Homemade Pizza Scrolls: The Ultimate Recipe & Baking Guide

Homemade Pizza Scrolls: the ultimate lunchbox treat and party snack that will disappear faster than you can say “extra cheese!” Forget store-bought versions loaded with preservatives; we’re diving headfirst into creating these savory spirals of deliciousness from scratch.

Pizza, in its various forms, has a rich history, tracing back to ancient flatbreads enjoyed across the Mediterranean. While the modern pizza we know and love originated in Naples, Italy, the concept of wrapping flavorful fillings in dough is a culinary tradition found worldwide. Think of empanadas, calzones, or even spring rolls – all distant cousins of our beloved homemade pizza scrolls!

But what makes these scrolls so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of soft, chewy dough, tangy tomato sauce, melted cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, all rolled into a convenient, portable package. They’re incredibly versatile, easily customizable to suit any dietary needs or preferences, and, let’s be honest, they’re just plain fun to eat! Whether you’re packing a lunch for your little ones, hosting a casual get-together, or simply craving a comforting snack, these scrolls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to unleash your inner pizzaiolo and create some magic in the kitchen!

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon (3g) instant dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon (6g) salt
• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, plus extra for greasing
• For the Filling:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup (about 75g) finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450g) ground Italian sausage (or your favorite ground meat)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 1/2 cups (about 170g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (about 50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• For Brushing:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Making the Dough:

Okay, let’s get started with the dough! Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than you think. I promise!

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, instant dry yeast, and salt. Make sure everything is nicely combined. This helps distribute the yeast evenly throughout the flour.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a shaggy dough forms. It will be a little sticky, and that’s perfectly fine.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
4. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is where the magic happens! The yeast is working its wonders, creating those lovely air pockets that make the scrolls so fluffy.

Preparing the Filling:

While the dough is rising, let’s get that delicious filling ready. This is where you can really customize the flavors to your liking!

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
2. Brown the Sausage: Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants greasy pizza scrolls!
3. Add Tomato Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Cool the Filling: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly. This is important because you don’t want to melt the cheese when you assemble the scrolls.

Assembling the Pizza Scrolls:

Now for the fun part – putting everything together! This is where your creativity can shine.

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the scrolls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches (30×45 cm).
3. Spread the Filling: Spread the cooled tomato sauce mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border along one of the long edges.
4. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the tomato sauce mixture. Don’t be shy with the cheese!
5. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
6. Cut into Scrolls: Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the log into 1-inch thick slices. You should get about 12-18 scrolls.
7. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the scrolls, cut-side up, on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each scroll.

Baking the Pizza Scrolls:

Almost there! Just a little bit of baking time and you’ll be enjoying warm, cheesy pizza scrolls.

1. Prepare the Brush: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and dried oregano.
2. Brush the Scrolls: Brush the tops of the scrolls with the olive oil and oregano mixture. This will give them a beautiful golden color and add extra flavor.
3. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the scrolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Cool Slightly: Let the scrolls cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly further. This will prevent them from getting soggy.

Serving Suggestions:

These pizza scrolls are best served warm. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• Enjoy them as part of a pizza-themed party.
• Pack them in lunchboxes for a delicious and satisfying treat.
• Add some veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrients.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of feta would be delicious.
• Meat Variations: If you’re not a fan of Italian sausage, you can use ground beef, pepperoni, or even cooked chicken.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These pizza scrolls freeze well. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy making and eating these homemade pizza scrolls as much as I do! They’re a fun and delicious treat that everyone will love.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Homemade Pizza Scrolls are more than just a snack; they’re a delightful experience waiting to happen. From the satisfyingly soft dough to the explosion of savory flavors, every bite is a testament to the joy of homemade goodness. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a fun, easy, and incredibly delicious treat.

Why is it a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the sheer deliciousness, these scrolls are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for a quick lunch, a fun after-school snack, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering. Imagine serving a platter of these warm, cheesy scrolls at your next party – they’ll be gone in minutes, I guarantee it! Plus, making them from scratch is surprisingly simple, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is simply divine. It’s a sensory experience from start to finish!

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. While I’ve shared my favorite combination, the possibilities are truly endless. Craving something spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling. Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be fantastic additions. For a vegetarian option, try using pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkle of parmesan on top.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

These Homemade Pizza Scrolls are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a dipping sauce. Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a simple pesto would also be amazing. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of soup.

Here are a few more ideas to spark your creativity:

* Mini Pizza Scrolls: Make smaller scrolls for bite-sized appetizers.
* Sweet Pizza Scrolls: Swap the savory fillings for Nutella and banana or cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
* Breakfast Pizza Scrolls: Fill them with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon or sausage for a delicious breakfast on the go.
* Gluten-Free Pizza Scrolls: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these scrolls suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of homemade pizza scrolls for yourself. I know you’ll love them as much as I do!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and toppings to create your own signature version.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve made these delicious Homemade Pizza Scrolls, please share your photos and comments. Let me know what variations you tried, what dipping sauces you used, and how much everyone enjoyed them. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps inspire others to try this recipe as well. You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or even send me an email. I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy baking!

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