Homemade Pizza Sticks

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Introduction

Homemade pizza sticks are a quick, easy, and irresistibly cheesy dinner option that delivers all the flavors of pizza in a handheld, dippable form. Made with crescent roll dough, melty string cheese, and savory pepperoni, these golden-brown pizza sticks are perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or even a fun family cooking night. Pair them with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping, and you have a meal that’s as delicious as it is effortless!

Origin and Cultural Significance

Pizza sticks are inspired by classic Italian-American flavors but in a more convenient, snackable format. Crescent roll dough, a staple in many American households, makes this version of pizza sticks easy to prepare and customize. Similar to mozzarella sticks but with the flavor of pepperoni pizza, these cheesy bites have become a favorite in game-day spreads, school lunches, and quick dinners.

Ingredients Quantity

  • 2 rolls of crescent roll dough
  • 8 string cheese sticks (mozzarella)
  • 24 pepperoni slices (or more to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara, for dipping

Optional Additions

  • Cooked sausage or ham for extra protein
  • Sliced black olives or mushrooms for more toppings
  • Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • Ranch dressing for an alternative dipping sauce

Tips for Success

  • Press the seams of the crescent dough together well to prevent cheese from leaking out.
  • Roll the dough tightly around the filling to keep everything sealed.
  • Watch the baking time closely—10 minutes at 450°F is ideal for a golden crust without overbaking.
  • Let them cool slightly before eating—the cheese will be hot and gooey!
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven to 450°F (232°C).
  2. Prepare the Dough: Roll out 2 sheets of crescent roll dough and press the seams together to form a single sheet per roll.
  3. Cut & Fill: Use a pizza cutter to divide each sheet into 4 equal rectangles. On each piece, place 3 slices of pepperoni and 1 string cheese stick.
  4. Roll & Seal: Roll up each rectangle tightly, sealing the edges to keep the cheese inside.
  5. Butter Topping: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter and mix with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush over the tops of the pizza sticks. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, watching closely to avoid overbaking.
  7. Serve: Let cool slightly and serve warm with pizza sauce and a side of Caesar salad.

Description

These golden, flaky pizza sticks are filled with gooey, melty mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni, then brushed with garlic-herb butter and topped with parmesan for extra flavor. Each bite is a crispy, cheesy, and deliciously indulgent twist on classic pizza!

Nutritional Information (per pizza stick, estimated)

  • Calories: 250-300 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 20-25g
  • Protein: 10-12g
  • Fat: 15-18g
  • Sodium: Varies based on cheese and pepperoni used

Conclusion

Homemade pizza sticks are fun to make, quick to bake, and absolutely delicious! They’re perfect for a casual dinner, party appetizer, or snack. The combination of crispy crescent rolls, cheesy filling, and garlicky butter topping makes this a go-to recipe for any pizza lover.

Recommendation

  • For a crispier texture, bake on a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet.
  • Try dipping in ranch, garlic butter, or a spicy marinara for extra flavor.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To make these a bit healthier, try using:

  • Whole wheat crescent dough for added fiber.
  • Turkey pepperoni for a lower-fat option.
  • Reduced-fat cheese to cut back on calories.
  • Homemade marinara to reduce added sugars.

Final Thoughts

Even though they could have come out of the oven a couple of minutes earlier, your homemade pizza sticks were still a hit! Next time, with a slight timing adjustment, they’ll be even more perfect. Keep experimenting and enjoying the process—after all, homemade pizza is all about fun and flavor! 🍕😋

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