Get ready to elevate your snack game with these irresistible Cheesy Deep Dish Pepperoni Pizza Bites! Perfectly baked in a muffin tin, these delightful bites pack all the flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza into a fun, bite-sized treat. Whether you're hosting a game day party, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or simply craving something cheesy and delicious, these pizza bites are sure to impress. With gooey mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and a hint of Italian seasoning, each bite is a little piece of heaven. Don’t miss out on this mouthwatering recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 12 bites
Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Remove the refrigerated pizza dough from packaging and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to become more pliable and easier to work with.
- On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a thin rectangular sheet approximately 1/8 inch thick.
- Using a round cookie cutter or drinking glass, cut 12 circular dough pieces large enough to line the muffin tin cups completely, with a slight overhang.
- Carefully press each dough circle into the muffin tin cups, ensuring the dough covers the bottom and sides evenly.
- Sprinkle a small amount of Italian seasoning into each dough-lined cup for additional flavor.
- Place 2-3 pepperoni slices at the bottom of each dough cup, creating a base layer.
- Add a generous pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni slices.
- Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce into each cup, covering the cheese and pepperoni.
- Top each bite with another sprinkle of mozzarella cheese and 1-2 additional pepperoni slices.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes to allow the bites to set.
- Carefully remove the pizza bites using a small offset spatula or butter knife, placing them on a wire cooling rack.
- Serve warm and garnish with additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Dough Handling: Make sure to let the refrigerated pizza dough sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will make it more pliable and easier to roll out, ensuring a perfect fit in your muffin tin.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some minced garlic or crushed red pepper flakes to the Italian seasoning before sprinkling it in the dough-lined cups.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Adding a bit of provolone or cheddar can enhance the flavor profile of your pizza bites.
- Pepperoni Alternatives: If you're feeling adventurous, substitute pepperoni with other toppings like cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, or olives for a unique twist on this recipe.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these pizza bites warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. You can also garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of freshness.
- Storage: These pizza bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick snack!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 123kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 11mg
