Ingredients
Scale
- 1 roll of refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 package (about 3 ounces) pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: chopped fresh basil for garnish
Feel free to get creative with substitutions. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pizza dough or swap out pepperoni for turkey slices. Whatever you choose, remember that cooking is all about personal expression, just as Mama Lou taught us.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12×8 inches. This part always brings back memories of Ouma and me sneaking bits of dough when Mama Lou wasn’t looking.
- Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Mama Lou always said the secret to a good roll-up is the right amount of sauce – not too little, not too much.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by the pepperoni slices. A generous hand was always Mama Lou’s way, ensuring each bite was rich with flavor.
- Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 1-inch pieces and place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with olive oil, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Ouma loved this part, as she would sneak little tastes of cheese while garnishing.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. The smell alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, just like in Mama Lou’s house.
- Let them cool slightly before serving, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International