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Cheesy Pizza Pinwheels – Crispy, Melty & Perfect Party Bites

When you need a fast, fun, and universally loved appetizer, Cheesy Pizza Pinwheels are the answer. Flaky pizza dough rolled with savory sauce, melty cheese, and classic Italian seasoning bakes into golden spirals that disappear in minutes. These pinwheels deliver everything people love about pizza—gooey cheese, bold flavor, and irresistible aroma—in a bite-sized form that’s perfect for parties, game days, or easy family snacks. This recipe is designed for convenience without sacrificing flavor. Using refrigerated pizza dough keeps prep simple, while a balanced filling ensures each pinwheel is cheesy, saucy, and satisfying. They’re easy to customize, kid-friendly, and ideal for dipping—making them a reliable go-to whenever you need crowd-pleasing comfort food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
bake time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 20 pinwheels
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Simple ingredients combine to create classic pizza flavor in every spiral.
  • Beef or chicken pepperoni diced
  • Refrigerated pizza crust dough 2 tubes
  • Marinara sauce
  • Mozzarella cheese shredded
  • Parmesan cheese grated
  • Garlic salt
  • Italian seasoning

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter
  • Mixing spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the oven and dough
  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Unroll the pizza dough onto a clean surface and gently press into an even rectangle.
Step 2: Add the sauce
  1. Spread a thin, even layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  2. Too much sauce can cause the pinwheels to unravel, so keep it light.
Step 3: Layer the filling
  1. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
  2. Add grated Parmesan for extra savory depth.
  3. Scatter diced beef or chicken pepperoni across the surface.
  4. Season lightly with garlic salt and Italian seasoning.
Step 4: Roll and slice
  1. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
  2. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice into even pinwheels, about 1-inch thick.
Step 5: Bake
  1. Place pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
  2. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 6: Cool and serve
  1. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
  2. Serve warm for best flavor.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked pinwheels for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crisp edges and melty centers.
🥄 Variations
Switch things up while keeping the pizza-pinwheel magic:
Extra Cheesy: Add more mozzarella for gooey centers.
Veggie Pizza Pinwheels: Add diced bell peppers or olives.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle chili flakes into the filling.
Mini Pinwheels: Slice thinner for bite-sized party trays.
Dipping Style: Serve with extra marinara on the side.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do these taste like pizza?
Yes—classic pizza flavor in snack form.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
Why roll the dough tightly?
It helps pinwheels keep their shape.
Can kids enjoy these?
Absolutely—cheesy and mild.
Can I use homemade dough?
Yes, roll it thin for best results.
Do they get crispy on the bottom?
Yes, especially on parchment paper.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, perfect for parties.
What cheese melts best?
Mozzarella gives the best stretch.
How do I avoid soggy pinwheels?
Use a light layer of sauce.
Can I serve them cold?
They’re best warm, but still tasty at room temperature.
🏁 Conclusion
These Cheesy Pizza Pinwheels are everything you want in an easy appetizer—crispy edges, melty cheese, and bold Italian flavor. Quick to prepare and impossible to resist, they’re perfect for gatherings, snack boards, or anytime pizza cravings hit. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and guaranteed smiles make this recipe a keeper.