If you’re craving the flavors of a classic pizza but want something a little different, this Cheesy Beef and Pepper Pizza Roll is the perfect recipe. Combining savory ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan-peppercorn dressing, all wrapped up in a crispy pizza dough, this dish is sure to satisfy your pizza cravings with a unique twist
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent the pizza roll from sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it begins to brown. As the beef cooks, break it apart with a spatula into small crumbles. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to infuse the mixture with flavor. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet and set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Dough
While the beef mixture cools, unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a clean, flat surface. If the dough is sticky, lightly flour the surface before unrolling. Stretch and press the dough out into a large rectangle, ensuring an even thickness throughout.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza Roll
Spread half of the Parmesan-peppercorn dressing evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This dressing adds a creamy, tangy layer that pairs beautifully with the beef and vegetables. Next, evenly distribute the beef and vegetable mixture over the dressing. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, covering the beef mixture evenly.
Step 5: Roll the Dough
Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, similar to rolling up a jelly roll. Pinch the seams and ends of the dough to seal the roll and prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza Roll
Place the rolled dough seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the roll is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly inside. The crust should be crispy and slightly browned, indicating that the dough is fully cooked.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pizza roll is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice the roll into 1-inch thick pieces and serve warm. Drizzle the remaining Parmesan-peppercorn dressing over the slices for an extra burst of flavor, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce
Bonus Tips
Add Extra Vegetables: For a more veggie-packed roll, consider adding sliced mushrooms, spinach, or olives to the filling.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the beef mixture or add sliced jalapeños before rolling up the dough.
Make It Ahead: You can assemble the pizza roll ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef and Pepper Pizza Roll is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a new format. With its savory beef filling, melty cheese, and tangy Parmesan-peppercorn dressing, wrapped in a golden, crispy crust, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Perfect for a quick dinner, a game day snack, or a party appetizer, this pizza roll is as versatile as it is tasty. Slice it up, serve it warm, and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!