This recipe for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups is one of those weeknight heroes that started as a way to use up leftover tortillas and ended up as a family favorite. I discovered this combination on a busy evening when I needed to get dinner on the table fast. The result was a warm, comforting snack that tastes like pizza but eats like a handheld treat. The golden tortillas give way to molten mozzarella and the familiar spicy notes of pepperoni, and that contrast between crisp exterior and melty interior is what keeps everyone coming back for more.

I first made these roll-ups for a casual movie night and watched them disappear before the opening credits finished. They are forgiving, easy to customize, and quick to prepare. The assembly is intuitive, so cooks at any skill level can make them look and taste professional. The seasoning blend of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt adds a final aromatic lift that makes the flavors sing. If you are looking for a simple, crowd pleasing recipe that can be ready in under 30 minutes, these roll-ups will become a staple in your collection.

Ingredients

• Small flour tortillas: Use 6 small soft flour tortillas, about 8 inches each. Choose tortillas that are pliable so they roll without cracking. I like the brand that packages them in steam sealed wraps to keep them soft.
• Pizza sauce: 14 ounces of your favorite pizza sauce, about one small jar. San Marzano style or any robust tomato base with oregano works well. If you prefer a lighter touch, use 1 tablespoon per tortilla as a base.
• Mozzarella cheese: 24 ounces shredded mozzarella. Pre-shredded cheese saves time but for the best melt choose whole milk mozzarella shredded at home.
• Pepperoni slices: 80 slices, which comes to roughly 12 to 14 slices per tortilla depending on size. Use classic pepperoni or spicy variety if you like heat.
• Cooking oil: 1 tablespoon neutral oil to brush the tops. Olive oil is fine but a neutral oil gives a more even golden color.
• Seasoning blend: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt. This simple herb blend gives a balanced savory finish.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray or oil a large baking pan to prevent sticking. Preheating ensures even baking and that the cheese melts consistently without the tortilla overbrowning. Prepare the tortillas: Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce evenly over the center, leaving a 1/2 inch border so the sauce does not squeeze out while rolling. Keeping a small border helps the tortilla seal and prevents soggy edges. Add the cheese: Sprinkle approximately 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella per tortilla. Distribute the cheese evenly so each bite has a good melt. If you like extra gooey centers, add up to 1/3 cup. Layer with pepperoni: Place 4 slices of pepperoni on each tortilla. Overlap slightly to keep the filling compact. You can add a few sliced olives or sautéed mushrooms if you want more texture. Roll them up: Roll each tortilla tightly into a wrap, tucking the edge under to seal the seam. Place seam side down in the prepared pan. A tight roll prevents the filling from shifting and promotes even baking. Brush with oil and season: Lightly brush the tops with 1 tablespoon of cooking oil that has been divided among the roll-ups. Mix the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt then sprinkle evenly over the roll-ups for an aromatic crust. Bake: Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the roll-ups are heated through. For a crispier finish, increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees and bake 5 to 8 minutes more, or use an air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 to 8 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning the tortilla edges.

Storage Tips

Allow the roll-ups to cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze unbaked roll-ups on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen roll-ups, bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 18 to 22 minutes from frozen until heated through and golden. Use aluminum foil for reheating if you want a softer exterior, or bake uncovered for a crispier crust. Label the containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the flour tortillas for whole wheat or gluten free tortillas to meet dietary needs. Replace mozzarella with dairy free shredded cheese for a lactose free version. Use turkey pepperoni or thinly sliced cooked chicken for a leaner protein option. If pizza sauce is not available, use marinara or a mixture of crushed tomatoes with a pinch of dried oregano. When substituting ingredients, keep proportions similar to maintain texture. For example, if using a thicker sauce, use slightly less to avoid soggy tortillas.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm alongside a crisp salad or a small bowl of extra pizza sauce for dipping. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or a light sprinkle of Parmesan for color and complexity. These roll-ups are ideal for casual gatherings, packed lunches, or as appetizers for a game day table. Pair with roasted vegetables or a light soup to make a complete meal. For a party, cut each roll-up in half and skewer with a toothpick for easy serving.

Cultural Background

The idea of wrapping pizza ingredients in a thin bread dates back to hand held adaptations of classic Italian pies. Similar concepts appear in calzones and stromboli, which were invented as portable variations of pizza. This roll-up style borrows Italian flavors but translates them into an American friendly form that emphasizes convenience. Over the years, cooks have adapted these handheld formats to include a wide range of fillings and regional spices, turning a simple approach into countless variations enjoyed across family kitchens.

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer, add fresh tomatoes and basil to brighten the fillings. In autumn, incorporate roasted bell peppers and caramelized onions for a deeper flavor. During the holidays, use fennel spiced sausage instead of pepperoni for a festive twist. Swap cheeses with smoked varieties for a winter version that pairs well with darker beers. Small seasonal swaps keep the recipe feeling fresh throughout the year while letting local produce shine.

Meal Prep Tips

Assemble roll-ups ahead of time and place them on a parchment lined tray, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For freezer meal prep, flash freeze the assembled roll-ups on a tray until solid, then store them in a labeled freezer bag. When using frozen roll-ups for meal prep meals, bake straight from frozen and add a few extra minutes of cook time. Pack cooled roll-ups in microwave safe containers with a small cup of sauce for dipping. Use insulated lunch gear to keep them warm until lunchtime.

These roll-ups are an easy way to bring people together. They are fast, adaptable, and full of comforting flavors. Try them with your favorite toppings and enjoy the smiles that follow.