Cheese Mystery: Unraveling Pizza Rolls' Cheesy Center

Pizza rolls are a convenient snack that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are bite-sized, breaded pizza pockets with a filling of diced pepperoni, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. The cheese in pizza rolls is typically mozzarella, which is known for its mild flavour and excellent melting properties. However, some pizza rolls may also contain imitation mozzarella cheese, which is made from a blend of vegetable oils and modified food starch. For those who want to experiment with different flavours, other types of cheese such as provolone, cheddar, parmesan, and fontina can also be used in pizza rolls.

Mozzarella is the most popular choice for pizza

Mozzarella is made from cow's milk, providing a classic and familiar taste. It has a smooth and creamy texture that melts in the mouth, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. The cheese's high moisture content ensures a delightful burst of cheese with every bite, but this can also make the pizza dough soggy if not managed correctly. For this reason, low-moisture mozzarella is often used to achieve a denser texture and a saltier taste, ideal for a stretchy cheese layer.

Mozzarella's unique protein structure, specifically its casein protein, is what gives it its stretchiness. The milk composition, treatment, and processing techniques also play a role in the cheese's stretchiness. During the stretching process, the casein protein aligns and forms a mesh-like structure.

Mozzarella is a rich source of protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues and supporting overall health. It is also packed with fats that are good for your health, and it is an excellent choice for those who prioritise bone health due to its high calcium content.

In addition to its sensory appeal, mozzarella also has nutritional benefits. It is a good source of protein and calcium, and its moderate moisture content ensures a moist and flavorful pizza experience.

While mozzarella is the most popular choice for pizza, there are other cheeses that can be used as well. These include provolone, cheddar, parmesan, and fontina. However, mozzarella is typically the cheese of choice for its excellent melting properties and its ability to complement a variety of toppings.

Fresh vs low-moisture mozzarella

Pizza rolls are a vegetarian alternative to traditional pepperoni pizza roll-ups. They are made with homemade or store-bought pizza dough, marinara sauce, herbs, and mozzarella cheese.

Mozzarella cheese is the most common cheese used on pizzas, thanks to its signature cheese pull. However, there are two main categories of mozzarella: fresh and low-moisture.

Fresh mozzarella is a soft, bright white cheese usually made in different-sized ball formats. It is packed in water at the production facility or hand-wrapped in plastic wrap. It has a high moisture content and should be consumed within 7 days of production. When heated, the water evaporates and may settle as a "soupy" or "puddle" presence in the food. While it may work on a Neapolitan-style pizza, it doesn't usually work on heated sandwiches or other heated foods. This style is best eaten cold and fresh.

Low-moisture mozzarella, also known as "low-moisture part-skim", is made by souring fresh mozzarella a little longer and then carefully drying it out. It has a longer shelf life and a saltier flavour. The lower moisture content lends the cheese better browning and stretching abilities when heated, making it a popular choice for dishes like pizza. Most pizza places in the U.S. use low-moisture mozzarella as the primary cheese on their pizzas.

Other cheeses that work: provolone, smoked gouda, parmesan, ricotta, goat cheese

Pizza rolls are a great snack, but you can change up the type of cheese you use to create different flavours. Here are some alternatives to the usual mozzarella:

Provolone

Provolone is a zesty cheese that can be used in pepperoni rolls. It melts well and is a good option for pizza rolls.

Smoked gouda

Smoked gouda is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including pizza. It has a strong, savoury flavour that would work well in pizza rolls.

Parmesan

Parmesan is a hard cheese that can be grated and sprinkled on top of pizza rolls, or used as a dip. It has a strong, salty flavour that would add a punch to pizza rolls.

Ricotta

Ricotta is a mild, creamy cheese that holds its shape when heated, making it perfect for dolloping on top of pizza. It is versatile and pairs well with a range of Italian ingredients, including garlic, herbs, tomatoes and olive oil.

Goat cheese

Goat cheese has a tangy flavour that pairs well with sweet caramelised onions. It softens when heated but does not melt completely, giving a creamy texture. It is also a healthier option, being lower in fat and calories than cow's milk cheese.

Pizza rolls are a frozen snack

Pizza rolls consist of bite-sized, breaded pizza pockets with an interior of diced pepperoni, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. The cheese is usually mozzarella, but other types such as provolone, cheddar, or parmesan can also be used. The dough can be homemade or store-bought, and the rolls can be baked or fried to achieve the desired crispness.

Pizza rolls are a fun and tasty snack that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. They are easy to prepare and can be paired with various dips or sauces. The convenience of having them frozen and ready to heat up at any time makes them a popular choice for busy individuals and families.

When preparing pizza rolls, it is important to ensure that the dough is rolled out thinly and evenly. This helps create a consistent texture and prevents the rolls from falling apart during baking. Additionally, it is recommended to use a serrated knife to cut the dough into even slices.

Pizza rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven when needed. They are a versatile snack that can be customized with different toppings and cheeses to suit individual preferences. Whether enjoyed as a quick bite or served at a party, pizza rolls are a delicious treat for pizza lovers of all ages.

Homemade pizza rolls can be reheated

Pizza rolls are a popular snack, especially for kids, and can be made at home or bought frozen. They are usually made with pizza dough, marinara sauce, herbs, and mozzarella cheese, and can be reheated in the oven, air fryer, or microwave.

If you're reheating homemade pizza rolls, it's best to use the oven to retain their flavour and texture. Preheat your oven to 400° F / 205° C and place your pizza rolls on a parchment-lined tray. Heat them for about five minutes, or until they're warmed through. You can also cut them into thirds and arrange them on a platter for a great appetizer.

If you're short on time, you can use a microwave, but this may result in sogginess. To avoid this, use a non-stick skillet on the stove over medium-low heat. Stir the rolls so they don't brown too much on one side. You can also try reheating them on a cooling rack in the oven at 250° F for 20 minutes, then turn up the heat to 400° F for the final five minutes.

Pizza rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to a month.

Frequently asked questions