Pepperoni Pull-Apart Bread is the ultimate appetizer for any gathering. This easy-to-make dish features a loaf of Italian bread stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni slices, all brushed with a flavorful mixture of melted butter, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. The result is a cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy pull-apart bread that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, this pull-apart bread is sure to be a hit.
Pepperoni Pull-Apart Bread is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This recipe starts with a loaf of Italian bread, which is sliced into cubes but not cut all the way through, allowing the bread to stay intact. The bread is then filled with slices of pepperoni and shredded mozzarella cheese, creating a gooey, cheesy filling that melts perfectly in the oven. To add even more flavor, the bread is brushed with a mixture of melted butter, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick.
INGREDIENTS
- Italian bread (1 lb): 1 loaf, forms the base of the pull-apart bread.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, adds gooeyness and richness to the bread.
- Pepperoni slices: 1 cup, provides a savory, slightly spicy flavor.
- Melted butter: 1/4 cup, used to brush the bread for extra flavor and to help it crisp up.
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp, adds a savory garlic flavor.
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp, adds an earthy, Italian herb flavor.
- Dried basil: 1/2 tsp, complements the oregano with a sweet, herbal note.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): 1/2 tsp, adds a bit of heat to the bread.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2:
- Slice the loaf of Italian bread into cubes, but do not cut all the way through.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the sliced bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 4:
- Gently pull apart the slices of bread and tuck in pieces of pepperoni and mozzarella cheese.
- Step 5:
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
- Step 6:
- Brush the butter mixture generously over the bread, making sure to get it between the slices.
- Step 7:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
- Step 8:
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this bread warm, right out of the oven, for the best experience. It’s perfect as an appetizer or snack at parties and gatherings.
- To store leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in foil and refrigerate. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Helpful Notes
- If you want to add more flavor, consider sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese over the bread before baking. It adds a nice, salty finish.
- You can easily customize this recipe by adding other ingredients such as sliced olives, chopped bell peppers, or even jalapeños for an extra kick.
- For a vegetarian version, simply omit the pepperoni and add more cheese or vegetables of your choice.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay recommends using a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a more complex flavor in your pull-apart bread.
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests brushing the bread with a garlic-infused olive oil for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Chef Ree Drummond advises serving this bread with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, which complements the pepperoni and cheese perfectly.
Why Pepperoni Pull-Apart Bread is the Ultimate Party Snack
Pepperoni Pull-Apart Bread is a show-stopping appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any party. The combination of melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and Italian herbs makes it an irresistible snack that everyone will love. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your tastes, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re serving it for a game day gathering or as a fun snack for family movie night, this pull-apart bread is sure to disappear quickly!
Customizing Your Pull-Apart Bread
One of the best things about this pull-apart bread recipe is how easily it can be customized. You can experiment with different types of cheese, add in your favorite pizza toppings, or even sprinkle some fresh herbs over the top before serving. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a pull-apart bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic pepperoni and mozzarella combination or try something new, you’re guaranteed a delicious, crowd-pleasing result.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of bread such as a French baguette or sourdough. Just make sure the loaf is sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
Can I make this pull-apart bread ahead of time?
You can prepare the bread with the cheese and pepperoni ahead of time, but it’s best to bake it just before serving for the freshest taste and texture. If you need to make it ahead, you can bake it and then reheat it in the oven before serving.
How can I make this pull-apart bread vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the pepperoni and add more cheese or vegetables like olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
What dipping sauces go well with this bread?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice that pairs perfectly with the pepperoni and cheese. You could also serve it with ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a different flavor twist.
How do I keep the bread from becoming soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure the bread is baked until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden brown. Using a sturdy bread like Italian or French bread also helps maintain a good texture.
Summary
This Pepperoni Pull-Apart Bread is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. The combination of melted mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and Italian herbs makes this bread incredibly flavorful and crave-worthy. Simply slice the bread, stuff it with cheese and pepperoni, and bake until golden and bubbly. The result is a savory, cheesy pull-apart bread that’s perfect for parties, game days, or any casual get-together. Serve it warm and watch it disappear!