Pepperoni Pizza Bread is a quick and easy recipe that combines all the flavors of your favorite pepperoni pizza in a soft, cheesy bread. Perfect for parties, game day, or a family snack, this pizza bread is loaded with pepperoni, gooey cheese, and Italian herbs, all wrapped in a golden-brown crust. It’s easy to customize with your favorite pizza toppings, making it a hit with everyone!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf refrigerated pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza or marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced black olives
- Sliced mushrooms
- Cooked sausage
- Bell peppers
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking sheet, or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pizza Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 10×12 inches in size. If using store-bought dough, follow the package instructions for handling and stretching the dough.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
- Spread a thin layer of pizza or marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Layer the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Add any optional toppings at this stage.
Step 4: Roll Up the Dough
- Starting from one of the shorter ends of the dough, carefully roll it up into a log, tucking in the sides as you go to seal in the fillings.
- Pinch the seams of the dough to close it securely and place the roll seam-side down in the prepared loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
Step 5: Brush with Butter and Bake
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder. Brush the top of the pizza bread with the garlic butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Broil (Optional)
- If you want an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the bread in the last 5 minutes of baking.
- For a crispier, bubbly cheese crust, turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
- Let the pizza bread cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve with extra pizza or marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Cook Notes
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella is classic for pizza, you can use a mix of cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack for more flavor.
- Dough: Store-bought pizza dough makes this recipe quick, but you can also use homemade dough if you prefer.
- Rolling Tip: Make sure not to overfill the pizza bread to avoid the dough from splitting when rolling or baking.
Variations
- Veggie Pizza Bread: Add sliced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
- Meat Lovers Pizza Bread: Add cooked sausage, ham, or bacon along with the pepperoni for a meaty twist.
- Supreme Pizza Bread: Load up with a variety of toppings like olives, onions, sausage, and bell peppers for a supreme-style pizza bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this pizza bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pizza bread up to 1 day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze pizza bread?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked or baked pizza bread. To freeze unbaked, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing baked pizza bread, let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What can I serve with pizza bread?
Pizza bread is perfect with extra marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal.
Pepperoni Pizza Bread is a fun and delicious twist on classic pizza, perfect for parties, snacks, or casual dinners. With its golden crust, melty cheese, and flavorful pepperoni, this easy-to-make dish is sure to be a hit with everyone. Customize it with your favorite pizza toppings and enjoy this cheesy, flavorful bread anytime!
