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Whenever I need something quick that everyone gets excited about, these pepperoni pizza bombs always save the day. There’s cheesy yumminess, lots of tasty sauce, and classic toppings stuffed inside a flaky biscuit crust. No matter if it’s a game day hangout, after-school break, or just a fun starter, these little guys are gone in no time at my place.
The first time I made these was on a night with hardly anything in the pantry. Now, my crew begs for them every Friday. They’re absolutely best hot and fresh, with a little bowl of warm marinara for dunking on the side.
Tasty Ingredients
- Mini pepperoni slices: Brings that big pizza punch. Use low-grease ones if you want less mess
- Grated mozzarella cheese: Gets super stringy and melty. Whole milk types melt best
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: Makes these a total breeze. Look for the simplest brand for fluffiest results
- Italian seasoning: Gives those herby pizza vibes. Pick one that smells fresh and strong
- Garlic powder: Really amps up the flavor. Fresh, soft powder’s great here
- Melted butter: Makes 'em brown and taste crazy good. Unsalted gives you more control
Easy Directions
- Get things ready:
- Crank your oven up to 375°F, or if you’re using an air fryer, set it to 350°F. Toss a sheet of parchment on your baking tray for less clean-up
- Make your butter mix:
- Stir garlic powder and Italian seasoning into your melted butter in a small bowl. Leave this close by to slather on top
- Shape the dough:
- Pop open your biscuit can and gently split the pieces apart. Pat them flat so you’ve got room in the middle for the good stuff
- Stuff ‘em:
- Drop a spoonful of mozzarella right in the center of each circle and layer on those mini pepperoni slices
- Close them up:
- Pinch up the edges nice and tight so the cheese and pepperoni are tucked in. Roll softly so you’ve got a smooth little ball
- Bake (or air fry):
- Sit your dough balls seam-down on the lined tray. Go to town brushing butter mix on top. Bake 12-15 minutes till golden or air fry about 8 minutes and check for deep color
- Dishing up:
- Let them sit a couple minutes so you don’t burn your fingers. Inside will be melty and awesome. Offer with ranch or marinara for dunking—it’s worth it
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Good to Know
Extra buttery dough is my favorite hack, and I love how those tiny pepperoni slices crisp up on the edges. My youngest always wants the one oozing with cheese, and honestly, who can blame them? It turns dinner into a party.
How to Store
Pop any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge—they’ll stay good for about three days. Warm them up fast in the air fryer or toaster oven, and they’re almost like just-baked. I keep extras for easy midday bites all week.
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Swap Things Up
If you want a change, use cooked sausage or some sautéed mushrooms instead of pepperoni. Trying to cut back on dairy? Part-skim mozzarella or any non-dairy cheese swap works. No Italian seasoning? Mix oregano, basil, and a sprinkle of thyme for that pizza shop feel.
Ways to Serve
Pizza bombs are total standalones, but pair them with soup or salad and you’ve got dinner. For parties, pile ‘em up on a big plate with little bowls of dips—ranch, spicy marinara, whatever you love. They’re a big hit for movie nights too.
Story Behind It
These cheesy bites bring all the vibes of a pizza shop at home—think sports on TV and big snacks. In the Southern US, quick biscuit dough tricks are super common, and mixing that with Italian American toppings makes the ultimate comfort food mashup.
Common Questions
- → Is it fine to swap biscuit dough for homemade?
Definitely! If you want a homier feel, try your own dough. Just roll it out like you would with canned stuff.
- → What else melts well besides mozzarella?
Cheddar or provolone get nice and melty too, or toss in any melty cheese mix you like best.
- → Can these be made before you need them?
Sure thing. Prep the dough balls and keep them cold until you're ready. Popping them in right before you want them gives the best bite.
- → Do I really need mini pepperoni?
No need. Just chop up regular pepperoni into pieces that fit, or toss in some diced meat instead.
- → What dips go well with these?
Marinara and ranch are classics, but mix it up with some spicy ketchup, garlic mayo, or even a herby yogurt dip.