Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Let me tell you, finding recipes that are a hit with both the kids and the adults in my house can sometimes feel like searching for a mythical creature. But then, along came these Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs, and suddenly, mealtime became a joyous occasion! From the moment the aroma of baking dough and melting cheese filled the kitchen, I knew we were onto something special. The kids were practically bouncing with anticipation, and even my usually picky teenager couldn’t wait to dive in. The first bite was pure magic – a crispy, golden crust giving way to a gooey, cheesy, pepperoni-packed center. It was like a miniature pizza party in each handheld bomb! These aren’t just a meal; they’re an experience, perfect for game nights, parties, or even just a fun weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try these Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs, they’ll become a regular request in your household, just like they have in mine. They are incredibly easy to make, surprisingly versatile, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Get ready to unleash a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for more!

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

To create these delectable Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs, you’ll need a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. Quality ingredients make all the difference, so choose the best you can for a truly unforgettable taste.

• Pizza Dough: 1 pound (about 450g) store-bought or homemade pizza dough. This forms the base and crust of our pizza bombs. Whether you opt for the convenience of store-bought dough or the satisfaction of homemade, ensure it’s fresh and pliable for easy shaping.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 8 ounces (about 225g) shredded mozzarella cheese. The star of the cheesy show! Mozzarella provides that classic pizza cheese pull and mild, milky flavor. Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella works best to avoid excess moisture in the bombs.
• Pepperoni: 4 ounces (about 115g) pepperoni slices, diced. Adds that signature pizza flavor and a touch of spice. You can use regular or turkey pepperoni depending on your preference. Dicing it ensures even distribution throughout the bombs.
• Pizza Sauce: ½ cup (about 120ml) pizza sauce. The flavorful heart of our pizza bombs. Choose your favorite brand or homemade recipe. A good quality sauce will significantly enhance the overall taste.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil. Used for brushing the pizza bombs before baking, adding a golden crust and preventing them from drying out. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Adds a subtle garlicky aroma and flavor to the dough. Enhances the savory notes of the pizza bombs.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. A blend of herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor profile. It complements the pizza sauce and other ingredients beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional). For sprinkling on top before baking, adding a salty, nutty finish and extra flavor dimension.

Instructions: Crafting Your Pizza Bombs

Making Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own batch of deliciousness.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough and Fillings

• If using store-bought pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to work with. This allows the gluten to relax, preventing the dough from snapping back.
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and diced pepperoni. Mix well to ensure even distribution of pepperoni throughout the cheese. This cheesy pepperoni mixture is the heart of our pizza bombs.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This flavorful oil mixture will be brushed onto the pizza bombs before baking, adding flavor and color.

Step 2: Assemble the Pizza Bombs

• Lightly flour a clean work surface. Divide the pizza dough into 12 equal portions. You can use a dough scraper or knife for even portions.
• Take one portion of dough and flatten it into a circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter. You can use your fingers or a rolling pin to gently stretch and flatten the dough.
• Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese and pepperoni mixture in the center of the dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, or the bombs may be difficult to seal.
• Spoon about 1 teaspoon of pizza sauce over the cheese and pepperoni mixture. Again, avoid overfilling to prevent leakage during baking.
• Bring the edges of the dough up and over the filling, pinching them together to completely seal the pizza bomb. Ensure the seams are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking. Form it into a smooth, round ball.
• Repeat with the remaining dough and filling until you have 12 pizza bombs. Place the assembled pizza bombs seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

• Brush the tops of each pizza bomb generously with the prepared olive oil mixture. This will give them a beautiful golden brown color and crispy crust.
• If desired, sprinkle a pinch of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each pizza bomb for extra flavor and visual appeal.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the pizza bombs are golden brown and the dough is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 200°F (93°C).
• Let the pizza bombs cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to settle slightly and prevents burning your mouth.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping, if desired. These pizza bombs are best enjoyed fresh and warm, when the cheese is gooey and the crust is crispy.

Nutrition Facts: A Bite-Sized Look

These Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are a delicious treat, but like all good things, moderation is key. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (approximately 1 pizza bomb):

• Servings: 12
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories (This can vary depending on the specific ingredients and dough used)
• Fat: 12-15g

Note: These are estimated values and can vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and portion sizes. For accurate nutritional information, refer to the nutritional labels of the ingredients you use and consider using a nutrition calculator for your specific recipe.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes. This includes preparing the filling, dividing the dough, and assembling the pizza bombs. The process is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques.
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your pizza bombs. Keep an eye on them and adjust baking time as needed.
• Total Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes. From start to finish, you can have these delicious pizza bombs ready to enjoy in under an hour!

