Nothing bridges the gap between a fun-filled family gathering and a delightfully cheesy treat quite like Pizza-Filled Dough Balls. Imagine the anticipation building up as your loved ones, young and old, savor the aroma of freshly baked dough lingering in the kitchen. These golden brown bites, brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with herbs, bring the joy of pizza in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy evening or a lively party, these dough balls promise an explosion of flavors that will have everyone reaching for more.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 24 dough balls
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, halved (opt for halal or turkey pepperoni)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece and place a small cube of mozzarella and a piece of pepperoni in the center. Fold the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal, and roll into a ball.
- Arrange the stuffed dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture over the top of the dough balls.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Helpful Tips
- If you’re a beginner or short on time, use pre-made pizza dough from the store.
- For a vegetarian option, replace pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Experiment with different cheese fillings like cheddar or gouda for varied flavors.
Storage Instructions
- Store any leftover dough balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Pairings
- Enjoy these pizzalicious dough balls with a refreshing side salad or a comforting bowl of tomato soup.
- A chilled glass of lemonade or a classic soda pairs perfectly to balance out the savory flavors.
The mission of Zynahz is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, one recipe at a time. We hope this Pizza-Filled Dough Balls recipe sparks happiness and deliciousness in your home. We encourage you to try it out, share your delightful results with us, and spread the love by sharing this recipe with your friends and family. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter to stay inspired and updated with the latest culinary creations.
