Pizza Rolls – Totino’s Copycat

Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with all your favorite pizza flavors — these homemade Pizza Rolls are a fun and delicious twist on a classic snack. Forget the freezer aisle, because these are fresh, hot, and bursting with gooey mozzarella, tangy sauce, and savory pepperoni. Once you try them, you’ll never go back to store-bought.

Behind the Recipe

These pizza rolls came to life on a game night when I wanted that nostalgic Totino’s flavor without the processed taste. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of creativity, I discovered that wonton wrappers make the perfect crispy shell. The filling? A classic combo of mozzarella, pizza sauce, and herbs that hits every comfort food note.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

The original Totino’s Pizza Rolls were created in the 1960s as a snack version of pizza — crispy on the outside, saucy and cheesy inside. This homemade version captures that same spirit but uses fresh ingredients and real flavor. Think of it as nostalgia upgraded — familiar, fun, and unbelievably satisfying.

Why You’ll Love Pizza Rolls – Totino’s Copycat

These bite-sized treats are easy, customizable, and dangerously addictive.

Versatile: Perfect for parties, snacks, or even dinner with a salad.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry ingredients.

Quick and Easy: Comes together faster than delivery.

Customizable: Fill with your favorite toppings — veggies, sausage, or extra cheese.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze before frying for a quick snack anytime.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat in the air fryer for crispy perfection.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Seal tightly: A dab of water on the edges keeps the filling from leaking during frying.
2. Don’t overfill: Too much filling will cause bursting.
3. Fry in batches: This keeps oil temperature stable and ensures even cooking.
4. Drain on paper towels: Keeps the rolls crisp and light.
5. Try baking or air-frying: Both work great for a lighter version.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

A few kitchen essentials make this recipe foolproof.

Mixing Bowl: To combine the filling.
Small Spoon: For scooping the filling into wrappers.
Pastry Brush: For sealing edges with water.
Deep Skillet or Fryer: For frying until golden.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To remove rolls from oil safely.
Paper Towels: For draining excess oil.

Ingredients in Pizza Rolls – Totino’s Copycat

Every bite of these crispy rolls is packed with classic pizza flavor.

1. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 1½ cups. Melts into that irresistible gooey texture.
2. Pizza Sauce: ¾ cup. Adds tangy tomato flavor.
3. Chopped Turkey Pepperoni: ½ cup. Brings that signature savory bite.
4. Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon. For a hint of spice.
5. Dried Oregano: ½ teaspoon. Adds that classic pizzeria aroma.
6. Grated Parmesan: ¼ cup. Deepens flavor with a salty, nutty finish.
7. Chopped Basil: 1 tablespoon. Fresh and fragrant.
8. Chopped Parsley: 1 tablespoon. Adds brightness and color.
9. Wonton Wrappers: 25 pieces. Crispy, light, and the perfect shell.
10. Vegetable Oil: For frying. Ensures even golden crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Turkey Pepperoni: Use beef or veggie pepperoni.
Pizza Sauce: Marinara or tomato basil sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese: Substitute with provolone or Monterey Jack.
Vegetable Oil: Use canola or sunflower oil for frying.
Wonton Wrappers: Egg roll wrappers cut in half.

Ingredient Spotlight

Wonton Wrappers: These thin sheets fry up beautifully crisp, making them perfect for handheld snacks.

Mozzarella Cheese: The star of every pizza recipe, it creates that irresistible cheese pull.

Instructions for Making Pizza Rolls – Totino’s Copycat

These pizza rolls are fun to assemble and quick to cook — ideal for a weekend snack or party platter.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a bowl, mix mozzarella, pizza sauce, turkey pepperoni, red pepper flakes, oregano, parmesan, basil, and parsley until well blended.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Brush the edges with a little water.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold diagonally to form a triangle or roll up burrito-style, pressing edges firmly to seal.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Sprinkle lightly with grated parmesan and a pinch of oregano while still warm.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve hot with extra pizza sauce or marinara for dipping. Watch them disappear fast!

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These rolls strike the perfect balance — crispy on the outside, cheesy and saucy inside. The herbs bring freshness while the pepperoni and cheese give that nostalgic pizza shop aroma. Every bite feels like a perfect mini pizza explosion.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the pan — it cools the oil.
• Keep finished rolls warm in a low oven while frying the rest.
• Air-fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes for a lighter version.
• Use a thermometer to maintain even oil temperature.

What to Avoid

• Overfilling — it leads to messy leaks.
• Skipping the seal — oil will seep in and make them soggy.
• Using cold cheese — it doesn’t melt as evenly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 310

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and freeze them uncooked. When ready to eat, fry straight from frozen — just add a minute or two to the cook time. Leftover cooked rolls can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in an air fryer.

How to Serve Pizza Rolls – Totino’s Copycat

Serve them on a platter with bowls of marinara or ranch for dipping. They also pair perfectly with a side salad or even as a fun game-day appetizer.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Chop them and toss into pasta for a cheesy topping.
• Serve over greens for a pizza-inspired salad.
• Reheat in an air fryer and stuff into sub rolls with extra sauce.

Additional Tips

• Keep a small bowl of water nearby for sealing wrappers.
• Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting.
• For extra crispness, double-fry briefly after cooling.

Make It a Showstopper

Pile them high on a plate, sprinkle fresh parsley and grated parmesan, and add a drizzle of pizza sauce for color. Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing — it’s a guaranteed crowd magnet.

Variations to Try

• Veggie Pizza Rolls: Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
• BBQ Chicken Rolls: Swap the filling for BBQ sauce and shredded chicken.
• Supreme Style: Add olives and onions for extra flavor.
• Cheesy Lovers: Mix mozzarella, provolone, and cheddar.
• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños and hot sauce to the filling.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q2: Can I freeze them before cooking?

Absolutely! Lay them flat on a tray to freeze, then store in bags.

Q3: What oil is best for frying?

Use neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil.

Q4: How do I reheat them?

Use an oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

Q5: Can I make them gluten-free?

Use gluten-free wonton wrappers if available.

Q6: Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack work great.

Q7: How long do leftovers last?

Up to 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

Q8: Can I use egg roll wrappers instead?

Yes, just cut them in half and seal tightly.

Q9: Are they good for parties?

They’re perfect — easy to grab and full of flavor.

Q10: Can I make them ahead for meal prep?

Yes, just assemble and freeze. Fry or air-fry as needed.

Conclusion

These Pizza Rolls – Totino’s Copycat are everything you love about classic pizza bites but fresher, crispier, and way more flavorful. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, they deliver that melty, saucy goodness every time. Perfect for snacks, parties, or just when you’re craving comfort, these rolls are pure nostalgia in every bite.

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