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tuna pizza rolls

Irresistible Homemade Tuna Pizza Rolls – Soft, Cheesy & Packed with Flavor

These tuna pizza rolls are one of my absolute go-to appetizers whenever I’m hosting guests.
They’re not just delicious—they’re downright irresistible! And let me tell you, my kids are obsessed. Every time I ask, “Do you want pizza or pizza rolls?” they shout in unison: “Pizza rolls!”
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course appetizer
Servings 18 rolls
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons powdered milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 4 to 5 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Filling:

  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 450 g about 1 lb fresh tomatoes, diced
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • A pinch of dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • A dash of black pepper
  • 1 can of tuna drained
  • A handful of pitted olives sliced
  • A handful of shredded cheese

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

  • In a large bowl, combine all the dry dough ingredients.
  • Gradually add lukewarm water, little by little, until you get a soft, smooth, and pliable dough.
  • Knead the dough for a few minutes until elastic and well mixed.
  • Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl.
  • Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place until it doubles in size (about 1 to 1.5 hours).

Prepare the Tuna Filling:

  • Open the can of tuna and pour its oil into a skillet.
  • Finely chop the onion and sauté it in the tuna oil until translucent and fragrant.
  • Add diced tomatoes and cook until they soften and reduce.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like (thyme or oregano work well).
  • Once cooked, let the filling cool completely before using.

Shape the Rolls:

  • Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air.
  • Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about ½ cm thick.
  • Spread the onion and tomato filling evenly across the dough.
  • Sprinkle chunks of tuna and sliced olives on top.
  • Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other, like a log.
  • Brush the edge of the dough with a little beaten egg to seal it well.
  • Cut the log into slices about 2 cm thick. Don’t worry if some filling falls out—just press it back gently.
  • Place the slices cut-side up on a greased baking tray.
  • Let the rolls rest for 10–15 minutes to puff up slightly.

Bake and Enjoy:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with egg yolk for a shiny, golden finish.
  • Bake in the hot oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Let cool slightly, then enjoy these warm, cheesy, savory delights!