Who doesn’t love pizza rolls? They are perfect for a quick snack or late-night craving. But how do you prepare them? And what’s the recommended cooking time?
If you’ve ever wondered how to nail the pizza rolls cook time every time, you’re in the right place. As someone who’s cooked countless batches and experimented with every method, I’m here to share my expertise and guide you to pizza roll perfection.
What Are Pizza Rolls?
Pizza rolls are small, doughy snacks filled with pizza ingredients like mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, tomato sauce, and sometimes veggies or other meats.
Brands like Totino’s have made them a household name, but you can also find homemade versions or other store-bought options. They’re quick and easy to cook for anyone craving a fast, delicious bite.
Why Pizza Rolls Cook Time Matters
The pizza rolls cook time unlocks the perfect texture and flavor. Cook them too little, and you risk a cold center that’s unsafe to eat. Overcook them, and you’ll end up with a tough, dry exterior and a filling that’s lost its gooey appeal.
As an expert who’s tested every method, I can tell you that getting the pizza roll cook time right is a game-changer. It’s not just about following instructions; it’s about understanding how heat works with these little snacks to deliver the best results.
How to Cook Pizza Rolls
There are several ways to cook pizza rolls, and each method has its own pizza roll cooking time. Below, I’ll break down the most popular methods—oven, air fryer, and microwave-based.
1. Cooking Pizza Rolls in the Oven
The oven is the classic way to cook pizza rolls, and it’s my go-to method for a crispy outside and a perfectly melted inside. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Process
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating is crucial for even cooking.
2. Prepare the Pizza Rolls
- Place your pizza rolls on a baking sheet. For best results, use a single layer and leave a little space between each roll.
3. Set the Pizza Rolls Cook Time
- Bake for 10-14 minutes.
- Check the package for exact times, but 12 minutes is usually perfect for most brands like Totino’s.
4. Flip Halfway
- After 6-7 minutes, flip the rolls to ensure even crispiness.
5. Check for Doneness
- The rolls should be golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Let them cool for 2-3 minutes before eating—they’ll be hot!
Pizza Rolls Cook Time in the Oven:
- Quantity: 6-10 rolls
- Time: 10-12 minutes
- Quantity: 20-50 rolls
- Time: 12-14 minutes
Tips for Success
- Use a dark baking sheet for extra crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding to prevent soggy rolls.
- For a golden finish, brush with a little oil or butter before baking.
2. Cooking Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer
The air fryer is a game-changer for pizza rolls, offering a faster pizza rolls cook time and an ultra-crispy texture. I’ve tested this method extensively, and it’s perfect for small batches.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set it to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Arrange the Pizza Rolls
- Place the rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t stack them!
3. Set the Pizza Rolls Cook Time
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Check for Doneness
- The rolls should be crispy and golden. Let them cool for 2 minutes.
Pizza Rolls Cook Time in the Air Fryer:
- Quantity: 6-12 rolls
- Time: 6-8 minutes
- Temperature: 380°F (190°C)
Tips for Success
- Don’t overfill the basket—air needs to circulate.
- Spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
- Adjust time slightly based on your air fryer model.
3. Cooking Pizza Rolls in the Microwave
The microwave is the fastest option, but it sacrifices some crispiness. It’s ideal for when you’re short on time. Here’s how I do it:
Step-by-Step Process
1. Arrange the Pizza Rolls
- Place them on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer.
2. Set the Pizza Rolls Cook Time
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on quantity.
3. Check and Rotate
- After 1 minute, check and rotate the rolls for even heating.
4. Let Cool
- Wait 2 minutes before eating—they’ll be very hot.
Pizza Rolls Cook Time in the Microwave
- Quantity: 6 rolls
- Time: 1 minute
- Quantity: 12 rolls
- Time: 2 minutes
Tips for Success
- Use a microwave-safe plate with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
- Don’t expect crispiness—this method is about speed.
- Check the center to ensure it’s hot.
Pizza Rolls Cook Time
Here’s a quick comparison of pizza rolls’ cooking time across methods
| Method | Cook time | Temperature | Texture | Best for |
| Oven | 10-14 minutes | 425°F (220°C) | Crispy, even | Large batches |
| Air Fryer | 6-8 minutes | 380°F (190°C) | Extra crispy | Small batches, speed |
| Microwave | 1-2 minutes | High power | Soft, less crispy | Quick snacks |
Each method has its strengths, so choose based on your needs and time constraints.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Pizza Rolls Cook Time
Even with the right pizza rolls cook time, mistakes can ruin your snack. Here’s what I’ve learned to avoid:
a) Overcrowding
Too many rolls on the tray or basket can lead to uneven cooking.
b) Not Preheating
Skipping this step can result in soggy rolls.
c) Overcooking
Going beyond the recommended pizza rolls cook time can dry them out.
d) Not Flipping
For oven and air fryer methods, flipping ensures even crispiness.
e) Eating Too Soon
They’re hot! Let them cool for 2 minutes to avoid burns.
How to Tell When Pizza Rolls Are Done
Knowing when your pizza rolls are perfectly cooked is key to mastering pizza roll cooking time. Here’s what to look for:
1. Color
Golden brown exterior.
2. Texture
Crispy outside, soft inside.
3. Temperature
Hot all the way through (use a thermometer if unsure—165°F/74°C internally).
4. No Leaking
If they’re bursting, they’ve been overcooked.
Enhancing Your Pizza Rolls Experience
Once you’ve mastered pizza roll cook time, why not take your snack game to the next level? Here are some ideas:
Dipping Sauces
Pair with marinara, ranch, or garlic butter for extra flavor.
