Pizza snack bites – bite-sized pieces of pizza dough stuffed with pepperoni and cheese, then baked to golden perfection. These pizza bites are easy to make and perfect for a quick snack or appetizer when you're entertaining guests.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in the home – pizza dough, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and various seasonings. However, if you don't usually cook Italian food you might need to pick up some Italian seasoning blend and parmesan cheese next time you're at the supermarket. Additionally, pizza sauce for dipping is a must-have to complete this delicious snack.
Pizza Snack Bites Recipe Ingredients
Pizza dough: The base of our snack bites, it can be homemade or store-bought.
Mozzarella cheese: Provides that classic, melty pizza cheese pull.
Pepperoni: Adds a spicy kick to the bites, but could be substituted with other pizza toppings of choice.
Olive oil: Used to brush the top of the bites for a golden finish.
Garlic powder: Enhances the flavor of the bites.
Italian seasoning blend: A mix of herbs that gives the bites an authentic Italian taste.
Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top before baking for a salty, cheesy crust.
Pizza sauce: Served on the side for dipping.
One reader, Batholomew Schulz says:
These pizza snack bites are a game-changer! They're so easy to make and taste absolutely delicious. The combination of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and flavorful seasonings is just perfect. Plus, they're great for parties or a quick snack. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Techniques Required for Making Pizza Snack Bites
How to divide dough into 16 pieces: Divide the pizza dough into 16 equal portions to ensure that each pizza snack bite is uniform in size and cooks evenly.
How to roll out the dough into a ¼-inch thick circle: Roll each portion of dough into a ¼-inch thick circle to create a base for the pizza snack bites.
How to add equal parts cheese and pepperoni into the center of each circle: Place an equal amount of mozzarella cheese and sliced pepperoni in the center of each dough circle to ensure a balanced filling in each pizza snack bite.
How to pinch together the corners of the dough and create a ball: Seal the edges of the dough together to encase the cheese and pepperoni, forming a ball shape for each pizza snack bite.
How to brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle on garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese: Brush the tops of the pizza snack bites with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese to add flavor and enhance the appearance of the bites.
How to bake for about 20 minutes or until the dough is fully cooked and the rolls are golden brown: Bake the pizza snack bites for approximately 20 minutes or until the dough is fully cooked and the tops are golden brown to ensure they are cooked to perfection.
How to serve with warmed pizza sauce for dipping: Serve the pizza snack bites with warmed pizza sauce for dipping, enhancing the overall flavor and enjoyment of the dish.
How To Make Pizza Snack Bites
These easy pizza snack bites serve chewy and cheesy rolls made from 2 kinds of cheese, pepperoni, and pizza sauce for a quick and tasty dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbpizza dough
- 8ozmozzarella cheese,cut into 16 cubes, or shredded
- 3ozsliced pepperoni,chopped
- 2tbspolive oil
- ¼tspgarlic powder
- ¼tspItalian seasoning blend
- 2tbspparmesan cheese,grated
- pizza sauce,for serving
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray, set aside.
-
Divide dough into 16 pieces. Roll each out into a ¼-inch thick circle.
-
Add equal parts cheese and pepperoni into the center of each circle. Pinch together the corners of the dough and create a ball.
-
Place the balls, seam side down, into the prepared baking dish.
-
After all the balls have been made and are in the dish, brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle on garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese.
-
Bake for about 20 minutes or until the dough is fully cooked and the rolls are golden brown.
-
Serve with warmed pizza sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 223.78kcal
- Fat: 11.72g
- Saturated Fat: 4.88g
- Trans Fat: 0.12g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.61g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.16g
- Carbohydrates: 19.48g
- Fiber: 1.03g
- Sugar: 0.52g
- Protein: 9.60g
- Cholesterol: 25.32mg
- Sodium: 512.12mg
- Calcium: 158.52mg
- Potassium: 77.92mg
- Iron: 1.32mg
- Vitamin A: 40.48µg
- Vitamin C: 0.06mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Pizza Snack Bites
When preparing the pizza dough, ensure it is at room temperature before dividing and rolling it out. This will make the dough easier to handle and it will hold its shape better when filled with the mozzarella cheese and pepperoni. Additionally, when sealing the dough around the fillings, be sure to pinch the edges firmly to prevent any cheese or pepperoni from leaking out during the baking process.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pizza Snack Bites
Plan ahead: Prepare the pizza dough and cut the mozzarella and pepperoni in advance to streamline the assembly process.
Use store-bought dough: Save time by using pre-made pizza dough from the grocery store instead of making it from scratch.
Prep in bulk: Double or triple the recipe and freeze the extra pizza snack bites for quick and convenient future snacks.
Organize ingredients: Arrange all the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe before starting to cook for a more efficient cooking process.
Multi-task: While the pizza snack bites are baking, use that time to prepare the dipping sauce or clean up the kitchen to save time later.
