Pizza Poppers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza Poppers are bite-sized snacks packed with classic pizza flavors—gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, tangy tomato sauce—all encased in a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for parties, game day, or as an after-school treat, these little pockets of joy are quick to make and endlessly customizable. They deliver all the deliciousness of pizza in a fun, poppable form.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

refrigerated pizza doughmozzarella cheesemini pepperonis or chopped pepperonipizza saucemarinara sauce (for dipping)Italian seasoninggarlic powderolive oil (for brushing)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut it into small squares, about 2×2 inches.

Place a small spoonful of pizza sauce, a few pieces of pepperoni, and a cube or pinch of mozzarella in the center of each square.

Fold the dough around the filling and pinch the edges to seal, forming a ball.

Place the poppers seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Brush each popper lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20-24 poppers.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 12-15 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use cooked sausage, mushrooms, or bell peppers as alternative fillings.

Swap out mozzarella for cheddar or provolone.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough for a lighter texture.

Make a vegetarian version with olives, onions, and spinach.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.For longer storage, freeze baked poppers for up to 2 months and reheat directly from frozen.

FAQs

Can I make Pizza Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking, or freeze unbaked for later.

Do I need to cook the pepperoni first?

No, since it’s pre-cooked, you can use it straight from the package.

What’s the best dipping sauce?

Marinara is classic, but ranch, garlic butter, or spicy cheese sauce work great too.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pizza dough and check all other ingredients for gluten content.

Can I air fry Pizza Poppers?

Absolutely, cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, checking for a golden, crisp exterior.

What’s the best way to seal the dough?

Pinch the edges firmly or use a fork to crimp them together.

Can kids help make these?

Definitely! Kids can help fill and fold the dough for a fun, hands-on kitchen activity.

How do I prevent them from bursting open?

Avoid overfilling and make sure the dough is sealed tightly.

Can I use puff pastry?

Yes, but keep in mind the texture will be lighter and flakier.

Are they good at room temperature?

They’re best warm but still tasty when cooled, making them great for lunchboxes.

Conclusion

Pizza Poppers are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional pizza, perfect for snacking or serving as party appetizers. With minimal prep and endless options for customization, they’re a must-try for pizza lovers of all ages. Enjoy them hot out of the oven with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear in minutes!

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