Save Fun, bite-sized mini pizzas shaped like basketballs—perfect for game day snacks or parties. These cheesy, customizable treats are easy to make and guaranteed to score big with kids and adults alike.
This recipe has been a hit at every game day party I've hosted, always disappearing fast thanks to the cheesy, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
- Dough: 1 lb (450 g) pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
- Sauce & Cheese: 1/2 cup (120 ml) pizza sauce, 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings & Decoration: 24 slices pepperoni (optional, for filling), 1/4 cup (25 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons cornmeal (for dusting), 2 tablespoons black olives, thinly sliced (for basketball lines), 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for basketball color)
Instructions
- Step 1 Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly dust with cornmeal.
- Step 2 Prepare dough:
- Divide pizza dough into 24 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten gently into a 2-inch (5 cm) round.
- Step 3 Add fillings:
- Place a small spoonful of pizza sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese in the center of each round. Add a pepperoni slice, if desired.
- Step 4 Seal edges:
- Pinch edges to seal and roll gently back into a ball. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5 Brush:
- Brush each ball lightly with olive oil. For a deeper basketball color, brush with a bit of tomato paste mixed with olive oil.
- Step 6 Add toppings:
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Step 7 Bake:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is bubbling.
- Step 8 Cool and decorate:
- Let cool for 2 minutes. Use thin strips of black olive to create basketball lines on each bite.
- Step 9 Serve:
- Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Save We always have a blast making these together as a family while watching the game.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, rolling pin, pastry brush, sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), dairy (cheese), possible soy (pizza sauce). May contain eggs (depending on dough), processed meats (pepperoni). Always check ingredient labels if allergens are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 70, Total Fat: 3.2 g, Carbohydrates: 8 g, Protein: 2.5 g
Save These bites are perfect when served warm and fresh, making any occasion special.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the regular dough with a gluten-free pizza dough alternative, ensuring the texture remains soft and chewy.
- → How do I create the basketball lines on the bites?
Use thinly sliced black olives and carefully place them on top after baking to mimic basketball line patterns.
- → What fillings can I use besides pepperoni?
Try cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers for varied flavors and textures.
- → What is the best way to serve these bites?
Serve warm with extra sauce for dipping alongside cold beverages like sparkling water or a crisp lager.
- → Can kids help make these bites?
Absolutely! Kids can help shape the dough balls and decorate the basketball lines for an engaging activity.