This fun pizza bread is like a pizza in loaf form! Stuffed with gooey cheese and your favorite toppings, it’s perfect for a snack or an easy dinner.
Honestly, who can resist warm, cheesy goodness? I love pulling apart slices to share. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just roll, fill, bake, and enjoy! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Sandwich Bread: Thick-cut, unsliced bread is ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat or multigrain bread, which gives it a nice nutty flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella provides great stretch, but you can also use a blend of cheeses like cheddar or provolone. For a dairy-free version, try vegan mozzarella cheese which melts nicely!
Pepperoni: Mini or regular pepperoni works wonderfully. If you prefer something different, feel free to substitute with cooked sausage, diced veggies, or even turkey pepperoni if you want a leaner option.
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought pizza sauce is convenient, but homemade marinara works great too! If you like a bit of kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to your sauce.
How Do I Hollow Out the Bread Without It Falling Apart?
Hollowing out the bread can feel tricky, but with a few simple steps, it’s easy!
- Use a serrated knife for smooth cutting. Start at the top and slice off the crust, then carefully cut around the inside edges, using your fingers to gently pull the bread away as you go.
- Leave about a 1/2 inch border to keep it sturdy. Avoid cutting too deep to prevent the bottom from breaking.
- Don’t worry about being perfect; it will still taste amazing—even if it’s a bit rustic!
With these tips and substitutions, you’ll be ready to create a delicious pizza bread that everyone will love.
Pizza Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 1 loaf white sandwich bread (thick-cut, unsliced)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (mini or regular sized)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Optional: garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
- Fresh parsley or Italian seasoning for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pizza bread takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Super quick for a delicious snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important to ensure your pizza bread cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color!
2. Prepare the Bread:
Cut off the top crust of your loaf, and hollow out the center carefully, leaving about a 1/2 inch thick shell around the edges. This part is like making a little cozy home for your delicious pizza goodies!
3. Add Olive Oil and Sauce:
Brush the inside of the hollowed-out bread with olive oil. Then spread pizza sauce evenly over the exposed surface inside. This will add moisture and flavor!
4. Layer the Cheese:
Generously layer your shredded mozzarella cheese inside the hollowed bread. The more cheese, the better! You want that gooey, melty goodness.
5. Top with Pepperoni:
Scatter the pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese layer. This is where you can get creative—feel free to add other toppings like bell peppers or mushrooms!
6. Season it Up:
Sprinkle the dried oregano, basil, and optional garlic powder over the top for that classic pizza flavor.
7. Get Ready to Bake:
Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with easy clean-up afterward!
8. Bake:
Put the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top edges of the bread are toasted and golden.
9. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, cut it into thick slices.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or Italian seasoning if desired, then serve warm. Get ready to enjoy this delicious pizza-flavored bread treat with friends and family!
This pizza bread is a fantastic way to enjoy all your favorite pizza flavors packed in a delicious, pull-apart format. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as an easy family meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bread adds a nutty flavor and will still hold up well for the pizza filling. Just make sure it’s thick-cut and unsliced for the best results.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
You can customize your pizza bread with various toppings! Consider adding cooked sausage, olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Just be mindful not to overload it to keep the bread from getting soggy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold or reheated in the microwave, but the oven will help maintain the crispy texture.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bread by hollowing it out and adding the sauce and toppings up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, just bake it as directed—perfect for parties or quick meals!
