Pepperoni Bread
There’s something undeniably comforting about homemade bread, especially when it’s filled with gooey cheese and savory pepperoni. Pepperoni bread is the ultimate snack or appetizer that’s perfect for game day, a cozy night in, or even as a delicious addition to your lunchbox. This recipe takes a simple frozen bread dough and transforms it into a flavor-packed delight that’ll have everyone begging for seconds.
Why Pepperoni Bread is Worth Your Time
Pepperoni bread is not just a treat; it’s an experience. The warm, pillowy bread envelops a hearty filling of pepperoni, mozzarella, and a blend of spices that dance on your palate. It’s easy to make, especially using frozen dough, and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients you might have lying around. Whether you serve it with marinara sauce for dipping or enjoy it straight out of the oven, pepperoni bread is a crowd-pleaser that will leave a lasting impression.
What You’ll Gather
- 1 pound loaf frozen bread dough, thawed according to package directions (I used and like Rhodes brand)
- 3 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pizza seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 ounces sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Hardware & Gadgets
- Baking Sheet – A standard baking sheet will work perfectly for this recipe.
- Parchment Paper – Helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Mixing Bowl – For combining the seasonings and melted butter.
- Rolling Pin – To roll out the dough evenly.
Method: Pepperoni Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by thawing your frozen bread dough according to the package instructions. This usually takes a few hours, so plan ahead! Once thawed, gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles.
Step 2: Roll It Out
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches in size. You want it thin enough to fill but thick enough to hold everything inside.
Step 3: Add the Flavor
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, pizza seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush this mixture generously over the rolled-out dough, ensuring even coverage.
Step 4: Layer the Goodies
Evenly distribute the sliced pepperoni over the buttered dough, followed by the shredded mozzarella and the grated parmesan. Feel free to add more cheese if you love that melty goodness!
Step 5: Roll It Up
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough up into a log. Make sure to keep it tight but not so tight that the filling spills out. Pinch the ends to seal tightly.
Step 6: Shape and Slice
Place the rolled dough seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. If desired, you can shape it into a curve or leave it straight. Using a sharp knife, make a few diagonal slashes on top for a decorative touch.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake your pepperoni bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. You can brush it with additional melted butter right after it comes out of the oven for extra flavor.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into pieces. Serve warm, preferably with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, pepperoni-filled bite!
Seasonal Twists
- Spicy Pepperoni – Use spicy pepperoni or add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Veggie Delight – Add some chopped bell peppers or onions for a veggie twist.
- Cheesy Garlic – Mix in some garlic cheese spread into the filling for a more intense flavor.
- Herbed Bread – Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the dough for added aroma.
Insider Tips
- Thawing Time – Thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
- Freezing – You can freeze the baked bread for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven before serving.
- Dipping Sauces – Try serving with different dipping sauces like ranch, hot mustard, or a spicy aioli for variety.
Save It for Later
If you find yourself loving this pepperoni bread as much as I do, consider making a double batch. The dough freezes beautifully, and you can always have a quick snack or appetizer on hand. Just remember to slice them before freezing for easy reheating.
Reader Questions
Can I use homemade bread dough instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade bread recipe, feel free to use it instead of frozen dough. Just ensure that it’s well-proofed before rolling out.
What if I don’t have pizza seasoning?
You can easily make your own by combining dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This blend will give you that classic pizza flavor.
Can I add other fillings?
Yes! You can customize your pepperoni bread by adding ingredients like cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or even spinach for added nutrition.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The bread should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you’re unsure, use a food thermometer; it should read at least 190°F (88°C) when fully cooked.
Bring It Home
Pepperoni bread is a delightful creation that combines the warmth of freshly baked bread with the flavorful essence of pizza. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward method, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in this cheesy, pepperoni-filled goodness. Perfect for sharing, or not—no judgment here!
Pepperoni Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by thawing your frozen bread dough according to the package instructions. This usually takes a few hours, so plan ahead! Once thawed, gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 12x8 inches in size. You want it thin enough to fill but thick enough to hold everything inside.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, pizza seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush this mixture generously over the rolled-out dough, ensuring even coverage.
- Evenly distribute the sliced pepperoni over the buttered dough, followed by the shredded mozzarella and the grated parmesan. Feel free to add more cheese if you love that melty goodness!
- Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough up into a log. Make sure to keep it tight but not so tight that the filling spills out. Pinch the ends to seal tightly.
- Place the rolled dough seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. If desired, you can shape it into a curve or leave it straight. Using a sharp knife, make a few diagonal slashes on top for a decorative touch.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake your pepperoni bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. You can brush it with additional melted butter right after it comes out of the oven for extra flavor.
- Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into pieces. Serve warm, preferably with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, pepperoni-filled bite!
Notes
- Thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
- You can freeze the baked bread for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven before serving.
