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Pepperoni Pizza Bombs: Get ready to explode with flavor! Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown ball of dough, only to be greeted by a molten core of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and tangy tomato sauce. These aren’t your average pizza rolls; they’re a handheld explosion of pizza perfection, and I’m thrilled to share this incredibly fun and delicious recipe with you.

While the exact origins of pizza bombs are shrouded in mystery, their appeal is undeniable. They take the classic comfort of pizza and transform it into a portable, poppable treat. Think of them as a playful twist on the traditional calzone, offering all the familiar flavors in a bite-sized package. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or even a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

What makes these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs so irresistible? It’s the combination of textures and tastes. The soft, pillowy dough gives way to a burst of cheesy, pepperoni goodness. The convenience factor is also a major draw. No slicing, no plates needed – just grab and go! Plus, they’re incredibly customizable. Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings, from mushrooms and onions to olives and peppers. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked! So, let’s get started and create these delightful little pockets of pizza paradise.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough (like Pillsbury Grands!)
• 1 cup marinara sauce, divided
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, quartered
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, for serving

Preparing the Pizza Bombs:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for even baking and ensuring the biscuit dough cooks through properly. While the oven is heating, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the pizza bombs from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the biscuit dough. Open the package of refrigerated biscuit dough. On a lightly floured surface, gently separate each biscuit. If using Grands! biscuits, you might want to flatten each biscuit slightly with a rolling pin or your fingers to make them a bit thinner and easier to work with. This will help them wrap around the filling more effectively. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
3. Assemble the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the quartered pepperoni slices, ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of the marinara sauce. Mix well to ensure the pepperoni and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. This mixture will be the delicious, cheesy, pepperoni-packed center of our pizza bombs.
4. Fill the biscuits. Take one flattened biscuit and place a generous spoonful (about 1-2 tablespoons) of the pepperoni-cheese mixture in the center. Be careful not to overfill the biscuit, as this can make it difficult to seal properly and the filling might leak out during baking.
5. Seal the pizza bombs. Carefully bring the edges of the biscuit dough up and over the filling, pinching them together tightly to create a sealed ball. Make sure there are no gaps or holes in the dough, as this will allow the cheese to melt out during baking. If the dough is sticky, you can lightly flour your fingers to help with sealing. Gently roll the sealed ball between your palms to smooth out any creases and ensure a uniform shape. Place the sealed pizza bomb seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining biscuits and filling.
6. Prepare the topping. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, and dried oregano. This mixture will give the pizza bombs a delicious, savory flavor and a beautiful golden-brown color.
7. Brush with the topping. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops and sides of each pizza bomb with the olive oil mixture. Make sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor and browning.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the tops of the pizza bombs with the grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a salty, nutty flavor and a crispy texture to the finished product.

Baking the Pizza Bombs:

1. Bake in the preheated oven. Place the baking sheet with the pizza bombs in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from burning. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s always a good idea to check for doneness.
2. Check for doneness. To ensure the pizza bombs are cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center of one of them. If the toothpick comes out clean, the biscuits are done. If the toothpick comes out with wet dough on it, continue baking for a few more minutes.
3. Cool slightly. Once the pizza bombs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from sticking to the baking sheet and allow them to cool more evenly.

Serving the Pizza Bombs:

1. Serve warm. Pizza bombs are best served warm, when the cheese is still melted and gooey and the biscuits are soft and fluffy.
2. Serve with marinara sauce. Serve the remaining ½ cup of marinara sauce on the side for dipping. This will add an extra layer of flavor and moisture to the pizza bombs.
3. Optional toppings. If desired, sprinkle the pizza bombs with red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat. You can also serve them with other toppings, such as chopped fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.
4. Enjoy! These pizza bombs are perfect for a quick and easy snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. They’re also great for parties and gatherings. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious.
• Meat Variations: Instead of pepperoni, try using cooked sausage, ham, or bacon.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the pepperoni and add chopped vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, or olives.
• Spicy Pizza Bombs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Butter Topping: For an extra garlicky flavor, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and brush it over the pizza bombs before baking.
• Air Fryer Option: You can also cook these in an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza bombs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the pizza bombs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent the dough from drying out. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the assembled pizza bombs before baking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Troubleshooting:

• Pizza bombs are not cooking through: Make sure your oven is properly preheated and that you are baking the pizza bombs at the correct temperature. If they are browning too quickly on the outside but still raw on the inside, you can tent them with foil to prevent them from burning.
• Filling is leaking out: Make sure you are sealing the pizza bombs tightly and that there are no gaps or holes in the dough. If the filling is still leaking out, you can try adding a little bit of flour to the edges of the dough to help them seal better.
• Pizza bombs are sticking to the baking sheet: Make sure you are using parchment paper or greasing the baking sheet well to prevent the pizza bombs from sticking.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Pepperoni Pizza Bombs!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are truly a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the classic flavors of pizza in a fun, portable, and utterly irresistible package. I know, I know, I’m biased, but trust me on this one. From the satisfying crunch of the golden-brown crust to the explosion of cheesy, pepperoni goodness inside, every bite is a little party in your mouth.

Why are these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs so special? Well, beyond the sheer deliciousness, they’re incredibly versatile. Need a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game night? These are your answer. Looking for a fun and easy lunchbox treat for the kids (or yourself!)? Look no further. Craving a quick and satisfying snack after a long day? These little bombs of flavor will hit the spot every time. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make, even for novice bakers. The recipe is straightforward, the ingredients are readily available, and the results are consistently amazing.

But the best part about these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs is how easily you can customize them to your own tastes. Not a fan of pepperoni? No problem! Swap it out for cooked sausage, ham, or even veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. Want to kick up the heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or use a spicy marinara sauce for dipping. Feel like getting fancy? Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. A creamy garlic dip or even a pesto aioli would also be fantastic.
* For a complete meal, pair them with a simple salad or a bowl of soup.
* Get creative with your fillings! Try a Hawaiian version with ham and pineapple, a vegetarian version with spinach and ricotta cheese, or a supreme version with all your favorite pizza toppings.
* Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for a quick and easy meal or snack whenever you need it. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
* Consider using different types of cheese. A blend of mozzarella and provolone would be delicious, or you could add a touch of Parmesan or Romano for a sharper flavor.
* Experiment with different herbs and spices. A sprinkle of oregano, basil, or garlic powder can add a lot of flavor to the filling.

I truly believe that these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs will become a staple in your kitchen. They’re fun to make, delicious to eat, and endlessly customizable. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of these little flavor bombs.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what dipping sauces you used, and how much everyone loved them. I can’t wait to hear all about your Pepperoni Pizza Bomb adventures! Happy baking!