If there’s one thing that brings smiles to a dinner table faster than you can say “pizza sticks,” it’s this easy, cheesy crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re wrangling hungry kids after soccer practice or need a simple snack for a girls’ night in, these homemade pizza sticks are here to save the day—cheesy hands and all.
In my house, we call this recipe “peace on a plate.” It’s gooey, golden, and packed with melty mozzarella, crispy pepperoni, and wrapped in warm, fluffy dough. Best part? You only need six ingredients and about 20 minutes of your time. That’s right—fast, fun, and foolproof.
Let’s get you rolling.
Why You’ll Love These Pizza Sticks
Besides the fact that they’re downright addictive? Here are a few reasons these pizza sticks are a slam dunk:
- Quick and easy: Store-bought pizza dough makes it a breeze.
- Kid-friendly: No forks, no fuss—just dip and devour.
- Customizable: Swap the pepperoni for your favorite toppings.
- Snackable: Perfect for game night, lunchboxes, or late-night cravings.
Honestly, they’re like pizza’s cooler, handheld cousin—and who doesn’t want that in their recipe rotation?
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the super simple lineup for your new go-to snack:
- 1 (13.80 oz) can pizza dough
- 6 oz pepperoni slices
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Marinara or ranch for dipping
How to Make Homemade Pizza Sticks
Let’s keep this easy and mess-free, shall we?
1. Preheat and prep:
Start by setting your oven to 400°F so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. While it preheats, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Roll it out:
Open your can of pizza dough and gently unroll it onto a lightly floured surface or cutting board. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide the dough into 8 evenly sized rectangles. Try to keep the shapes fairly uniform so they cook evenly.
3. Assemble the sticks:
On each dough rectangle, layer 4 to 5 slices of pepperoni in the center, then place one mozzarella cheese stick right on top. Make sure everything is centered so you can wrap it up tightly without the filling peeking out.
4. Wrap it up:
Carefully roll the dough over the cheese and pepperoni like a little burrito, pinching the edges tightly so none of the cheesy goodness leaks out. Place each roll seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet to help keep them sealed during baking.
5. Butter it up:
In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Using a pastry brush (or even the back of a spoon), generously brush this buttery mix all over the tops of your pizza sticks. It adds flavor and helps them turn golden brown.
6. Bake to golden:
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden and the edges are just starting to crisp. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese begins to bubble out slightly—it’s a delicious sign!
7. Serve hot:
Take the pizza sticks out of the oven and let them cool for just a minute (if you can wait that long). Serve them warm with marinara or ranch on the side for dipping—and get ready for them to disappear faster than you can say “cheesy snack attack.”
Tips for Pizza Stick Success
- Cheese choice matters: Stick with mozzarella cheese sticks (the kind you throw in lunchboxes). They melt perfectly without oozing everywhere.
- Seal tightly: No one wants a cheese blowout. Make sure to pinch those edges well.
- Spice it up: Feeling adventurous? Add crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of parmesan on top.
A Little Story from My Kitchen
These started as a “what-can-I-make-with-leftover-pizza-dough” moment on a chaotic Thursday night. I was out of ideas and the kids were hangry (you know the look). I threw these together, served them with ranch (because let’s be real, ranch makes everything better), and the table went silent except for happy munching sounds.
Now they’re a staple—and not just for the kids. My husband devours them just as fast, usually straight off the tray.
FAQs About Pizza Sticks
Can I make these pizza sticks ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them in the morning, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when you’re ready.
What if I don’t like pepperoni?
No problem—try cooked sausage, mushrooms, or even just plain cheese for a homemade vegetarian version.
How should I store leftovers?
Wrap them in foil or an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Want More Cheesy Goodness?
Try these next:
- Cheesy Baked Ziti – comfort food at its finest
- Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs – for when you need to impress with zero stress
- Homemade Pepperoni Rolls – because portable pizza is always a win
These homemade pizza sticks are the kind of recipe you keep tucked in your back pocket for when you need something comforting, quick, and family-approved. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just treating yourself to a cheese-filled moment of joy, they deliver every time.
Try them once, and I promise—your freezer snacks are about to get a major glow-up.