Table of Contents

Topsy Turvy Pizza Twists: A Deli Delight Recreated

The memory still makes me smile: the hustle and bustle of the deli, the fragrant aromas swirling in the air, and the camaraderie of my coworkers. It wasn’t exactly haute cuisine, but there was a certain magic to discovering hidden gems amongst the prepared foods. One day, while organizing recipe cards, I stumbled upon this little treasure: Topsy Turvy Pizza Twists. They were an instant hit at our next staff gathering, devoured in minutes. Years later, the taste of those savory, cheesy swirls still brings me back to that lively deli counter and the joy of sharing good food.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
Total Time: 32-34 minutes
Servings: 28 twists
Yield: About 28 twists
Dietary Type: Not specified (Can be adapted for vegetarian by omitting pepperoni)

Ingredients

1/4 lb pepperoni, finely chopped
2 ounces provolone cheese, finely chopped
1/4 cup sliced ripe olives
3 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 (13 7/8 ounce) cans refrigerated pizza dough
1 2/3 cups pizza sauce, heated

Equipment Needed

Medium bowl
Lightly floured surface
Rolling pin
Knife or pizza cutter
Large cookie sheet
Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for ensuring the twists bake evenly and achieve a golden-brown crust.
In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the finely chopped pepperoni, provolone cheese, sliced ripe olives, shredded Parmesan cheese, finely chopped green onions, oregano leaves, and garlic powder. Mixing these ingredients well ensures each twist is packed with flavor. Set this mixture aside.
On a lightly floured surface, roll one piece of refrigerated pizza dough into a 15×9 inch rectangle. The flour prevents the dough from sticking, making it easier to handle and roll.
Spread the pepperoni mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, pressing lightly to help it adhere. A gentle press will keep the filling from spilling out during the twisting process.
Roll the remaining piece of pizza dough into another 15×9 inch rectangle. Carefully place this second layer of dough over the filling-covered layer.
Press lightly to compact the filling between the two layers of dough. This step is important for creating a cohesive filling and preventing air pockets.
Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the layered dough crosswise in half. This simplifies the next step of creating individual twists.
Now, cut each half lengthwise into 1-inch pieces, resulting in a total of approximately 28 strips. Precise cuts will ensure uniform twists that bake evenly.
Carefully twist each strip 6 to 7 times to form tight spirals. Pinch the ends to seal the filling inside. The more twists, the more visually appealing the end result, but ensure the ends are well-sealed to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
Place the twisted strips on a large cookie sheet that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Ensure there’s enough space between each twist to allow for even baking and browning.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as ovens can vary. The twists should be firm to the touch and have a nicely browned exterior.
Serve the Topsy Turvy Pizza Twists warm with the heated pizza sauce for dipping.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Finely chopping the ingredients is key: This ensures they distribute evenly within the twists and don’t create overly bulky pockets.
Don’t over-twist: While a good twist looks great, too many twists can squeeze out the filling. Aim for a balance between aesthetics and functionality.
Make ahead: Prepare the filling mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day you plan to bake the twists.
Prevent sticking: If your dough is particularly sticky, use parchment paper instead of directly spraying the cookie sheet.
Crispier crust: For an extra crispy crust, brush the twists with a little melted butter or olive oil before baking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Topsy Turvy Pizza Twists immediately after baking for the best flavor and texture. The warm, cheesy filling and crispy crust are irresistible! Arrange them artfully on a platter with a bowl of warmed pizza sauce for dipping.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the twists in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag.

To reheat, bake the twists in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, but the crust may become softer.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	~40 kcal	~2%
Total Fat	~3g	~4%
Saturated Fat	~1g	~5%
Cholesterol	~7mg	~2%
Sodium	~129mg	~5%
Total Carbohydrate	~2g	~1%
Dietary Fiber	~0g	~1%
Sugars	~0g	~0%
Protein	~2g	~3%

Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Omit the pepperoni and substitute with finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
Spicy Twists: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture for a kick of heat.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic powder or add minced garlic to the filling.
Italian Herb Blend: Use an Italian herb blend instead of just oregano for a more complex flavor profile.
Pizza Dough Alternatives: Try using puff pastry for a flakier, richer twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of refrigerated dough?
A: Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough will add an even more authentic flavor to these twists. Just be sure to roll it out thinly.

Q: What if I don’t have provolone cheese?
A: Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any good melting cheese can be substituted for provolone.

Q: Can these be made ahead of time and frozen?
A: Yes, they freeze very well! Bake them completely, let them cool, and then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.

Q: The filling is oozing out during baking. What am I doing wrong?
A: Make sure you’re pinching the ends of the twists securely. Also, avoid overfilling the twists.

Q: Can I use a different sauce for dipping?
A: Of course! Ranch dressing, pesto, or even a simple garlic aioli would be delicious with these twists.

Final Thoughts

These Topsy Turvy Pizza Twists are more than just a recipe; they’re a delicious reminder of simpler times and the joy of sharing good food with good people. I encourage you to give them a try and create your own memories around them. Whether you serve them as an appetizer at your next party or enjoy them as a quick and easy snack, I hope they bring a smile to your face as they do to mine. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and flavors to make them your own. And please, let me know what you think – I’d love to hear about your Topsy Turvy Pizza Twist adventures!

Topsy Turvy Pizza Twists Recipe