Delicious Pizza Balls: Your New Favorite Snack

Introduction

If you’re on the hunt for a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, look no further than these Delicious Pizza Balls! Perfectly cheesy, loaded with your favorite pizza toppings, and encased in a soft, golden dough, these pizza balls are the ultimate finger food for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family movie night, or simply craving a savory treat, these pizza balls will quickly become your new go-to snack. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 For the Dough:
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
• 2 For the Filling:
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 For the Marinara Sauce:
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 4 For Garnish (optional):
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes, or until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, sausage, bell peppers, black olives, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.

3. Assemble the Pizza Balls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 20-24 equal pieces.
3. Flatten each piece into a small disk. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling onto the center of each disk.
4. Gather the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch them together to seal. Roll into a ball and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the Pizza Balls

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. While the pizza balls bake, prepare the marinara sauce by mixing the marinara sauce, oregano, and garlic powder in a bowl.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the pizza balls from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Helpful Tips

• Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water.
• Filling Variations: Feel free to get creative with the filling. Try adding mushrooms, onions, or different types of cheese.
• Freezing: These pizza balls can be frozen before baking. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Substitutions/Variations

• Dough: Use store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time.
• Meat: Substitute the pepperoni and sausage with cooked chicken or turkey if preferred.
• Cheese: Try different cheese blends for varied flavors, like cheddar or provolone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these pizza balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pizza balls up to a day in advance. Assemble them, cover, and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving.

How do I reheat leftover pizza balls?

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

Can I use a different dipping sauce?

Absolutely! These pizza balls pair well with ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy marinara sauce.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover pizza balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

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Thank you for stopping by to check out this recipe for Delicious Pizza Balls. I hope you enjoy making and munching on these tasty snacks as much as I do. They’re perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to be a hit with friends and family. Happy snacking!