Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sticks with Mozzarella easy to make

Introduction

Cheesy pepperoni pizza sticks are the ultimate comfort snack, combining everything people love about pizza into a fun, handheld format. With golden baked dough, melted mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni, these pizza sticks are irresistibly crispy on the outside and perfectly gooey on the inside. Served warm with marinara sauce for dipping, they make an excellent appetizer, party snack or quick family meal.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its simplicity. Using refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough significantly reduces preparation time while still delivering excellent results. Additionally, the garlic butter brushed on top enhances flavor and gives the sticks a bakery-style finish. Because the recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, it is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

This guide walks you through the preparation step by step, while also offering helpful tips, variations and serving ideas. Whether you are cooking for children, hosting friends or satisfying a pizza craving, these cheesy pepperoni pizza sticks are guaranteed to be a hit.

History and Inspiration Behind Pizza Sticks

Pizza has long been one of the most beloved foods worldwide, celebrated for its versatility and comforting flavors. As pizza culture evolved, creative adaptations emerged to make it easier to serve and enjoy in different settings. Pizza sticks are one such adaptation, inspired by classic breadsticks and stuffed pizza concepts.

The idea of wrapping cheese and toppings inside dough reflects Italian stuffed breads as well as American snack culture. Pepperoni, a staple of American-style pizza, adds bold flavor and pairs perfectly with mozzarella. Meanwhile, garlic butter draws inspiration from pizzeria breadsticks, bringing familiarity and richness to the dish.

Today, pizza sticks are especially popular at parties, sports events and family dinners because they are portable, shareable and easy to dip. This recipe captures those qualities while remaining approachable for home cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients

1 (13.8 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough
or 2 tubes crescent roll dough
8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
40 slices pepperoni
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Marinara sauce for dipping

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning. This also makes cleanup easier once baking is complete.

Step 2: Prepare the dough

Unroll the pizza dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into eight equal rectangles. Try to keep the pieces uniform so the pizza sticks bake evenly.

If using crescent roll dough, separate the dough into triangles, then pinch two triangles together to form a rectangle. Press the seams firmly so they do not open during baking.

Step 3: Assemble the pizza sticks

Place four to five slices of pepperoni in the center of each dough rectangle. Arrange them evenly so every bite includes flavor.

Lay one mozzarella string cheese stick directly on top of the pepperoni. The pepperoni acts as a barrier, helping prevent the cheese from leaking during baking.

Step 4: Roll and seal the dough

Carefully roll the dough around the pepperoni and cheese, starting from one long side. Pinch the seams and both ends tightly to seal the filling inside completely. Proper sealing is essential to keep the cheese from escaping while baking.

Place each rolled pizza stick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

Step 5: Prepare the garlic butter topping

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning if using. Mix well until evenly blended.

Using a pastry brush, generously brush the garlic butter over the tops of the pizza sticks. This step enhances flavor and creates a golden, glossy finish once baked.

Step 6: Bake the pizza sticks

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 11 to 15 minutes. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and dough type.

The pizza sticks are ready when the dough is golden brown and fully cooked, and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the dough.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Remove the pizza sticks from the oven and allow them to cool for one to two minutes. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

These pizza sticks are best enjoyed fresh while the cheese is still stretchy and the dough remains crisp.

Nutritional Information (Estimated per Serving)

Values may vary depending on dough and cheese brand, but an approximate breakdown per pizza stick is:

Calories: 280–320 kcal
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Sodium: Moderate
Calcium: Moderate from mozzarella

This dish is indulgent and best enjoyed occasionally, making it ideal for parties, game days or special treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make pizza sticks ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the pizza sticks a few hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for best texture.

Can I freeze pizza sticks?

Absolutely. Freeze unbaked or baked pizza sticks on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F, adding a few extra minutes.

What other fillings can I use?

You can substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage, ham, bacon or vegetables. Spinach, mushrooms and bell peppers work well when finely chopped and pre-cooked.

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of string cheese?

Yes, but string cheese helps keep the filling contained. If using shredded cheese, pack it tightly and seal the dough carefully.

Can I make them spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or use spicy pepperoni. You can also serve them with spicy marinara or hot sauce.

What dipping sauces pair well with pizza sticks?

Marinara is classic, but ranch dressing, garlic aioli, pesto or buffalo sauce also pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Cheesy pepperoni pizza sticks are a crowd-pleasing snack that delivers all the comfort of pizza in a fun, dippable form. With crispy dough, melted mozzarella and savory pepperoni, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and satisfying. The garlic butter topping elevates their flavor, while marinara sauce adds freshness and acidity.

Because they are quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, these pizza sticks are perfect for parties, family dinners or casual snacking. Whether served as an appetizer or the main attraction, they are guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Golden baked cheesy pepperoni pizza sticks filled with melted mozzarella, brushed with garlic butter and served with marinara sauce.

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