Cheesy Pesto Mozzarella Rolls

Introduction:
Cheesy Pesto Mozzarella Rolls combine the aromatic flavors of basil pesto and the gooey goodness of mozzarella cheese, all wrapped in soft, fluffy dough. These savory rolls are perfect for parties, game day, or just a fun family snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Perfect for sharing: These rolls are ideal for gatherings or family meals.
• Cheesy and flavorful: The combination of melty mozzarella and pesto makes these rolls irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 (13.8 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade)
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
   • Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 12×8 inches. If using homemade dough, stretch it evenly into a similar shape.
3. Spread the Pesto:
   • Spread the pesto sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto layer, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Roll the Dough:
   • Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal the dough.
   • Slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls and place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush with Olive Oil and Season:
   • Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.
7. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
8. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil, if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for Success:

• Dough handling: Make sure to roll the dough tightly so the rolls hold their shape while baking.
• Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even ricotta for extra creaminess.

Recipe Variations:

• Add toppings: Include extras like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or pepperoni for added flavor.
• Spicy version: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these rolls with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• Pair with a light salad or vegetable soup for a complete meal.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These rolls can be frozen before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw slightly and bake as directed.

Special Equipment:

• Baking sheet or parchment paper for baking.
• Rolling pin (optional) for rolling out the dough.

FAQ:

• Can I use homemade dough?
  Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works great for this recipe. Just roll it out to the same dimensions.
• Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the rolls, cover them, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for prepping the dough and assembling the rolls.

Cook Time:

• 12-15 minutes for baking.

Total Time:

• 25 minutes (including prep and bake time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 8 rolls):

• Calories: 230
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

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Closing Notes:
These Cheesy Pesto Mozzarella Rolls are a surefire hit at any gathering or family meal. The combination of pesto, cheese, and soft dough is hard to resist, making them an ideal choice for any occasion!