Doritos Pizza Rolls with Sausage

There’s something magical about the first bite of a Doritos Pizza Roll with Sausage—the satisfying crunch of the Doritos coating, the gooey stretch of melted cheese, and that bold punch of Italian sausage all wrapped into one glorious handheld bite. These are no ordinary snacks. They’re golden, cheesy, crispy pockets of joy that erupt with savory goodness the moment you bite in. Whether you’re prepping for game day, a movie night, or just indulging in a flavorful craving, these pizza rolls are your ticket to cheesy, spicy heaven.

Behind the Recipe

Growing up, pizza rolls were the ultimate after-school snack. But somewhere along the way, the kid in me wondered: what if they could be even better? One evening, with a half-eaten bag of Nacho Cheese Doritos and some leftover sausage in the fridge, I decided to experiment. What came out of the oven that night was a crunchy, spicy, and downright addictive twist on a childhood classic. That’s how these Doritos Pizza Rolls with Sausage were born—a little nostalgic, a little rebellious, and a whole lot of delicious.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While pizza rolls were first popularized in the 1960s by food innovator Jeno Paulucci, they’ve evolved far beyond their humble beginnings. Today, they’ve become a canvas for creative cooks everywhere. This recipe combines the essence of Italian-American cuisine with the all-American love for Doritos. The result? A playful fusion snack that brings bold flavors and crunchy texture into one addictive bite. And while traditional pizza rolls rely on doughy exteriors, this version flips the script with a chip-crusted shell that’s straight-up genius.

Why You’ll Love Doritos Pizza Rolls with Sausage

These aren’t your average pizza rolls. Here’s why you’ll fall in love bite after bite:

Versatile: Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or even a fun dinner—they fit any occasion.
Budget-Friendly: A few simple ingredients make a big batch without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: Simple to prep and fast to bake—ready in under an hour.
Customizable: Swap out the sausage, try different Doritos flavors, or add veggies.
Crowd-Pleasing: The bold flavor and gooey center are always a hit with guests.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble and freeze them for a quick snack any time.
Great for Leftovers: They reheat beautifully and taste just as amazing the next day.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

These golden bites are easy to master with a few insider tricks:

• Crush Doritos finely: The finer the crumb, the better it adheres to the rolls and delivers that perfect crunch.
• Use parchment paper: It prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
• Don’t overfill: A tablespoon of filling is just right to avoid bursting.
• Seal edges tightly: A fork-press helps lock in all that cheesy sausage goodness.
• Cool before serving: Let them rest a couple of minutes after baking to set and avoid molten cheese burns.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To bring these bold bites to life, here’s what you’ll need:

Food Processor: For turning Doritos into a fine, even crumb.
Mixing Bowls: To combine and prep fillings and coatings.
Baking Sheet: A sturdy surface for perfect baking.
Parchment Paper: Keeps rolls from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Rolling Pin: To flatten the dough into perfect sheets (if using homemade).
Knife or Pizza Cutter: To cut dough into uniform squares.
Fork: For sealing the edges with that classic crimped look.

Ingredients in Doritos Pizza Rolls with Sausage

Let’s talk flavor—each component adds something essential to the mix. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Refrigerated Pizza Dough: 1 roll (about 13.8 oz) adds a soft, chewy base that holds everything together.
2. Italian Sausage: ½ pound, cooked and crumbled for spicy, savory depth.
3. Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup shredded for that irresistible stretch and melt.
4. Marinara Sauce: ½ cup to add a tangy, herby core to each bite.
5. Doritos (Nacho Cheese): 2 cups crushed, for a crunchy, zesty coating.
6. Egg: 1 large, beaten to help the Doritos crumbs stick and create a crispy crust.
7. Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon to add that classic pizza flavor.
8. Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon for a punch of savory aroma.
9. Olive Oil Spray: Light misting ensures golden browning and a crispy finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to tweak the recipe? Here are some easy swaps:

Pizza Dough: Use crescent roll dough for a flakier texture.
Italian Sausage: Ground turkey or veggie sausage work beautifully.
Mozzarella Cheese: Try provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Marinara Sauce: Use pizza sauce or even tomato pesto.
Doritos: Swap with Cool Ranch or Spicy Sweet Chili for a flavor twist.
Egg: Use milk as a binder in a pinch.

Ingredient Spotlight

Doritos (Nacho Cheese): These iconic chips bring more than crunch—they pack a punch of zesty, cheesy flavor that transforms the humble pizza roll into a bold snack masterpiece.

Italian Sausage: Adds a savory, spiced element that balances the creamy cheese and tangy marinara, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.

Instructions for Making Doritos Pizza Rolls with Sausage

Ready to get rolling? Here’s how we build these crunchy, cheesy delights:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a bowl, mix the cooked sausage, shredded mozzarella, marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Lightly grease the parchment-lined baking sheet with olive oil spray.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Roll out the pizza dough and cut into 2-inch squares. Place a tablespoon of filling in each. Fold diagonally into triangles and press edges with a fork to seal.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Dip each roll in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly in crushed Doritos. Arrange on the baking sheet and lightly spray tops with olive oil.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and crispy. Let cool slightly on a wire rack.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Plate warm with extra marinara for dipping. Trust me, they won’t last long!

Texture & Flavor Secrets

Each bite is a masterclass in contrast: a crisp, crunchy Doritos shell gives way to melty mozzarella and hearty sausage. The rich marinara sauce inside adds moisture and tang, while the outer coating explodes with zesty cheese flavor. It’s the ultimate trifecta—crunchy, gooey, and savory.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few helpful pointers to make your kitchen time smoother:

• Use cold dough for easier cutting and shaping.
• Freeze the rolls for 10 minutes before baking for better structure.
• For extra crispiness, bake on a wire rack placed over the sheet pan.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.

What to Avoid

Even the tastiest recipes can go off-track. Watch out for:

• Overfilling rolls: They’ll burst and leak in the oven.
• Skipping the egg wash: Your Doritos coating won’t stick.
• Baking at too low a temperature: They’ll end up soggy, not crisp.
• Using too much sauce inside: It can make the filling watery.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 rolls
Calories per serving: 210

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can easily prep these ahead—assemble them up to a day in advance and refrigerate, or freeze unbaked rolls for up to a month. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to revive that crispy crust. They’re just as good (if not better) the next day.

How to Serve Doritos Pizza Rolls with Sausage

Serve them with little ramekins of warm marinara, creamy ranch, or spicy garlic sauce. They shine on game day platters, party trays, or as the ultimate snacky dinner. Pair them with a fresh Caesar salad or garlic knots for a full meal experience.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Got extras? Try these tasty revamps:

• Chop and toss them into a cheesy pasta bake.
• Slice and skewer with cherry tomatoes and basil for party bites.
• Reheat, flatten, and press into grilled cheese for a crispy twist.

Additional Tips

Want to take things further?

• For a smoky note, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the filling.
• Use a variety of cheeses like fontina or asiago for flavor complexity.
• Let the Doritos sit uncovered after crushing to maintain maximum crunch.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation matters—here’s how to wow:

• Serve on a wooden board with dips in mini bowls.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color.
• Add a dusting of parmesan just before serving for an elegant finish.

Variations to Try

Put your own spin on these crunchy rolls:

• Spicy Jalapeño Popper: Add diced jalapeños and cream cheese to the filling.
• Veggie Supreme: Use sautéed mushrooms, onions, and peppers in place of sausage.
• Buffalo Chicken: Swap sausage for shredded buffalo chicken and blue cheese.
• Taco Twist: Use taco-seasoned beef and cheddar with Cool Ranch Doritos.
• Breakfast Style: Scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheddar wrapped in dough.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use homemade pizza dough?

A1: Absolutely! Just roll it thin and cut into small squares for easier handling.

Q2: Are these freezer-friendly?

A2: Yes, freeze unbaked rolls and bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes.

Q3: Can I use an air fryer?

A3: Definitely! Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.

Q4: What’s the best dipping sauce?

A4: Marinara is classic, but ranch or spicy mayo also pair deliciously.

Q5: Can I make them vegetarian?

A5: Swap sausage with mushrooms, olives, or a veggie sausage alternative.

Q6: What kind of Doritos work best?

A6: Nacho Cheese gives that iconic flavor, but Spicy Nacho or Cool Ranch are great too.

Q7: Can kids help make these?

A7: Yes! Let them crush the chips or seal the rolls—just keep an eye on the oven.

Q8: How do I keep the filling from leaking?

A8: Don’t overfill and make sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork.

Q9: Do I need to flip them while baking?

A9: Not necessary if using parchment, but you can flip for extra even browning.

Q10: Can I make a large batch?

A10: Absolutely! Double the recipe and freeze half for a future snack attack.

Conclusion

Doritos Pizza Rolls with Sausage aren’t just a snack—they’re an event. Crunchy, cheesy, meaty, and just the right amount of rebellious, they hit every craving spot with gusto. Whether you’re making them for friends, family, or just a solo night of indulgence, trust me, you’re going to love this. Try them once and you’ll see—they’re worth every bite.

watch how to make Doritos Pizza Rolls with Sausage