Name: Pizza Monkey Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 32 ounces refrigerated canned biscuits (cut into quarters); 6 ounces pepperoni (sliced); 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded); 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated); 1/3 cup butter (melted); 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt; Red pepper flakes ((optional, for some heat)); Fresh parsley ((for garnish)); Marinara sauce ((for dipping))

Are you ready to elevate your party snacks or family dinners to a whole new level? Enter Pizza Monkey Bread, the ultimate shareable appetizer that marries the beloved flavors of pizza with the fun pull-apart style of monkey bread. This dish is perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply satisfying those pizza cravings in a new and exciting way. With a delightful combination of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details and create something truly scrumptious!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Pizza Monkey Bread stands out not just for its delicious taste but also for its ease of preparation. Using convenient refrigerated canned biscuits as the base means you can whip it up in no time, even on busy weeknights. The combination of melted butter, Italian seasoning, and a generous amount of cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, the fun pull-apart style makes it an interactive dish that everyone will love. Who wouldn’t want to dig into a warm, cheesy, and pepperoni-filled masterpiece?

Ingredient Checklist

To make this delightful Pizza Monkey Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

32 ounces refrigerated canned biscuits, cut into quarters
6 ounces pepperoni, sliced
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1/3 cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
Red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have these kitchen essentials:

Large mixing bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Bundt pan: The perfect shape for your monkey bread.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in cooking!
Spatula or wooden spoon: To mix everything together efficiently.
Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot pans.

From Start to Finish: Pizza Monkey Bread

Let’s walk through the process of making this Pizza Monkey Bread step by step.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Pizza Monkey Bread bakes evenly and gets that golden-brown crust we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Dough

In a large mixing bowl, take the refrigerated canned biscuits and cut them into quarters. This should yield bite-sized pieces perfect for pulling apart.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese and Pepperoni

Add the sliced pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, and grated parmesan cheese to the biscuit pieces. Give everything a gentle toss to combine the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Create the Flavor Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and garlic salt. If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes to this mixture.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the butter mixture over the biscuit and cheese mixture. Stir until all the biscuit pieces are well coated in the buttery goodness and seasonings.

Step 6: Transfer to Bundt Pan

Carefully transfer the mixture into a greased bundt pan. Make sure to spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the biscuits are cooked through.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the bundt pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make some adjustments to suit your dietary needs or preferences, consider these options:

Whole wheat biscuits: For a healthier base, opt for whole wheat refrigerated biscuits.
Vegetarian pepperoni: Substitute regular pepperoni with a plant-based alternative.
Low-fat cheese: Use reduced-fat mozzarella and parmesan to cut back on calories.
Additional veggies: Incorporate chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Flavor Logic

The beauty of Pizza Monkey Bread lies in its versatility. The classic combination of pepperoni and mozzarella is always a crowd-pleaser, but you can easily switch things up. Here are some flavor combinations to consider:

Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage or ham along with the pepperoni for a heartier option.
Veggie Delight: Toss in some diced onions, bell peppers, or olives for a fresh twist.
Pesto Love: Drizzle some pesto over the biscuits before baking for an aromatic herb flavor.
Cheesy Garlic: Mix in some ricotta or cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Want to get a head start on your Pizza Monkey Bread? Here’s how you can prepare it ahead of time:

You can assemble the monkey bread the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just follow the steps up until you place it in the oven. Cover the bundt pan tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This ensures even cooking and a delightful rise.

If you have leftovers (although they’re unlikely), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Your Top Questions

Can I use frozen biscuits for this recipe?

While it’s best to use refrigerated canned biscuits for the best texture and flavor, you can use thawed frozen biscuits. Just make sure they are cut into quarters before mixing.

What can I substitute for pepperoni?

If you’re not a fan of pepperoni, try diced cooked chicken, turkey pepperoni, or a variety of vegetables. The recipe is highly adaptable!

How do I know when my Pizza Monkey Bread is done?

Look for a golden brown color on top and ensure that the biscuit pieces in the center are fully cooked. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free refrigerated biscuits and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free, including the marinara sauce for dipping.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed making this Pizza Monkey Bread, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Snap a photo of your delicious creation and post it on social media with your favorite hashtags. Everyone will want to know how you made this crowd-pleasing dish, and trust me, they’ll be grateful you did!

This Pizza Monkey Bread is sure to become a staple in your home. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for sharing. So gather your loved ones around, pull apart those cheesy bites, and enjoy every delicious moment together. Happy baking!