Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Recipe
Pizza bombs are a fun and delicious twist on traditional pizza. These bite-sized, gooey, and cheesy pockets are packed with all your favorite pizza ingredients—pepperoni, mozzarella, marinara sauce, and more. The best part? You can customize them however you like! Whether you’re making them for a party, a family dinner, or just as a snack, cheesy pepperoni pizza bombs are sure to satisfy every craving.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the pizza bombs cook through and get golden brown on the outside while staying deliciously cheesy on the inside.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough
If you’re using refrigerated pizza dough, open the can and carefully unroll the dough onto a clean surface. If you’re using homemade pizza dough, make sure it’s been allowed to rise and is ready to roll out.
Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. You want it to be thin enough to be pliable, but thick enough to hold all your fillings.
3. Add the Fillings
Now comes the fun part: assembling your pizza bombs!
- Cut the dough into squares: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 12 equal-sized squares (about 3×3 inches). If you want larger or smaller pizza bombs, you can adjust the size accordingly.
- Layer the fillings: Place a slice of pepperoni in the center of each square, followed by 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese. You can sprinkle a little parmesan cheese over the mozzarella for added flavor, and feel free to add more pepperoni if you like your pizza bombs extra meaty! If you’re including garlic, now’s the time to sprinkle it on top for a burst of flavor.
4. Form the Pizza Bombs
Once your filling is in place, gently fold the corners of the dough square toward the center to seal it. Pinch the edges together tightly, making sure the filling stays inside. The dough should form a little pouch or ball shape. You can twist the top slightly if you want to make it more secure.
5. Brush with Olive Oil
Place your formed pizza bombs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For a golden, shiny finish, brush the tops of the dough balls with olive oil. This will help them crisp up beautifully while baking. You can also sprinkle a bit of Italian seasoning or garlic powder on top of the olive oil for extra flavor.
6. Bake the Pizza Bombs
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pizza bombs are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You want the cheese inside to be melted and bubbly, and the dough to be cooked through.
In the last couple of minutes of baking, you can optionally sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese over the tops for a cheesy finish. Just let it melt into a gooey layer, adding an irresistible pull when you take a bite.
7. Prepare the Dipping Sauce
While the pizza bombs are baking, you can prepare the dipping sauce.
- In a small saucepan, combine the marinara sauce, dried oregano, garlic powder, and sugar (if using). Heat over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is warmed through and the flavors have melded together.
You can also microwave the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30–45 seconds if you’re in a hurry!
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once the pizza bombs are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping. These cheesy, pepperoni-filled pockets are perfect for a quick snack, an appetizer, or as a fun dinner option.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh dough for best results: While refrigerated dough works well, if you have the time and inclination, you can make your own dough from scratch. Fresh dough gives your pizza bombs a softer, fluffier texture.
- Customize the fillings: The beauty of pizza bombs is in their versatility. Swap out the pepperoni for sausage, bacon, chicken, or veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers. You can also add extra cheese—cheddar, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick!
- Don’t overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the pizza bombs, as this could cause the dough to break or leak. Keep the filling to about 1–2 tablespoons per bomb to ensure they cook evenly.
- Use a parchment-lined baking sheet: This will prevent the pizza bombs from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can use a silicone baking mat or lightly grease the baking sheet with non-stick spray.
- Frozen pizza bombs: If you want to make these ahead of time, assemble the pizza bombs and freeze them on a baking sheet before cooking. Once frozen, you can store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven from frozen, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
Variations
Vegetarian Pizza Bombs
Skip the pepperoni and opt for a variety of vegetables. You can use mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, olives, or artichokes. Feel free to add extra cheese, like ricotta or goat cheese, for creaminess.
BBQ Chicken Pizza Bombs
For a BBQ twist, use cooked chicken tossed in BBQ sauce, red onions, and mozzarella. You can even drizzle some extra BBQ sauce on top after baking.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza Bombs
For a spicy flavor, use shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, along with a small amount of blue cheese or ranch dressing. The combination of hot and creamy makes for an irresistible bite.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Pizza Bombs
Want to go even cheesier? Add garlic butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese over the dough before baking. This creates a crispy, garlic bread crust around the pizza filling.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy pepperoni pizza bombs are the perfect comfort food—crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside, with the savory goodness of pepperoni and marinara sauce. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and incredibly customizable. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner, a party snack, or just because, these pizza bombs are sure to be a hit.
