The Best Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Recipe: Cheesy Handheld Joy

These delightful pepperoni pizza bombs burst with cheesy, savory goodness that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Crispy on the outside and gooey inside, they pack a flavor punch.

Soft dough wraps around melted mozzarella and spicy pepperoni for an irresistible snack.

Home cooks adore this simple yet impressive appetizer that looks way more complicated than it is.

Perfect for game day, movie nights, or whenever hunger strikes unexpectedly.

Compact and portable, these little bites guarantee smiles and empty plates in minutes.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and create something seriously delicious that everyone will be talking about.

Flavor Swaps For Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

• Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Replace pepperoni with roasted bell peppers, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a colorful plant-based alternative with rich Mediterranean flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap traditional wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy these pizza bombs without compromising taste.
• Spicy Jalapeño Popper Style: Substitute mozzarella with cream cheese and add diced jalapeños for a zesty, kick-up-the-heat version that brings extra excitement to the classic recipe.
• Breakfast Pizza Bomb: Incorporate scrambled eggs, crispy bacon bits, and cheddar cheese inside the dough pocket, transforming the recipe into a morning-friendly handheld meal.

Best Sides With Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

• Elevate Cheese Pull Perfection: Robust Red Wine Pairing
• Uncork a bold Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the rich pepperoni and melted mozzarella, cutting through the savory flavors with its tannic structure and fruity undertones.
• Enhance Freshness: Crisp Green Salad Companion
• Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan to balance the pizza bombs' richness, adding a zesty and refreshing counterpoint to the hearty appetizer.
• Cool Down with Creamy Dipping Sauce
• Whip up a quick ranch or marinara dipping sauce with fresh herbs like basil and parsley, providing a cool, creamy texture that enhances the warm, cheesy pizza bombs.

How To Store Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Properly

• Store cooled pizza bombs in an airtight container, layer with parchment paper between each piece, and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Wrap individual pizza bombs tightly in plastic wrap, place in freezer-safe bags, and freeze for maximum 2 months with proper sealing.
• Warm refrigerated pizza bombs for 30-45 seconds on medium power, checking halfway to prevent overheating and maintain crispy texture.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place pizza bombs on baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crisp.

FAQs For Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

• How difficult is this recipe to make?

This recipe is beginner-friendly and requires basic baking skills. Anyone with minimal kitchen experience can successfully create these pizza bombs with patience and following the steps carefully.

• What type of yeast works best for this recipe?

Active dry yeast or instant yeast are perfect. Make sure the yeast is fresh and not expired to ensure proper rising and texture of the dough.

• Can I prepare the pizza bombs ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pizza bombs and refrigerate them before baking. Just let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before placing them in the oven to ensure even baking.

• What are some alternative filling options?

Consider using different cheeses like cheddar or provolone, and swap pepperoni for ham, cooked sausage, or vegetarian options like spinach and mushrooms.

Why Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Are A Favorite

• Conquer Kitchen Complexity: Perfect for home cooks seeking a moderate challenge without overwhelming techniques, this recipe balances skill and simplicity.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with familiar flavors like pepperoni and mozzarella, these pizza bombs appeal to kids and adults, making them ideal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
• Customize with Creativity: Swap ingredients easily by replacing pepperoni with ham, vegetables, or different cheeses, allowing personalization to match taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Grab-and-Go Goodness: Compact, portable pizza bombs transform traditional pizza into a handheld snack perfect for lunch boxes, picnics, or game day appetizers.

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Ingredient List

• Yeast: A crucial ingredient that helps the dough rise and develop a light, airy texture.
• Flour: The main structural component that provides the base for the pizza bomb.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and helps control yeast activity.
• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and helps create a soft, tender dough.

• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a creamy, melty center with a classic pizza flavor.
• Pepperoni: Adds a spicy and savory meat element to the pizza bombs.
• Marinara Sauce: Introduces a tangy tomato base that complements the cheese and meat.

• Butter, Garlic, Dried Oregano: Create a flavorful herb butter to brush on top of the baked pizza bombs.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty finish and extra layer of cheesy goodness.

How To Bake Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Step 1: Activate Yeast

Create a bubbly yeast mixture by combining warm water and yeast. Let it sit and develop a frothy texture for 5-7 minutes until it becomes wonderfully fragrant.

