If you’re craving pizza but want something quick and easy to make, this Pepperoni Pizza Bread is the perfect solution. Loaded with cheese, pepperoni, and your favorite pizza toppings, all wrapped in soft, golden bread, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. It’s great as an appetizer, a snack, or even a fun twist on pizza night!
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread (unsliced)
- 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (or more, depending on preference)
- 1/4 cup black olives (sliced, optional)
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper (diced, optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted, for brushing)
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Slice the French or Italian loaf in half lengthwise, as if making a sandwich, and place both halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush the cut sides of the bread with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Cheese
- Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce evenly over both halves of the bread.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese. You can add as many or as few as you like.
- Add any other desired toppings, such as black olives, diced green bell pepper, or even mushrooms.
- Sprinkle a little more Italian seasoning on top of the toppings if desired.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza Bread
- Place the pizza bread in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- For extra crispness, you can broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Once baked, remove the pizza bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
- Slice the bread into strips or squares and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
- Serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping or sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Cook Notes
- Choose Your Bread: French or Italian bread works best for this recipe because it’s soft inside and crisp on the outside. You can also use a baguette for a smaller version.
- Extra Crispy: For a crispier crust, bake the bread for a few minutes before adding the toppings, then proceed with the recipe.
- Custom Toppings: Feel free to customize this pizza bread with your favorite toppings like sausage, mushrooms, onions, or even pineapple.
Variations
- Cheesy Garlic Pizza Bread: Skip the pepperoni and sauce, and load the bread with garlic butter and extra cheese for a cheesy garlic bread version.
- Vegetarian Pizza Bread: Use a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a meatless version.
- Spicy Pizza Bread: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce over the toppings for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes, you can use ciabatta bread, sandwich rolls, or even flatbread. Just adjust the baking time as different breads may crisp up faster.
Can I make this pizza bread ahead of time?
You can prepare the bread up to the point of adding the toppings and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Can I freeze pizza bread?
Yes! You can assemble the pizza bread, freeze it on a baking sheet until firm, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, remove the wrapping and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How long will leftover pizza bread last?
Store leftover pizza bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or toaster oven for best results.
Can I use fresh dough instead of bread?
Yes! You can use pizza dough instead of a loaf of bread. Simply roll out the dough, top it with sauce and toppings, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
This Pepperoni Pizza Bread is an easy, fun, and delicious way to satisfy your pizza cravings without the fuss of making dough from scratch. With a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful pepperoni, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, pizza bread is a versatile recipe that you can customize to your liking. Enjoy!
