balance out the other flavors.

Fresh basil: Adds a fresh, peppery flavor to the Margherita pizza sticks.

One reader, Augustine Granados says:

The three-way pizza sticks recipe is a game-changer! The variety of flavors and easy-to-follow instructions make it a hit for gatherings. The pepperoni, vegetarian, and margherita options cater to everyone's taste. The crispy dough and flavorful fillings are a definite crowd-pleaser. Try it and thank me later!

Augustine Granados

Techniques Required

How to prepare the pepperoni pizza sticks: This technique involves weaving the pizza dough around folded pepperoni slices on a skewer, ensuring they are secured and spaced properly before baking.

How to roast the vegetables for vegetarian pizza sticks: This technique involves spreading the mushrooms, onion, and bell pepper on a baking sheet, seasoning them, and drizzling with olive oil before roasting until golden brown.

How to weave the dough around the cherry tomatoes for margherita pizza sticks: This technique involves wrapping the pizza dough around the cherry tomatoes on a skewer, ensuring they are secured and spaced properly before baking.

How To Make Pizza Sticks 3-Ways

This 3-in-1 pizza sticks recipe offers various ways to make easy finger foods! Enjoy pepperoni, vegetarian, and Margherita pizza sticks baked in 12 minutes.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Pepperoni Pizza Sticks:

¼cupextra virgin olive oil
½tspgarlic powder
½tspitalian seasoning
all purpose flour,for dusting
13.8ozpizza dough,(1 tube) refrigerated
40pepperoni,slices
2tbspparmesan cheese,grated
pizza sauce,for serving

For Vegetarian Pizza Sticks:

8ozcremini mushroom,cleaned and quartered
½medium red onion,diced
1green bell pepper,seeded and diced
kosher salt and black pepper,to taste
¼tspred pepper flakes
¼cupextra virgin olive oil,divided
13.8ozpizza dough,(1 tube) refrigerated
½cupmozzarella cheese,shredded
ranch dressing,for serving

For Margherita Pizza Sticks:

40cherry tomatoes
13.8ozpizza dough,(1 tube) refrigerated
2tbspextra virgin olive oil
½cupmozzarella cheese,shredded
fresh basil,chopped, for garnish
pesto,for serving
24wooden skewers,(12-inch)

Instructions

Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and line 4 baking sheets, or more, with parchment paper.

Pepperoni Pizza Sticks:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Set aside.
Unroll the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into 8 strips.
Fold 5 pepperoni slices into quarters and thread onto a wooden skewer, spacing about 1-inch apart. Repeat to make 8 skewers total.
Starting at the pointed end of a skewer, weave a dough strip down around the pepperoni slices, pinching at the bottom to secure, and set on a prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining skewers.
Brush the skewers with the seasoned oil and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.
Bake the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the dough is golden brown.
Serve with pizza sauce for dipping.

Vegetarian Pizza Sticks:

Spread the mushrooms, onion, and bell pepper in an even layer on a baking sheet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss to coat.
Roast the vegetables for 15 minutes, until the mushrooms are golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Unroll the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into 8 strips.
Thread 1 piece of each vegetable onto the skewers to make 1 stack, spacing the stacks about 1-inch apart, should have about 4 stacks per skewer. Repeat to make 8 skewers total.
Starting at the pointed end of the skewer, weave a dough strip down around the vegetables, pinching at the bottom to secure, and set on a prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining skewers.
Brush the skewers with the remaining oil and sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese.
Bake the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the dough is golden brown.
Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.

Margherita Pizza Sticks:

Unroll the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into 8 strips.
Thread 5 cherry tomatoes onto a skewer, spacing about 1-inch apart. Repeat to make 8 skewers total.
Starting at the pointed end of the skewer, weave a dough strip down around the tomatoes, pinching at the bottom to secure, and set on a prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining skewers.
Brush the skewers with the olive oil and sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese.
Bake the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the dough is golden brown.
Garnish with the basil and serve with pesto for dipping. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 465.24kcal
Fat: 30.61g
Saturated Fat: 9.96g
Trans Fat: 0.76g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.34g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.00g
Carbohydrates: 27.98g
Fiber: 1.97g
Sugar: 1.57g
Protein: 18.33g
Cholesterol: 59.16mg
Sodium: 1211.46mg
Calcium: 127.82mg
Potassium: 315.03mg
Iron: 2.52mg
Vitamin A: 34.58µg
Vitamin C: 7.83mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Pizza Sticks

When threading the ingredients onto the skewers, ensure they are not too tightly packed. This allows the pizza dough to bake evenly and thoroughly around each ingredient. Also, when weaving the dough around the ingredients, try to cover as much of the ingredients as possible. This creates a nice balance of dough and filling in each bite.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the pizza dough and chop the vegetables the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line to streamline the process of threading the skewers and wrapping the dough around the fillings.

