Easy High Protein Pepperoni Pizza Rolls (Air Fryer Version)

High Protein Pepperoni Pizza Rolls (Air Fryer Version) are one of those recipes that combine indulgence with smart nutrition. Picture this: walking through the streets of Little Italy in New York City, the smell of fresh-baked pizza rolls in the air, families laughing, and the aroma of melted cheese pulling you closer to a corner pizzeria. That feeling stuck with me — I wanted to recreate it at home with a high-protein twist.

These air fryer pizza rolls are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with lean protein from turkey and cottage cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch, post-workout snack, or even a fun weeknight dinner. And the hot honey drizzle? A sweet-spicy finish that takes them to the next level.

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Table of Contents

Why These Air Fryer Protein Pizza Rolls Are a Game-Changer

Air Fryer Advantage

• Cooks quickly: 8–10 minutes per batch
• Crispy outside, cheesy inside
• Less oil than deep frying, making it healthier

Smart Protein Swaps

• Lean ground turkey instead of beef for fewer calories
• Cottage cheese + part-skim mozzarella adds protein and creaminess
• High-protein tortillas make the roll base hearty and filling

Ingredients for High Protein Pepperoni Pizza Rolls

Ingredient	Amount
High-protein tortillas	4
Lean ground turkey	½ lb
Olive oil	1 tsp
Garlic powder	¼ tsp
Onion powder	¼ tsp
Dried oregano	¼ tsp
Crushed red pepper flakes	¼ tsp (optional)
Salt & pepper	To taste
Whipped cottage cheese	½ cup
Shredded part-skim mozzarella	½ cup
Turkey pepperoni slices	20
Marinara sauce	¼ cup + extra for dipping
Hot honey	1 tbsp
Fresh basil leaves	Chopped, for garnish

More similar recipe :

• Butter Chicken
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
• Chicken Stroganoff

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Turkey Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for 6–7 minutes until browned and crumbly. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Making the Cheese Blend

1. In a bowl, combine whipped cottage cheese and shredded mozzarella.
2. Stir until smooth and creamy.

3. Assembling the Pizza Rolls

1. Lay out tortillas. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over each.
2. Add a spoonful of turkey mixture, a few slices of turkey pepperoni, and a generous dollop of cheese mixture.
3. Roll tortillas tightly into a log.
4. Slice each roll into 1½-inch pieces with a sharp knife.

4. Air Frying to Golden Perfection

1. Place rolls seam side down in the air fryer basket, lined with parchment or lightly sprayed with oil.
2. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. Drizzle lightly with hot honey immediately after cooking.
4. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce, garnished with basil and chili flakes.

💡 Tips for Crispy, Delicious Pizza Rolls

• Use sharp knife for even slices.
• Don’t overcrowd air fryer basket; cook in batches for best crispiness.
• Adjust hot honey to your preferred spice level.
• For extra crunch, lightly spray tops with oil before air frying.
• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat in air fryer for crispiness.

Flavor Variations & Customizations

• Swap turkey pepperoni for chicken sausage slices.
• Use vegan cheese and plant-based pepperoni for a vegetarian version.
• Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers inside for extra nutrients.
• Drizzle with sriracha honey or balsamic glaze instead of hot honey for new flavor.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

• Serve as appetizers or snack bites at parties.
• Pair with a green salad or Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Complement with sparkling water, iced tea, or a light red wine.

Health Benefits of High-Protein Air Fryer Meals

• Lean protein supports muscle recovery and satiety.
• Air frying reduces oil usage by 70–80% compared to pan-frying.
• High-protein tortillas + cottage cheese make a filling snack under 300 kcal per serving.
• Balanced macros: protein, carbs, and fats in each roll for energy and satisfaction.

FAQs: High Protein Pepperoni Pizza Rolls

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Conclusion

High Protein Pepperoni Pizza Rolls (Air Fryer Version) are crispy, cheesy, and protein-packed — a perfect snack or meal for busy days or post-workout fuel. Quick, flavorful, and versatile, they’re sure to impress both adults and kids.

For more savory comfort food ideas, check out our Chicken Bacon Mushroom Pasta recipe.