These Sourdough Pizza Bombs are bite-sized goodies filled with cheesy, saucy goodness! Soft and fluffy on the outside, they pack a tasty punch inside.
It’s hard to resist these little wonders, especially when they come out of the oven, all warm and golden. Great for sharing or, you know, keeping them all for yourself! 😉
I love making these for movie night. Just pop them in the oven and enjoy a fun twist on pizza that everyone can snack on. Quick and seriously delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter: Active and bubbly starter is best for this recipe, as it helps the dough rise. If you don’t have sourdough, you can use store-bought pizza dough as a quick alternative.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but whole wheat flour can be a healthier option. Just note that it might change the texture slightly. You can also try a gluten-free blend if you’re avoiding gluten.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its melty goodness. If you’re looking for a bit more flavor, consider mixing in some provolone or cheddar. Vegan cheese is also a great substitute if you want dairy-free options.
Pepperoni: While classic, you can swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, diced veggies, or even cooked chicken for a different twist. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat altogether!
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil bring the pizza flavor. Fresh herbs can be used instead—just add more for that vibrant taste. If you don’t have any herbs, Italian seasoning will work too!
How Do You Knead Dough Smoothly?
Kneading is key to developing the gluten in the dough, ensuring it’s chewy and has the right texture. Start with a floured surface and follow these steps:
- Clear a clean, flat area to work on.
- Lightly flour your hands and the dough to prevent sticking.
- Press the dough with the heel of your hand, then fold it over itself.
- Turn it 90 degrees and repeat the process. Continue for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Don’t rush this step; a well-kneaded dough leads to the best results for your pizza bombs!
What’s the Best Way to Fill the Dough Balls?
Filling the dough can be tricky, but with the right technique, it’s straightforward! Here’s how to do it:
- Roll out each dough ball to create a 4-inch disc.
- Use a spoon to evenly distribute about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce in the center.
- Add your cheese and pepperoni on top of the sauce, ensuring the filling doesn’t touch the edges.
- Gather the dough edges up over the filling and pinch to seal tightly. This prevents leakage while baking.
Using less filling can also be beneficial, especially if you’re new to making stuffed dishes. Practice makes perfect!
How to Make Sourdough Pizza Bombs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp instant yeast (optional for faster rise)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup pepperoni slices (chopped or whole)
- ½ cup pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)
For Seasoning and Topping:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 30-40 minutes of active prep time. However, if you’re just using sourdough starter without instant yeast, you’ll need to plan for about 4-6 hours for the dough to rise. If using instant yeast, the rising time will be shorter, and you can enjoy your pizza bombs in about 1-2 hours total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, salt, sugar, olive oil, and instant yeast (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until it forms a rough dough. This mixture should look like a shaggy mass—don’t worry, it will come together as you knead!
2. Knead the Dough:
Sprinkle some flour on your countertop and turn the dough out onto this floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It should feel soft but not sticky. Once it’s done, place it in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise until it’s doubled in size. This can take about 4-6 hours if you’re not using instant yeast.
3. Preheat the Oven:
When the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pizza bombs will bake perfectly and develop that nice golden color.
4. Shape the Dough Balls:
Once the dough is ready, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions, and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc that measures about 4 inches in diameter. Now you’re ready to fill them!
5. Fill the Dough:
Take about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce and spoon it onto the center of each disc. Next, add 1-2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese and a few slices of pepperoni on top of the sauce. Be sure to leave some space at the edges so you can easily seal the bomb later.
6. Seal the Pizza Bombs:
Carefully gather the edges of the dough up over the filling and pinch them together to seal it tightly, forming a stuffed dough ball. Make sure there are no gaps, or the filling might leak out while baking.
7. Bake the Pizza Bombs:
Place the stuffed dough balls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of each ball with a beaten egg to give them a nice golden crust when baked. Then, sprinkle the oregano, basil, and Parmesan cheese evenly over each ball.
8. Bake and Enjoy:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pizza bombs are golden brown and puffed up. Once baked, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes.
9. Serve Warm:
Enjoy these warm and cheesy sourdough pizza bombs with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping. They’re sure to be a hit!
Enjoy deliciously cheesy and herby sourdough pizza bombs with gooey mozzarella oozing out!
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough Instead of Sourdough Starter?
Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought pizza dough for a quicker option! Just roll it out and follow the same filling and baking instructions. It will still result in delicious pizza bombs!
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza Bombs?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving for the best texture!
Can I Freeze Pizza Bombs for Later?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked pizza bombs. Just place the assembled and sealed dough balls on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
The filling options are endless! Try mixing in sautéed vegetables, different types of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack, or cooked sausage. Get creative with your favorite pizza toppings!
