How to Make Hot Dog Pizza Rolls
Prepping the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Pan-Searing the Hot Dogs
To enhance their flavor, pan-sear the hot dogs in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly browned. This gives them a slightly crispy outer texture and a more developed flavor.
Rolling Out the Dough
Divide the pizza dough into six equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each piece into a rectangle large enough to wrap around a hot dog. This ensures the dough bakes evenly and creates the perfect pocket for all that cheesy goodness.
Layering the Fillings
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly over each dough rectangle. Avoid overloading it, as too much sauce can make the dough soggy.
Next, place a hot dog along one side of the dough, then sprinkle fresh mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. These cheeses melt beautifully, creating a creamy, cheesy bite with every roll.
Rolling & Sealing
Starting from the hot dog side, tightly roll the dough into a log, ensuring the cheese and hot dog are fully enclosed. Pinch the seams shut to keep everything intact during baking.
Brushing & Topping
For extra flavor and a golden crust, mix olive oil and garlic powder together and brush it over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top for an extra cheesy finish.
Baking to Perfection
Transfer the prepared rolls onto the lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. The crust should be crispy, and the cheese should be melted and bubbling.
Serving & Enjoying
Let the rolls cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice and serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of crispy dough, gooey cheese, and the juicy hot dog makes for an irresistible bite!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Pizza Dough – Store-bought works great, but homemade pizza dough adds a personal touch. Crescent roll dough can be used for a softer, flakier texture.
- Hot Dogs – Classic beef hot dogs work best, but turkey dogs, sausages, or even plant-based hot dogs can be substituted.
- Marinara Sauce – Provides a tangy base. Substitute with BBQ sauce or pesto for a flavor twist.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully, but feel free to experiment with provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
- Olive Oil & Garlic Powder – Brushed on top for added flavor and crispiness; melted butter can be used for a richer taste.
Tips & Suggestions
- Make-Ahead Option – Assemble the rolls a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge. Just bake when ready!
- Extra Crispy Crust – For a crunchier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
- Customize the Fillings – Try adding sliced jalapeños, caramelized onions, or even a drizzle of mustard inside for an extra kick.
- Dipping Sauces – While marinara is the go-to, ranch, garlic butter, or spicy ketchup also make great dipping options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Air-fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
How Do I Store & Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I Use Puff Pastry Instead of Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Puff pastry will give you a flakier, more delicate texture. Just reduce the baking time slightly.
Final Thoughts
These Hot Dog Pizza Rolls are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory—a fun and delicious twist on classic comfort foods. Whether you serve them as a snack, party appetizer, or quick dinner, they’re bound to be a hit!
