Pizza on a Stick

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza on a stick is the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and fun. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a new snack idea, or trying to get creative with dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. They’re easy to customize with your favorite pizza toppings, and the best part? You can dip them in marinara sauce or ranch dressing for extra flavor. These pizza sticks bring the joy of pizza without the mess of slicing and serving, making them ideal for grab-and-go eating at any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 batch pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (or any other pizza toppings like sausage, olives, or mushrooms)

• 1/4 cup bell pepper, chopped (optional)

• 1/4 cup red onion, chopped (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Skewers (wooden or metal)

For dipping:

• Marinara sauce (for dipping)

• Ranch dressing (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the pizza dough: If using store-bought pizza dough, follow the package instructions for thawing or rolling out. If using homemade dough, roll it out to about 1/4-inch thick.

2. Assemble the pizza on a stick: Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide and 4-5 inches long. Thread each strip onto a skewer, weaving the dough onto the stick like a zigzag pattern, ensuring there’s space in between for toppings. Alternate between the dough and cheese, pepperoni, and any additional toppings like bell peppers or onions as you assemble.

3. Bake the pizza sticks: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled pizza sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the pizza dough with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Serve: Once baked, remove the pizza sticks from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6-8 pizza sticks, depending on how thick you cut the dough. The prep time is around 15 minutes, and the baking time is 10-12 minutes, so you can have these pizza sticks ready in under 30 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Pizza on a Stick: Use vegetables like mushrooms, olives, onions, and bell peppers as toppings instead of meat.

• Spicy Pizza on a Stick: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or spicy sausage for an extra kick.

• Stuffed Crust Pizza on a Stick: Roll the dough around the cheese and toppings to create a stuffed crust effect.

• Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pizza sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the pizza sticks on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, although the crust may not be as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen pizza dough?

Yes, you can use frozen pizza dough. Just make sure to thaw it completely before using it in this recipe.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pizza sticks ahead of time, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Just bake them right before serving.

Can I make these pizza sticks on the grill?

Yes, you can grill the pizza sticks over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the dough is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted. Just be sure to watch them carefully to prevent burning.

What other toppings can I use?

You can use any pizza toppings you like, such as sausage, bacon, chicken, or even pineapple. The possibilities are endless!

Can I use gluten-free pizza dough?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pizza dough if you or your guests have dietary restrictions. Just make sure to choose a dough that holds up well on skewers.

Can I serve these with a dipping sauce?

Yes! Pizza sticks are perfect for dipping in marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a creamy blue cheese dressing.

How can I make these healthier?

For a healthier version, use whole-wheat pizza dough, lean turkey pepperoni, and load up on vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

How do I keep the pizza on a stick from falling apart?

Be sure to weave the dough tightly onto the skewer and alternate between the dough and toppings to provide structure. Also, ensure the dough is not too thin so it holds its shape during baking.

Can I freeze these pizza sticks?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled pizza sticks. Once they’re fully assembled but uncooked, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or parmesan. Just ensure the cheese melts well.

Conclusion

Pizza on a stick is the ultimate fun and portable twist on traditional pizza. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as a snack, or for a fun family dinner, these pizza skewers are a hit. Easy to customize, quick to make, and full of delicious flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. With the perfect combination of crispy dough, melty cheese, and flavorful toppings, these pizza sticks are sure to bring joy to any occasion!