Substitute Ingredients For Pizza Snack Bites Recipe
pizza dough - Substitute with puff pastry: Puff pastry can be used as a flaky and buttery alternative to pizza dough, adding a different texture to the snack bites.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can provide a sharper flavor and a different texture, adding a unique twist to the pizza snack bites.
sliced pepperoni - Substitute with diced ham: Diced ham can offer a smoky and savory flavor, providing a delicious alternative to the traditional pepperoni.
olive oil - Substitute with melted butter: Melted butter can add a rich and creamy flavor to the snack bites, complementing the other ingredients.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the snack bites.
italian seasoning blend - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence can offer a fragrant and floral herb blend, adding a unique and sophisticated flavor to the snack bites.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with asiago cheese: Asiago cheese can provide a nuttier and slightly tangy flavor, adding a different dimension to the snack bites.
pizza sauce - Substitute with marinara sauce: Marinara sauce can offer a slightly chunkier texture and a more robust flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the snack bites.
How to Beautifully Present Pizza Snack Bites
Elevate the pizza dough: Use a high-quality, artisanal pizza dough to ensure a perfect base for the snack bites. Hand-stretch the dough to achieve a thin, crispy texture that will impress the judges.
Artfully arrange the snack bites: Place the pizza snack bites on a sleek, modern serving platter in a circular pattern, creating an eye-catching display that showcases the golden-brown crust and savory fillings.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil and parsley over the snack bites to add a pop of vibrant color and a touch of aromatic freshness to the dish.
Present with precision: Use tweezers to delicately position each snack bite on the platter, ensuring uniformity and attention to detail that reflects a high level of culinary expertise.
Accompany with a drizzle of sauce: Create an elegant design on the platter using a squeeze bottle to drizzle pizza sauce in a decorative pattern, adding a gourmet touch to the presentation.
Enhance with a dusting of parmesan: Just before serving, finely grate parmesan cheese over the snack bites, adding a final flourish of flavor and sophistication to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Pizza Snack Bites
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food.
- Baking dish: A dish used for baking food in the oven.
- Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough.
- Non-stick spray: A cooking spray used to prevent food from sticking to cookware.
- Brush: A tool used for applying oil or sauces onto food.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients.
- Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
- Knife: A tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Utensils used to measure dry or liquid ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Pizza Snack Bites for Later
Allow the pizza snack bites to cool completely before storing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or losing their crispy texture.
Place the cooled pizza snack bites in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If using a container, make sure to place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of snack bites to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the container or bag of pizza snack bites in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
To freeze the pizza snack bites, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the snack bites to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, remove the desired number of snack bites from the freezer and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. No need to thaw before reheating.
How To Reheat Leftover Pizza Snack Bites
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pizza snack bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method will help restore the crispiness of the dough and ensure the filling is hot and gooey.
For a quicker option, use your microwave. Place the pizza snack bites on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as the dough may become tough and chewy. To prevent the snack bites from becoming soggy, place a paper towel underneath them to absorb any excess moisture.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover pizza snack bites. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the snack bites in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method will give you the closest result to freshly baked snack bites.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover pizza snack bites to the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through and the bottom is crispy. Flip the snack bites and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to crisp up the other side. This method works well if you prefer a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior.
Interesting Trivia About Pizza Snack Bites
The pizza snack bites recipe is a fun and versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings such as vegetables, different types of cheese, or even cooked meats. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover pizza dough and ingredients, reducing food waste. It's also a convenient and portable snack that can be enjoyed on the go or as a party appetizer. Additionally, these pizza snack bites are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a perfect option for family gatherings or game nights. They are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a bite-sized form.
Is Making Pizza Snack Bites at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this pizza snack bites recipe largely depends on the quality of ingredients used. While mozzarella cheese and pepperoni can be pricey, the recipe yields 16 snack bites, making it a reasonable option for a household. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10, considering its versatility, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal.
Are Pizza Snack Bites Healthy or Unhealthy?
While pizza snack bites may be a tasty treat, they are not the healthiest option. Here's why:
- The recipe uses pizza dough, which is typically made from refined flour and lacks fiber and nutrients
- Mozzarella cheese and pepperoni are high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess
- The addition of olive oil and parmesan cheese further increases the fat content of the dish
- The recipe lacks any vegetables or fruits, which are essential for a balanced diet
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the regular pizza dough for a whole wheat or cauliflower-based alternative to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Reduce the amount of cheese and pepperoni used, or opt for low-fat cheese and turkey pepperoni to decrease saturated fat and sodium
- Include vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Serve the pizza snack bites with a side salad or vegetable sticks to balance out the meal
- Use a homemade pizza sauce with no added sugar or salt to control the amount of these ingredients in the dish
By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the flavors of pizza snack bites while improving their nutritional value and promoting better overall health.
Editor's Opinion on the Pizza Snack Bites Recipe
This pizza snack bites recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pizza. The combination of mozzarella cheese and pepperoni encased in a golden brown, garlic-infused dough creates a mouthwatering treat. The addition of Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese adds depth of flavor, while the warm pizza sauce for dipping elevates the overall experience. The recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Enhance Your Pizza Snack Bites Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Pizza Snack Bites
Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Pizza Snack Bites
Why trust this Pizza Snack Bites Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with pizza dough, mozzarella cheese, and savory pepperoni. The combination of garlic powder and Italian seasoning blend infuses rich flavors, while the addition of Parmesan cheese elevates the taste. The use of olive oil ensures a perfect golden brown finish. With meticulous attention to detail, these pizza snack bites promise to satisfy your cravings.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!