Multi-task: While one batch is baking in the oven, prepare the next set of pizza sticks to maximize efficiency.

Pre-cut ingredients: Purchase pre-sliced pepperoni and pre-shredded cheese to cut down on prep time.

Use kitchen shears: Use kitchen shears to quickly and evenly cut the pizza dough into strips, saving time compared to using a knife.

Bake in batches: Utilize multiple baking sheets and bake the pizza sticks in batches to expedite the cooking process.

Prep and freeze: Make a large batch of pizza sticks and freeze them for later use, reducing the need for frequent preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Pizza Sticks 3-Ways Recipe

extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil.
pizza dough - Substitute with whole wheat pizza dough: Whole wheat pizza dough adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, making it a healthier alternative to regular pizza dough.
pepperoni - Substitute with turkey pepperoni: Turkey pepperoni offers a leaner option with similar flavor, making it a healthier alternative to traditional pepperoni.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and tangy flavor to parmesan, making it a suitable substitute in the recipe.
pizza sauce - Substitute with marinara sauce: Marinara sauce can be used as a substitute for pizza sauce, providing a rich tomato flavor with herbs and spices.
cremini mushroom - Substitute with portobello mushroom: Portobello mushrooms have a meaty texture and rich flavor, making them a great substitute for cremini mushrooms in the recipe.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and sweeter flavor compared to red onions, making them a suitable substitute in the recipe.
green bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers provide a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color, making them a great substitute for green bell peppers.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar mild and creamy flavor to mozzarella, making it a suitable substitute in the recipe.
cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes are small and sweet, making them a suitable substitute for cherry tomatoes in the recipe.
pesto - Substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto: Sun-dried tomato pesto offers a rich and tangy flavor, providing a delicious alternative to traditional pesto in the recipe.

Best Way to Present Three-Way Pizza Sticks

Elevate the pizza sticks: Arrange the pizza sticks on a sleek and modern serving platter, ensuring they are neatly aligned and visually appealing.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Add a touch of finesse by drizzling a balsamic reduction in an artistic pattern on the serving platter, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place fresh basil leaves and microgreens on the platter, ensuring each garnish is meticulously positioned to create an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the pizza sticks on sleek slate boards or elevated serving trays to add a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Incorporate thematic elements: Consider incorporating thematic elements such as rustic wooden boards or Italian-inspired ceramics to enhance the overall visual impact of the dish.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the pizza sticks in a visually balanced manner, paying attention to symmetry and spacing to create an eye-catching display.
Highlight contrasting colors: Introduce vibrant elements such as cherry tomatoes and colorful bell peppers to create a visually striking contrast on the serving platter.
Embrace minimalism: Emphasize the beauty of simplicity by opting for minimalistic plating, allowing the pizza sticks to take center stage on the serving platter.

Essential Tools for Making Pizza Sticks

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food.
Baking sheets: Flat metal sheets used for baking and can be lined with parchment paper.
Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets to prevent food from sticking.
Small bowl: A container used for mixing and whisking small amounts of ingredients.
Baking sheet: A flat metal pan used for baking and roasting in the oven.
Wooden skewers: Long, slender wooden sticks used for skewering food items for grilling or baking.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients.
Baking sheet: A flat metal pan used for baking and roasting in the oven.

How To Store and Freeze Three-Way Pizza Sticks

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the three-way pizza sticks recipe:

Let the pizza sticks cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled pizza sticks in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the pizza sticks on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
To freeze:
- Arrange the cooled pizza sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the pizza sticks are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen pizza sticks to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, place the frozen pizza sticks on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. No need to thaw before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pizza sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will help restore the crispiness of the pizza dough.
For a quicker option, you can use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the pizza sticks on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
If you prefer a softer crust, wrap the pizza sticks in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes. This method will help retain moisture and prevent the pizza sticks from drying out.
For a crispy exterior and a soft interior, heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush the surface with a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the pizza sticks on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
If you're in a hurry, you can use a microwave to reheat the pizza sticks. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed through. However, keep in mind that this method may result in a softer crust and potentially soggy pizza sticks.

Random Fact About Pizza Sticks

The three-way pizza sticks recipe offers a creative twist on traditional pizza. These pizza sticks are a fun and versatile option for parties, gatherings, or a unique snack. They provide a convenient way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a portable and easy-to-eat format. Whether you're a fan of classic pepperoni, a vegetarian option, or a margherita-inspired treat, these pizza sticks cater to a variety of tastes. They are a great way to enjoy the deliciousness of pizza in a different form.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this three-way pizza sticks recipe varies. The pepperoni and vegetarian options are relatively cost-effective, utilizing common ingredients. However, the margherita version, with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, may be pricier due to the use of specialty ingredients. Overall, this recipe rates a solid 8 for its versatility and appeal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly option for a fun and flavorful meal.

Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The three-way pizza sticks recipe, while creative and appealing, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients in all three variations are pizza dough, cheese, and various toppings, which are generally high in calories, fat, and sodium. The pepperoni pizza sticks are especially unhealthy due to the processed meat, which is high in saturated fat and sodium. The vegetarian pizza sticks are slightly healthier, as they include roasted vegetables, but the overall nutritional value is still compromised by the pizza dough and cheese. The margherita pizza sticks, while featuring cherry tomatoes, are still high in calories and fat due to the pizza dough, cheese, and olive oil.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole wheat pizza dough instead of regular pizza dough to increase fiber content
Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for low-fat cheese alternatives
Include more vegetables in each variation to boost nutrient intake
Use lean protein sources, such as grilled chicken or turkey pepperoni, instead of regular pepperoni
Experiment with alternative dipping sauces, such as homemade tomato sauce or hummus, instead of ranch dressing or pesto, which can be high in fat and calories
Reduce the amount of olive oil used or opt for a healthier cooking spray
Serve the pizza sticks with a side salad to increase overall nutrient intake and balance the meal

Editor's Thoughts on Three-Way Pizza Sticks

The three-way pizza sticks recipe is a delightful and versatile twist on traditional pizza. The pepperoni pizza sticks are savory and satisfying, while the vegetarian option offers a delicious medley of roasted vegetables. The margherita pizza sticks are a fresh and flavorful take on a classic favorite. The use of wooden skewers adds a fun and interactive element to the dish, making it perfect for parties or casual gatherings. The recipe is easy to follow and allows for customization, making it suitable for a wide range of tastes. Overall, this recipe is a creative and enjoyable way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a new and exciting format.

Enhance Your Pizza Sticks 3-Ways Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic and parmesan cheese, creating a flavorful and healthy side dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with honey and infused with aromatic thyme, making a delightful accompaniment to the pizza sticks.

Crispy Zucchini Fries: Crispy and golden zucchini fries seasoned with herbs and spices, providing a delicious and satisfying side dish option.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Three-Way Pizza Sticks

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a delicious and filling meal with these savory stuffed bell peppers, packed with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices.

Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: Enjoy a refreshing and healthy fruit salad with a zesty honey-lime dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying dessert or snack.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy tomato basil soup, made with fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a touch of cream for a rich and velvety texture.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Pizza Sticks

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy and indulgent, this dish combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful alfredo sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. The combination of savory chicken and velvety sauce is sure to satisfy any craving for comfort food.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef are simmered in a savory, creamy sauce, and served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. The hearty and comforting flavors of this classic dish are perfect for a cozy night in.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a crunchy oat topping in this classic apple crisp. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.

Why trust this Pizza Sticks 3-Ways Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza, providing a versatile and customizable option for any occasion. With a focus on fresh ingredients and flavorful combinations, these pizza sticks are a fun and innovative way to enjoy everyone's favorite Italian dish. The step-by-step instructions and attention to detail ensure a successful outcome, while the variety of options cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe to create a memorable and delicious culinary experience for you and your loved ones.

Want to share your own creative pizza stick variations? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section and let us know!

FAQ:

What is the best way to ensure the pizza sticks don't burn in the oven?

To prevent the pizza sticks from burning in the oven, make sure to preheat the oven to the specified temperature and line the baking sheets with parchment paper. Additionally, keep an eye on the pizza sticks while they are baking and rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.

Can I prepare the pizza sticks in advance and reheat them later?

Yes, you can prepare the pizza sticks in advance and reheat them later. After baking, allow the pizza sticks to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat the pizza sticks in the oven at 350 degrees F for a few minutes until they are heated through.

Can I customize the toppings for the pizza sticks?

Absolutely! You can customize the toppings for the pizza sticks to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of meats, vegetables, and cheeses to create your own unique pizza stick variations.

How can I prevent the wooden skewers from burning in the oven?

To prevent the wooden skewers from burning in the oven, it's important to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using. This will help to prevent the skewers from charring or catching fire during the baking process.

Can I make the pizza sticks without using wooden skewers?

Yes, if you prefer not to use wooden skewers, you can simply roll the dough and toppings into traditional pizza sticks and bake them on a lined baking sheet. The skewers add a fun presentation and make the pizza sticks easy to pick up and enjoy, but they are not essential for the recipe.