This quick preparation time makes them a fantastic option when you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun family meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve: Unleash the Flavor Potential

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Dipping Sauces:
  • Classic Pizza Sauce: A warm bowl of pizza sauce is the quintessential dipping companion.
  • Marinara Sauce: A slightly chunkier and more robust tomato sauce offers a delightful alternative.
  • Ranch Dressing: Cool and creamy ranch dressing provides a contrasting flavor and texture.
  • Garlic Aioli: A garlicky mayonnaise-based dip adds a touch of sophistication.
  • Pesto: A vibrant pesto adds a fresh, herbaceous dimension.
  • Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For those who like a kick, sriracha mayo provides a creamy and spicy dipping experience.
• As an Appetizer:
  • Arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces for a party-pleasing appetizer.
  • Serve them alongside other appetizers like mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, or bruschetta for a complete appetizer spread.
  • They are perfect for game day gatherings, birthday parties, or casual get-togethers.
• As a Main Course:
  • Serve them with a side salad for a light and satisfying meal. A simple Caesar salad or a fresh garden salad would complement them perfectly.
  • Pair them with roasted vegetables for a more balanced and nutritious dinner. Roasted broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini would be excellent choices.
  • Serve them with a warm bowl of soup, such as tomato soup or minestrone soup, for a comforting and hearty meal.
• For Kids:
  • Kids absolutely love these! They are fun to eat and perfectly portioned for little hands.
  • Serve them with carrot sticks, celery sticks, and cucumber slices for a healthier side.
  • Make it a pizza bomb bar and let kids assemble their own with different fillings and toppings (under adult supervision, of course!).

No matter how you choose to serve them, Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are guaranteed to be a hit!

Additional Tips: Elevate Your Pizza Bombs

Want to take your Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs to the next level? Here are 8 helpful tips to ensure pizza bomb perfection every time:

1. Don’t Overfill: Resist the urge to overstuff the pizza bombs. Too much filling can make them difficult to seal and may cause them to burst during baking. Stick to the recommended amount of filling for best results.
2. Seal Tightly: Ensure the dough is tightly sealed around the filling to prevent leakage. Pinch the seams firmly and make sure there are no gaps. A well-sealed pizza bomb will bake beautifully and retain all its cheesy goodness.
3. Use Quality Dough: Starting with good quality pizza dough makes a big difference. Whether you use store-bought or homemade, ensure it’s fresh and pliable. If using frozen dough, thaw it completely according to package instructions before using.
4. Customize Your Fillings: Get creative with your fillings! Beyond pepperoni and mozzarella, you can add cooked sausage, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, ham, or any of your favorite pizza toppings. Experiment with different cheese blends like provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
5. Add Extra Flavor to the Dough: Enhance the flavor of the dough by adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs directly to the dough before shaping. This will infuse the crust with extra savory notes.
6. Egg Wash for Shine: For an even more golden and glossy finish, brush the pizza bombs with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) instead of just olive oil before baking. This will create a beautiful sheen and enhance the browning.
7. Freezing for Later: Pizza bombs are freezer-friendly! Assemble them, but don’t bake. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is perfect for meal prepping or having a quick appetizer ready anytime.
8. Garlic Butter Brush: After baking, brush the hot pizza bombs with melted garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor and richness. Simply melt butter with minced garlic and brush it over the warm bombs.

FAQ: Your Pizza Bomb Questions Answered

Got questions about making Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you along the way:

Q1: Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?

A: Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough will work wonderfully and often yields an even tastier result. Use your favorite pizza dough recipe. Just ensure it’s easy to handle and roll out.

Q2: Can I make these pizza bombs ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the pizza bombs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. You can also freeze them unbaked (see tip #7 above).

Q3: What if I don’t have pepperoni? Can I use something else?

A: Yes, you can substitute pepperoni with other cooked meats like Italian sausage, cooked bacon, diced ham, or even cooked ground beef. You can also make them vegetarian by using vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or olives.

Q4: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Of course! While mozzarella is classic, you can use other melting cheeses like provolone, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses. Experiment to find your favorite cheesy combination.

Q5: My pizza bombs are browning too quickly. What should I do?

A: If your pizza bombs are browning too quickly, you can tent them loosely with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking. This will prevent them from getting too dark on top while still allowing the inside to cook through.

Q6: The filling is leaking out of my pizza bombs. What did I do wrong?

A: This usually happens if the pizza bombs are overfilled or not sealed properly. Make sure you don’t overfill them and pinch the seams tightly to ensure they are completely sealed. Seam-side down placement on the baking sheet also helps.

Q7: Can I make these in an air fryer?

A: Yes, you can! Air fry pizza bombs at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on your air fryer model and the size of your pizza bombs. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Q8: Are these pizza bombs spicy?

A: The spiciness depends on the pepperoni you use. Regular pepperoni has a mild spice, while spicy pepperoni will add more heat. If you prefer less spice, use turkey pepperoni or omit the pepperoni altogether and use a milder filling. You can also control the spice level by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or dipping sauce if desired.

With these tips and answers, you’re well on your way to creating Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs that are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Print