This Pepperoni Pizza Bread is a fun and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of classic pepperoni pizza in a pull-apart loaf. With layers of soft bread, gooey cheese, and savory pepperoni, this pizza bread is perfect for a quick dinner, game day snack, or party appetizer. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of Italian or French bread
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Using a serrated knife, cut the loaf of bread in a crosshatch pattern, making sure not to cut all the way through the bottom. Leave about 1 inch uncut at the base to keep the loaf intact.
- Place the prepared loaf on the lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
- Gently separate the bread sections and spread the pizza sauce in between the cuts.
- Stuff shredded mozzarella cheese and sliced pepperoni into the gaps between the bread pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and melted butter.
- Drizzle the butter mixture over the bread, making sure it seeps into the gaps.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the bread with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish the pepperoni pizza bread with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve warm, pulling apart the pieces to enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Bread Choice: Use a sturdy loaf like Italian or French bread to ensure it holds up to the toppings without becoming soggy.
- Even Cuts: Make sure to cut the bread evenly so that each piece is easy to pull apart and contains a good amount of cheese and pepperoni.
- Pizza Sauce: You can use store-bought pizza sauce or make your own with tomato sauce, garlic, and Italian herbs.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pepperoni with vegetables like sliced bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes between the bread layers for some heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Use a combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone cheese for a super cheesy version.
- Garlic Butter Pizza Bread: For an extra garlic flavor, mix minced garlic with the melted butter before drizzling over the bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Pizza Bread Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the pizza bread up to a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. When ready to serve, bake it according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Pepperoni Pizza Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked pizza bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
4. What Can I Serve with Pepperoni Pizza Bread?
This pizza bread is great on its own but also pairs well with marinara sauce for dipping, a simple green salad, or even a bowl of soup for a more complete meal.
Pepperoni Pizza Bread is a fun and easy way to enjoy all the delicious flavors of pizza in a pull-apart loaf. With melty cheese, savory pepperoni, and plenty of pizza sauce, this bread is perfect for any occasion—from game nights to casual dinners. It’s sure to become a favorite with friends and family alike. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the cheesy, pepperoni goodness in every bite!