Toppings
Sprinkle with Parmesan or red pepper flakes after cooking.
Customization
Make homemade pizza rolls with your favorite fillings for a personal touch.
Different Pizza brands with their cooking time
| Brand | Device | Temperature | Cooking time | Notes |
| DiGiorno | Oven | 425°F (220°C) | 20-25 min | Place directly on the oven rack. Adjust time for additional toppings. |
| Air Fryer | 400°F (200°C) | 12-15 min | Cook time may vary based on the air fryer model. Check for doneness. | |
| Red Baron | Oven | 400°F (205°C) | 16-18 min | On a baking sheet for even cooking. |
| Microwave | High | 4-6 min | Cook on a microwave-safe plate. Cooking time depends on the wattage of the microwave. | |
| Totino’s | Oven | 425°F (220°C) | 10-12 min | Use a baking sheet. Great for quick snacks. |
| Air Fryer | 380°F (190°C) | 6-8 min | Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking. | |
| Microwave | High | 1-2 min | For a single serving. Check for even heating. | |
| Home Run Inn | Oven | 425°F (220°C) | 14-20 min | Middle rack, no pan. Add 2 minutes per topping. |
| Ellio’s | Oven | 425°F (220°C) | 10-15 min | Rectangular pizza, adjust the time for desired crispness. |
| Air Fryer | 400°F (200°C) | 5 min | French bread or rectangle pizza specifics. | |
| Freschetta | Oven | 400°F (205°C) | 18-20 min | On a baking sheet, crispier crust at the bottom. |
| California Pizza Kitchen | Oven | 425°F (220°C) | 18-22 min | Premium ingredients might require watching towards the end for perfect doneness. |
| Screamin’ Sicilian | Oven | 425°F (220°C) | 22-25 min | Known for a thick crust, might need longer for the center to cook through. |
| Newman’s Own | Oven | 425°F (220°C) | 15-20 min | Use the middle rack for even cooking. |
Homemade pizza rolls
Ingredients
- Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade (about 1 lb for 24 rolls)
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded, about 1 cup
- Pepperoni: Sliced, about 30-40 slices (or your choice of meat)
- Marinara Sauce: 1/2 cup for filling, plus more for dipping
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Olive Oil: For brushing
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated, for topping (optional)
Equipment
- Rolling Pin
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
- Small Bowl for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- If using homemade dough: Let it come to room temperature if it is refrigerated. If frozen, thaw it first.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for around 12×18 inches.
Step 2: Add Fillings
- Lightly spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch border along one of the long sides (this will be the seam when you roll it up).
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then lay out pepperoni slices. You can also add other toppings like diced bell peppers, onions, or sausage at this point.
Step 3: Roll and Slice
- Starting from the long side opposite the border you left, tightly roll the dough into a log. Seal the edge by pinching the dough where you left the border.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the log into 1-inch pieces. You should get about 24 rolls.
Step 4: Arrange for Baking
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
- Lay out the pizza rolls on the sheet, cut side down, with some space between them for even baking.
Step 5: Season and Bake
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a little Parmesan cheese if using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the rolls cool for about 5 minutes on the tray to prevent burns.
- Serve with additional warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst open while baking.
- Make sure to seal the edge of the dough well to keep the filling inside.
- Experiment with different fillings like spinach and feta for a different flavor profile.
- These rolls can be frozen before baking. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How to Store Uncooked Totino’s Pizza Rolls
In the Freezer
- If you’ve only opened the box, you can keep the remaining pizza rolls in their original packaging. Make sure to close the bag tightly or seal it with a clip to keep air out.
- For better preservation, transfer the rolls to an airtight container or a freezer-safe zip-lock bag. This helps prevent freezer burn.
- Always label the container or bag with the date so you know how long they’ve been stored. They can typically be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months for best quality.
Refrigeration
- Let the cooked pizza rolls cool to room temperature to avoid condensation inside the storage container.
- Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. They can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- As with refrigeration, let the rolls cool completely first.
- Optionally, spread the cooked rolls on a baking sheet and freeze them individually for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Again, label with the date.
Reheating
From Refrigerator
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until hot.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat for about 1-2 minutes.
From Freezer
- Oven: Similar to fridge reheating but might need an extra few minutes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Air Fryer: For a crispier texture, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Microwave: Not ideal for texture but can be done. Use the defrost setting or about 50% power for 3-4 minutes, then let stand for a minute.
FAQs
1. How long do you cook pizza rolls in the oven?
The pizza rolls cook time in the oven is 10-14 minutes at 425°F (220°C), depending on quantity. Flip halfway for even cooking.
2. Can you cook pizza rolls in an air fryer?
Yes! The pizza rolls’ cooking time in an air fryer is 6-8 minutes at 380°F (190°C). Shake the basket halfway through.
3. How do you cook pizza rolls in the microwave?
Microwave pizza rolls for 1-2 minutes on high, depending on quantity. They won’t be crispy but are quick to make.
4. Why are my pizza rolls soggy?
Soggy rolls can result from overcrowding, not preheating, or using the microwave. Follow the recommended pizza roll cooking time and method for best results.
5. Can I freeze pizza rolls after cooking?
Yes, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Conclusion
There you have it—your ultimate guide to pizza rolls cook time! Whether you’re using an oven, air fryer, or microwave, you now have the knowledge and tools to cook pizza rolls perfectly every time.
So, grab a bag of pizza rolls, set your timer, and enjoy the delicious results. Happy cooking!