Advanced Tips and Techniques for Perfect Pizza Bombs
While the basic recipe for pizza bombs is simple, there are a few advanced techniques and pro tips that can take your pizza bombs to the next level in terms of flavor, texture, and presentation.
1. Use a Pizza Stone for a Crispy Bottom
For that perfectly crispy crust on the bottom, consider using a pizza stone. Preheat the pizza stone in the oven as it heats up (about 20 minutes before baking), and then place your assembled pizza bombs directly onto the hot stone. The stone absorbs moisture, which helps give the dough a crisp, golden finish that you just can’t get with a regular baking sheet.
2. Add a Sweet and Savory Twist
If you enjoy a bit of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors of pepperoni and cheese, try adding a small drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze over the top of the pizza bombs once they’re baked. The sweet sauce pairs wonderfully with the salty pepperoni and melted mozzarella. Another alternative is to use apple slices or caramelized onions as a filling along with the pepperoni for a sweet-savory combo.
3. Experiment with Flavored Dough
To make your pizza bombs even more flavorful, you can use a flavored pizza dough. You can find pre-made options at many grocery stores, or you can try adding seasonings to homemade dough. Try mixing in garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like basil and rosemary to infuse the dough with extra flavor. A parmesan crust can also be added by brushing the dough with melted butter and sprinkling a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
4. Ensure Even Cheese Distribution
When you stuff the pizza bombs with mozzarella cheese, try to ensure that the cheese is distributed evenly inside. If you clump it together in one spot, the cheese might melt unevenly, leading to some parts of the bomb being gooey and others dry. For a more consistent melt, you can use shredded cheese instead of chunkier mozzarella, as it will spread more evenly when melted.
5. Consider Double Layering the Dough
For extra flakiness and a thicker, more substantial outer shell, you could try using two layers of dough. This will create a more “pie-like” texture and give you a thicker crust that’s still chewy inside. Just make sure you press down the seams well so they don’t come apart during baking. If you use a thicker dough layer, adjust the baking time slightly to ensure the dough cooks through.
Sauce Pairings and Dips for Pizza Bombs
A big part of the fun with pizza bombs is the dipping sauces! Sure, you can go with the classic marinara, but why not get creative and serve your pizza bombs with a range of tasty dips? Here are some ideas to match your pizza bombs’ flavors:
1. Spicy Ranch Dip
If you want a creamy dip with a kick, go for spicy ranch dressing. Simply mix ranch dressing with hot sauce, paprika, and a dash of garlic powder. It adds richness to the pizza bombs while giving them an extra burst of flavor. This is perfect if you like things a little spicy!
2. Pesto Sauce
For a more gourmet touch, serve your pizza bombs with basil pesto for dipping. The fresh, aromatic herbs in the pesto balance out the richness of the cheese and pepperoni. You can even drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the top of the pesto for a touch of sweetness and tang.
3. Garlic Butter Sauce
A classic garlic butter sauce is another fantastic option. Simply melt butter with minced garlic and Italian seasoning, and toss in a little grated Parmesan cheese. This simple, savory dip brings the rich flavor of garlic bread to your pizza bombs and is incredibly addictive.
4. Buffalo Ranch Sauce
For a tangy, spicy option, mix ranch dressing with buffalo wing sauce. The spicy heat of the buffalo sauce and the cool creaminess of ranch create a delicious contrast that complements the pizza bombs perfectly. You can even add a touch of blue cheese for more depth.
5. Sweet Chili Sauce
If you like a bit of sweetness and spice, sweet chili sauce works wonders with pizza bombs. The sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce pairs beautifully with the cheesy pepperoni filling, making it a delightful dipping sauce choice.
What to Serve with Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs
Pizza bombs are the perfect finger food, but if you want to round out the meal with some sides or additional dishes, here are some ideas:
1. Salad
A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the pizza bombs. You can add some shaved Parmesan and fresh basil to tie the salad into the pizza theme. For extra flavor, you could even toss in some olives or mozzarella balls.
2. Roasted Veggies
Serve your pizza bombs alongside some roasted vegetables. Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning will add freshness and a hint of smokiness to complement the pizza bombs.
3. Garlic Knots or Breadsticks
For a carb lover’s dream meal, serve your pizza bombs with garlic knots or breadsticks. The extra carbs work well as a side dish and enhance the bread-like theme of your meal. Pair them with a bit of extra marinara or garlic butter for dipping.
