Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Recipe

Introduction

These Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are simple & delicious, combining all the classic pizza flavors in a fun, bite-sized package. Perfect for parties, game day, or a quick family snack, they’re ready in minutes with minimal ingredients. If you enjoy easy pizza-inspired treats, you might also like this Easy Pizza Chips Ready in 30 Minutes for a Quick Snack or these Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe.

Ingredients

These irresistible Pepperoni Pizza Bombs deliver gooey melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and a hint of spicy pepperoncini in every warm, golden-brown bite.

  • 4 oz. mozzarella cheese, cut into 8 cubes
  • Olive oil, for brushing
  • Half batch of Homemade Pizza Dough or 11 ounces store-bought pizza dough
  • 16 slices pepperoni
  • 4 pepperoncini peppers, sliced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
  • Marinara sauce, warmed, for serving

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs ingredients

Timing

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes

Context: These Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are about 20% faster to make than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into equal squares, about 3×3 inches each, to form the base for your Pepperoni Pizza Bombs.

Tip: Let refrigerated dough sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before rolling—this makes it easier to handle and less likely to tear.

Step 2 — Add the Fillings

Place a slice of pepperoni and a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough square. You can also add a teaspoon of pizza sauce for extra flavor.

Tip: Avoid overfilling, as this can cause the dough to burst open during baking.

Step 3 — Seal the Bombs

Gather the edges of each dough square and pinch them together at the top to fully enclose the filling. Make sure there are no gaps.

Tip: Dab a little water on the edges if the dough isn’t sticking together well.

Step 4 — Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place each sealed Pepperoni Pizza Bomb seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave about an inch of space between them to allow for even baking.

Step 5 — Brush with Garlic Butter

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture lightly over the top of each bomb for a golden, flavorful crust.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Tip: Check for doneness by tapping the top—it should sound hollow, and the bottom should be lightly browned.

Step 7 — Cool and Serve

Let the bombs cool for 5 minutes before serving—this allows the cheese to set slightly. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Calories 280
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 28g
Fat 13g
Fiber 2g
Sodium 640mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

  • Turkey Pepperoni — Leaner protein with classic spiced flavor but less saturated fat.
  • Whole-Wheat Dough — Adds fiber and nutrients while keeping the pizza bomb texture.
  • Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella — Creamy melt with reduced fat content.
  • Cauliflower Crust — Lower-carb option that’s gluten-free and still holds shape well.
  • Dairy-Free Cheese — Plant-based melt for a vegan-friendly pepperoni pizza bomb.
  • Low-Sodium Pizza Sauce — Bright tomato flavor without excess salt.
  • Plant-Based Pepperoni — Meaty texture and spice from vegan ingredients.
  • Mini Portobello Caps — Savory, low-carb vessel instead of dough.

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs finished

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping, creating the perfect flavor combination.
  • Pair with a fresh garden salad or Caesar salad to balance the richness of the pizza bombs.
  • Offer as a game day appetizer alongside other finger foods like chicken wings and nachos.
  • Create a fun pizza night by serving these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs as the main attraction with a variety of dipping sauces.
  • Pack them in a thermos for a warm, satisfying school or work lunch that travels well.
  • Arrange on a wooden board with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan for an appealing party platter.

These versatile Pepperoni Pizza Bombs work beautifully for casual dinners, parties, or as a quick snack any time of day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mistake: Using overly thick pizza dough. Fix: Opt for a thinner, lighter dough or biscuit dough to ensure the Pepperoni Pizza Bombs cook evenly and don’t become doughy.
  • Mistake: Overfilling the dough balls. Fix: Use a measured tablespoon of filling to prevent the seams from bursting open and leaking cheese during baking.
  • Mistake: Not sealing the edges properly. Fix: Pinch the dough firmly and use a bit of water on the edges to create a tight, secure seal for each bomb.
  • Mistake: Skipping the garlic butter brush. Fix: Always brush the tops with seasoned garlic butter right after baking for a golden, flavorful crust that elevates the entire dish.
  • Mistake: Baking at the wrong temperature. Fix: Bake at 375°F–400°F; too low makes them greasy, and too high burns the outside before the inside is hot.
  • Mistake: Using cold cheese straight from the fridge. Fix: Let cheese and other fillings come to room temperature so they melt quickly and evenly in the oven.
  • Mistake: Crowding the baking sheet. Fix: Space the Pepperoni Pizza Bombs about 1-2 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and browning.
  • Mistake: Not letting the dough rest before filling. Fix: If using homemade dough, let it rest for 10-15 minutes after portioning so it’s easier to stretch and shape without tearing.

Storing Tips

  • Fridge: Store cooled Pepperoni Pizza Bombs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Bake at 375°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 10–15 minutes from refrigerated or 20–25 minutes from frozen.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are heated to a safe temperature before serving.

Conclusion

These Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are the ultimate easy snack for any pizza lover. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our 2 Ingredient Pizza Chips Recipe or Pizza Tacos Recipe next. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your results and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

Print

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Delicious pizza dough pockets filled with pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoncini peppers, baked to golden perfection and served with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

  • Author: Sophie Lane
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x
  • Method: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 oz. mozzarella cheese, cut into 8 cubes
  • Olive oil, for brushing
  • Half batch of Homemade Pizza Dough or 11 ounces store-bought pizza dough
  • 16 slices pepperoni
  • 4 pepperoncini peppers, sliced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
  • Marinara sauce, warmed, for serving

Instructions

  1. Freeze cheese for 30 minutes. Heat oven to 400°F. Brush 12-cup muffin pan with oil, leaving middle row of 4 wells uncoated.
  2. Cut dough into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into 3 1/2-inch round (keep remaining dough covered). Top each round with 2 slices pepperoni, 1 cube partially frozen cheese, and 3 to 4 slices pepperoncini. Pull edges of each round toward center and pinch to seal thoroughly. Place, seam sides down, in prepared muffin pan wells.
  3. In small bowl, whisk together egg and 1 teaspoon water; brush over pizza bombs and sprinkle with oregano.
  4. Bake, rotating pan halfway through, until golden brown, 18 to 20 minutes.
  5. Let sit 5 minutes, then use small offset spatula to transfer bombs to plate. Serve with marinara sauce.

Notes

Freezing the cheese before assembling helps keep the cheese intact during baking. Using a muffin pan helps the bombs keep their shape and bake evenly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 181
  • Sugar: 1
  • Sodium: 397
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 3
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 19
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 7
  • Cholesterol: 38

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FAQs

Can I make Pepperoni Pizza Bombs ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. For best results, bake them just before serving so the dough stays fluffy.

What dipping sauce goes well with Pepperoni Pizza Bombs?

Marinara sauce is the classic choice for dipping Pepperoni Pizza Bombs. You could also use ranch dressing or a garlic butter dip. These sauces complement the cheesy, savory flavors perfectly.

Can I freeze Pepperoni Pizza Bombs after baking?

Yes, you can freeze baked Pepperoni Pizza Bombs. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

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