Step 2: Knead Dough

Mix flour and salt into the yeast mixture. Work the ingredients together until you have a smooth, stretchy dough that feels soft and elastic.

Step 3: Let Dough Rise

Coat the dough with olive oil and cover the bowl. Place in a cozy spot and allow it to expand and rise for 45-60 minutes until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Prepare Dough Portions

Gently deflate the risen dough and separate it into small, even-sized balls on a lightly floured surface.

Step 5: Create Dough Pockets

Flatten each dough ball into a circular shape, creating a gentle indent for filling.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Meat

• Mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni slices

Step 7: Drizzle Sauce

Add a small spoonful of marinara sauce over the cheese and pepperoni.

Step 8: Seal Pizza Bombs

Carefully fold and pinch the edges of each dough pocket, making sure no filling can escape.

Step 9: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the sealed pizza bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

Step 10: Prepare for Baking

Preheat the oven to 375°F and let the pizza bombs rest for 10 minutes.

Step 11: Bake Pizza Bombs

Bake for 12-15 minutes until they turn golden brown and slightly puffy.

Step 12: Prepare Garlic Butter

• Melted butter
• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano

Step 13: Brush with Butter

Immediately after baking, brush each pizza bomb with the garlic-herb butter.

Step 14: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese generously over the warm pizza bombs.

Step 15: Cool and Serve

Let the pizza bombs rest for 3-5 minutes to prevent burning and allow the filling to set before enjoying.

Tips For Better Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

• Activate Yeast Perfectly: Ensure water temperature is between 100-110°F for optimal yeast activation without killing the microorganisms.
• Knead with Care: Work the dough until smooth and elastic, developing gluten for a better texture and preventing tough pizza bombs.
• Control Rising Conditions: Place dough in a draft-free, warm spot around 80-85°F to promote consistent and even rising.
• Seal Edges Carefully: Pinch and fold dough edges thoroughly to prevent cheese and sauce from leaking during baking.
• Brush for Extra Flavor: The garlic-herb butter topping adds a delicious aromatic finish and enhances the overall taste of the pizza bombs.

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Recipe

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4.7 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Pepperoni pizza bombs explode with cheesy, savory goodness that will delight pizza enthusiasts everywhere. Packed with zesty pepperoni and melted mozzarella, these handheld treats offer a perfect blend of comfort and flavor for casual gatherings or quick snacks.

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Ingredients

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Pizza Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup warm water

Filling Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce

Topping Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 clove minced garlic

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Instructions

1. In a spacious mixing bowl, activate the yeast by combining it with warm water, allowing it to foam and become fragrant for approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Gradually incorporate flour and salt into the yeast mixture, kneading until a smooth, elastic dough forms with a consistent texture.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the dough, cover the bowl, and let it rise in a warm environment for about 45-60 minutes until it doubles in volume.
4. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal, golf ball-sized portions on a lightly floured surface.
5. Flatten each dough ball into a small circular disc, creating a pocket for the filling.
6. Place a generous pinch of mozzarella cheese and 2-3 pepperoni slices in the center of each dough disc.
7. Carefully spoon a small amount of marinara sauce over the cheese and pepperoni.
8. Gently fold and seal the edges of each dough pocket, ensuring no filling leaks during baking.
9. Arrange the sealed pizza bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
10. Preheat the oven to 375°F and let the pizza bombs rest for 10 minutes before baking.
11. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and slightly puffy.
12. While baking, prepare the topping by mixing melted butter with minced garlic and dried oregano.
13. Immediately after removing from the oven, brush each pizza bomb with the garlic-herb butter.
14. Generously sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the warm pizza bombs.
15. Allow to cool for 3-5 minutes before serving to prevent burning and let the filling set.

Notes

• Activate yeast precisely by using water at 110-115°F to ensure perfect proofing without killing the live cultures.
• Keep dough hydration consistent by measuring flour carefully, using a kitchen scale for accurate weight measurements.
• Create uniform pizza bombs by using an ice cream scoop or weighing each dough portion to guarantee even cooking and size.
• Transform this recipe into gluten-free options by substituting regular flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture.
• Make vegetarian versions by replacing pepperoni with roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, or plant-based pepperoni alternatives.
• Prevent filling leakage by pinching and rolling edges tightly, using a fork to crimp and seal the dough completely.

• Prep Time: 60 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg