Veggie Pizza Pinwheels are fun little snacks that are perfect for everyone! They’re made with tasty pizza dough, filled with colorful veggies, and topped with gooey cheese.
These pinwheels are easy to make and great for parties or a quick lunch. I love to dip them in marinara sauce—yum! Who could resist a tasty bite of pizza goodness? 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: I like using crescent roll dough for its ease. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, whole wheat pizza dough is a great alternative. You can also make your own dough if you’re feeling adventurous!
Pizza Sauce: Either pizza or marinara sauce works well. If you’re short on time, store-bought is fine! For a low-sodium option, try homemade sauce or tomato puree seasoned with herbs.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice for its melting quality, but I love adding cheddar for extra flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Vegetables: Get creative! Broccoli, bell pepper, and onion are delicious, but feel free to swap in spinach, zucchini, or even artichokes based on what’s in your fridge. Frozen veggies work too—just thaw and drain them first.
How Do I Roll the Dough Without It Falling Apart?
Rolling the dough can be tricky, but here are some simple tips to help you succeed. Start rolling from one long edge to maintain even pressure. If the dough feels sticky, flour your surface lightly. If it tears, don’t worry—just pinch it back together. The filling will help keep everything intact!
- Always keep the filling evenly spread, but don’t overfill to avoid leaks while rolling.
- Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the pinwheels for clean edges.
- Chill the rolled log for 10 minutes before cutting if you need to firm it up a bit. This helps maintain shape.
How to Make Veggie Pizza Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced tomato (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms (optional)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or mixed herbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This fun and easy recipe takes about 25 minutes in total—10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for baking. Perfect for a quick snack or a delicious appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, broccoli, and mushrooms if you’re using them. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove from heat and let cool for a moment.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
On a clean surface, roll out the crescent roll dough or pizza dough into a rectangle that’s roughly 10×12 inches. This is where your yummy fillings will go!
4. Add the Sauce and Cheese:
Spread the pizza or marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and optional cheddar cheese evenly over the sauce. This melt-in-your-mouth cheesy goodness is key!
5. Layer the Veggies:
Evenly distribute the sautéed vegetable mixture and fresh diced tomato, if desired, over the cheese. Finally, sprinkle the Italian seasoning on top for an extra flavor kick.
6. Roll it Up:
Starting with the long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape. This keeps all those delicious fillings inside!
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. They should look like colorful little spirals.
8. Bake Them:
Place the pinwheels flat on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced slightly apart. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to eat without burning your fingers! Serve them warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.
Enjoy your colorful, cheesy veggie pizza pinwheels! They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the broccoli, bell pepper, or any other veggies with your favorites. Spinach, zucchini, or even shredded carrots work great too—just make sure to chop them finely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pinwheels and slice them a day ahead. Just cover them well and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes for an easy prep before a party!
What Can I Serve with Veggie Pizza Pinwheels?
These pinwheels are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a simple salad on the side for a balanced meal!
