Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These irresistible pizza bombs combine everything you adore about pizza in a fun, bite-sized package. Perfect for game day gatherings, kids’ parties, or a creative weeknight dinner, these savory bundles feature a golden-brown exterior that gives way to a melty, cheesy center studded with zesty pepperoni. They’re incredibly easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and always disappear fast at any gathering.

Ingredients

2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough
2 cups mozzarella cheese, cubed
1 package (6 oz) pepperoni, chopped
1 cup marinara sauce, plus extra for dipping
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Separate each biscuit and flatten into a 3-inch circle.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic.
Place a cube of mozzarella and a few pieces of chopped pepperoni in the center of each flattened biscuit.
Add a small spoonful (about 1 teaspoon) of marinara sauce to each.
Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching to seal completely. Roll into a ball shape.
Brush each pizza bomb with the garlic butter mixture and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese.
Place the bombs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 pizza bombs
Serving Size: 2-3 pizza bombs per person

Variations

Buffalo Chicken: Replace pepperoni with shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce
Vegetarian: Use mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions instead of pepperoni
Four Cheese: Combine mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and fontina
BBQ Chicken: Substitute marinara with BBQ sauce and use chicken instead of pepperoni
Mexican Style: Use Mexican cheese blend, chorizo, and enchilada sauce

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Keep leftover pizza bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Can be frozen before baking for up to 1 month. Freeze individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating:
Refrigerated: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes
Frozen (unbaked): Bake at 375°F for 22-25 minutes
Microwave: Heat for 20-30 seconds, though oven reheating is preferred for best texture

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance. Store unbaked pizza bombs covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready.

Why are my pizza bombs leaking?
Make sure to properly seal the edges of the dough and avoid overfilling. A tight seal is crucial to prevent the cheese from leaking during baking.

Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated biscuits?
Absolutely! Any pizza or bread dough will work, though cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the bottoms from burning?
Use parchment paper and position the rack in the middle of the oven. You can also use a double-layered baking sheet for extra protection.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Low-moisture mozzarella works best as it melts well without releasing too much liquid. You can also experiment with cheese combinations.

Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, but work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Spray with oil before cooking for better browning.

How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you see cheese starting to bubble out slightly, they’re ready.

Conclusion

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs represent the perfect fusion of convenience and indulgence in modern cooking. These versatile bites have earned their place as a go-to recipe for countless occasions, from casual family gatherings to elaborate party spreads. Their charm lies not just in their delicious taste, but in their ability to bring people together – there’s something magical about watching faces light up when they bite into these golden, cheese-filled bundles of joy.

What makes this recipe truly special is its adaptability. Whether you’re a cooking novice or an experienced chef, these pizza bombs can be customized to suit your skill level and taste preferences. They’re also a fantastic way to get children involved in the kitchen, teaching them basic cooking skills while creating memories.

As you master this recipe, you’ll likely find yourself experimenting with different fillings and seasonings, making it uniquely yours. Remember, the best recipes are those that evolve with each making, becoming a cherished part of your cooking repertoire.

Explore More Mouthwatering Recipes

If you loved indulging in the cheesy goodness of these pepperoni pizza bombs, why not dive into some of our other irresistible recipes? Try the Heart-Shaped Tortilla Pizzas for a playful twist on pizza night or explore the classic comfort of our Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe. For fans of creative baking, the Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza Made with Crescent Rolls will be a hit. Pair your pizza bombs with a side of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs for a hearty addition. Looking for another crowd-pleaser? The Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails or the comforting Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken will surely delight. And don’t miss our Irresistibly Delicious Ooey Gooey Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pockets for another cheesy creation you’ll love!