4. French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
If you want to go all out and make your meal even more indulgent, serve crispy French fries or sweet potato fries on the side. They’re the perfect crunchy contrast to the soft and gooey pizza bombs. You can even drizzle them with cheese sauce for a fun twist.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms
If you want to keep things in the pizza flavor family, try making stuffed mushrooms. Use a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and cheese, and bake the mushrooms until golden brown. These bite-sized delights will fit in perfectly alongside your pizza bombs and add another layer of flavor.
Hosting a Pizza Bomb Party or Game Night
Pizza bombs are perfect for parties and get-togethers, as they’re easy to eat with your hands and don’t require silverware. Whether you’re hosting a casual movie night, a game day gathering, or a full-on pizza-themed party, these pizza bombs will impress your guests. Here’s how to elevate the experience:
1. Create a Pizza Bomb Bar
Set up a pizza bomb bar where your guests can assemble their own pizza bombs with a variety of fillings and sauces. Provide several options for cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, provolone), meats (pepperoni, sausage, bacon), and vegetables (mushrooms, bell peppers, onions). Don’t forget to offer a few dipping sauces for variety!
2. Set Up a Game or Movie Night
These pizza bombs are a great addition to game nights or a movie marathon. Serve them in a large bowl or on a platter for easy sharing. Pair them with fun games like charades, board games, or a movie that fits the theme—perhaps something light and fun like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (because, pizza!).
3. Customize for Themed Parties
If you’re having a themed party, customize the pizza bombs accordingly. For example, for a Super Bowl party, make BBQ chicken pizza bombs. For a Halloween gathering, you could create “spooky pizza bombs” by adding black olives for “eyes” or using pumpkin puree in the dipping sauce.
Conclusion
Cheesy pepperoni pizza bombs are the ultimate comfort food, offering an irresistibly cheesy, meaty, and crunchy snack or meal. With so many ways to customize and experiment with fillings, dipping sauces, and dough, you’ll never run out of new ways to enjoy this delicious treat. Whether you’re making them for a casual weeknight dinner, serving them at a party, or taking them to a potluck, pizza bombs will be the star of the show.
With these tips and variations, you now have the full toolkit to create the most mouth-watering, flavorful, and fun-to-eat pizza bombs. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, pepperoni-packed explosion of flavor!
Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Recipe
Pizza bombs are a fun and delicious twist on traditional pizza. These bite-sized, gooey, and cheesy pockets are packed with all your favorite pizza ingredients—pepperoni, mozzarella, marinara sauce, and more. The best part? You can customize them however you like! Whether you're making them for a party, a family dinner, or just as a snack, cheesy pepperoni pizza bombs are sure to satisfy every craving.
Ingredients
- For the Pizza Bombs:
- 1 can of refrigerated pizza dough (typically 8 oz, or enough for one pizza; if you prefer homemade dough, see our notes below)
- 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese (you can also use other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a pizza blend)
- 1/2 cup of sliced pepperoni (approximately 20–30 slices, or to taste; you can also use mini pepperoni or other deli meats like ham or sausage)
- 1/4 cup of finely grated parmesan cheese (optional, but adds extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced (optional, for an extra burst of flavor)
- 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for topping (optional, for that extra gooey finish)
- For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup of marinara sauce (or pizza sauce)
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional, for flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of the sauce)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the pizza bombs cook through and get golden brown on the outside while staying deliciously cheesy on the inside.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough
If you’re using refrigerated pizza dough, open the can and carefully unroll the dough onto a clean surface. If you're using homemade pizza dough, make sure it’s been allowed to rise and is ready to roll out.
Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. You want it to be thin enough to be pliable, but thick enough to hold all your fillings.
3. Add the Fillings
Now comes the fun part: assembling your pizza bombs!
- Cut the dough into squares: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 12 equal-sized squares (about 3x3 inches). If you want larger or smaller pizza bombs, you can adjust the size accordingly.
- Layer the fillings: Place a slice of pepperoni in the center of each square, followed by 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese. You can sprinkle a little parmesan cheese over the mozzarella for added flavor, and feel free to add more pepperoni if you like your pizza bombs extra meaty! If you're including garlic, now’s the time to sprinkle it on top for a burst of flavor.
4. Form the Pizza Bombs
Once your filling is in place, gently fold the corners of the dough square toward the center to seal it. Pinch the edges together tightly, making sure the filling stays inside. The dough should form a little pouch or ball shape. You can twist the top slightly if you want to make it more secure.
Make sure there are no holes, or the cheese may ooze out during baking.
5. Brush with Olive Oil
Place your formed pizza bombs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For a golden, shiny finish, brush the tops of the dough balls with olive oil. This will help them crisp up beautifully while baking. You can also sprinkle a bit of Italian seasoning or garlic powder on top of the olive oil for extra flavor.
6. Bake the Pizza Bombs
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pizza bombs are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You want the cheese inside to be melted and bubbly, and the dough to be cooked through.
In the last couple of minutes of baking, you can optionally sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese over the tops for a cheesy finish. Just let it melt into a gooey layer, adding an irresistible pull when you take a bite.
7. Prepare the Dipping Sauce
While the pizza bombs are baking, you can prepare the dipping sauce.
- In a small saucepan, combine the marinara sauce, dried oregano, garlic powder, and sugar (if using). Heat over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is warmed through and the flavors have melded together.
You can also microwave the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30–45 seconds if you're in a hurry!
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once the pizza bombs are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping. These cheesy, pepperoni-filled pockets are perfect for a quick snack, an appetizer, or as a fun dinner option.
Notes
Dough Options
- Store-bought dough: Refrigerated pizza dough (from a can) is quick and convenient, but you can also use frozen dough that has been thawed or homemade dough for a more personalized touch. If you use frozen dough, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 1–2 hours before using.
- Gluten-free dough: If you're making pizza bombs for someone with dietary restrictions, gluten-free pizza dough is available at many grocery stores. Be sure to follow the package instructions for proper handling.
- Pizza dough alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use puff pastry, crescent roll dough, or even biscuits as the base. These alternatives can give you a slightly different texture but still deliver that fun, cheesy pocket.
Cheese Options
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is the classic cheese used in pizza bombs, feel free to get creative. Provolone, cheddar, monterey jack, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses can be used. Adding some cream cheese (blended with other cheeses) makes it extra creamy, or a sharp parmesan for some added bite.
- Cheese filling tip: For the cheesiest pizza bombs, use a combination of shredded cheese and a little cheese spread (like ricotta or cream cheese) to ensure a creamy, gooey center. Just make sure the filling isn’t too liquidy, or it might make the dough soggy.
Pepperoni and Other Fillings
- Pepperoni size: Regular pepperoni slices can work, but using mini pepperoni makes for a more evenly distributed filling that fits better in the small pizza bomb pockets.
- Meat alternatives: If you prefer a different meat, you can substitute sausage, ham, bacon bits, or chicken. Salami or prosciutto could be a fun twist for a more gourmet pizza bomb.
- Vegetarian options: For vegetarians, you can use mushrooms, spinach, olives, bell peppers, and onions as the base. If you're making a Margherita pizza bomb, use just fresh basil, tomato slices, and mozzarella.
- Other flavorings: Adding fresh herbs such as oregano, basil, or thyme can enhance the overall flavor. Red pepper flakes or hot sauce can also be added to the filling for a spicy kick.
Baking Tips
- Even spacing: Ensure there’s enough space between each pizza bomb on the baking sheet to allow for even baking and prevent them from sticking together. If they touch, the dough might not cook properly on all sides.
- Avoid overfilling: While it’s tempting to pack in lots of cheese and pepperoni, overstuffing can cause the pizza bombs to burst open while baking. Stick to 1–2 tablespoons of cheese and pepperoni per bomb.
- Watch the baking time: Since oven temperatures can vary, be sure to keep an eye on the pizza bombs as they bake. You’re looking for a golden brown crust and melted cheese oozing out from the seams. If you notice the tops browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil and continue baking until fully cooked.
- Check the bottom: To make sure the bottoms are crispy and golden, gently lift one pizza bomb with a spatula toward the end of the baking time. If it’s too soft or doughy, return it to the oven for another minute or two.
Dipping Sauces
- Marinara sauce: For the classic dip, use store-bought marinara or make your own. You can enhance store-bought marinara with dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of sugar to cut the acidity. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also brighten up the sauce.
- Balsamic glaze: For a gourmet touch, you can drizzle balsamic glaze over the pizza bombs once they’re out of the oven. This adds a sweet, tangy contrast to the savory flavors.
- Ranch or blue cheese: If you want to make your pizza bombs a bit more indulgent, ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing is a popular pairing, especially if you’re using spicier fillings like buffalo chicken.