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If you have ever wished you could combine the cheesy, savory goodness of pizza with the fun, pull-apart style of monkey bread, then you are going to adore this Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe. This dish turns classic pizza ingredients into a shareable, gooey, and irresistibly delicious treat that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or any get-together where you want to impress without fuss. Each bite bursts with melty mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and aromatic herbs, layered on soft, buttery dough that’s tough to resist. It’s the perfect way to take pizza night to a whole new level, and once you try this recipe, it may become your favorite go-to snack or meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe is carefully chosen to create the perfect harmony of flavor and texture. The simple yet essential components come together to deliver a dish that is cheesy, fragrant with herbs, and bursting with savory toppings, all wrapped in soft, buttery dough.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough or pizza dough (2 cans, 16 oz each): Provides the soft, fluffy base that pulls apart perfectly after baking.
- Mini pepperoni (1 cup): Adds a classic pepperoni flavor with just the right amount of spice and chew.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts beautifully, giving that gooey, stretchy texture we all crave in pizza.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp umami kick and nice contrast to the mozzarella’s creaminess.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses each bite with a traditional pizza herb aroma.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a warm, savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds without overwhelming the dish.
- Marinara sauce (1 cup): Perfect for dipping, providing a tangy, vibrant complement to the cheesy bread.
- Melted butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and helps create a golden, buttery crust.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Enhances moisture and adds a wholesome flavor touch.
- Fresh basil, chopped (1/4 cup, optional): A fresh, herbal garnish that brightens the entire dish.
How to Make Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s at the perfect temperature when your dough is ready. Grease a bundt pan or a 9×9-inch baking dish thoroughly with non-stick spray or butter – this helps the finished bread release easily and keeps the outer crust beautifully crisp and buttery.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough Pieces
If you’re using refrigerated biscuit dough, open the cans and cut each biscuit into quarters, turning those fluffy rounds into perfect bite-sized pieces. If you prefer pizza dough, simply cut it into small chunks of a similar size. This step ensures that every piece will bake evenly and be easy to share.
Step 3: Mix All the Flavorful Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the dough pieces with the mini pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This coating mixes a mouthwatering blend of cheese and herbs into every bite, making sure the flavors are beautifully distributed throughout the monkey bread.
Step 4: Layer the Dough in Your Pan
Transfer the cheesy, pepperoni-studded dough mixture into your prepared pan, layering it evenly to build a lusciously textured final product. As you layer, you’re basically creating a cheesy mosaic filled with bursts of pepperoni and herbs that will bake into a golden, irresistible loaf.
Step 5: Add Butter and Olive Oil
Pour the melted butter and olive oil over the layered dough. This step adds moisture, richness, and a crisp golden crust once baked, taking this Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe from great to absolutely divine. Be sure the butter and oil are evenly scattered so every bite gets a bit of that wonderful flavor.
Step 6: Bake and Check for Doneness
Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The bread should be golden brown and gooey with melted cheese. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is perfectly baked and ready to come out of the oven.
Step 7: Cool, Flip, and Serve
Allow the monkey bread to cool for about 5 minutes; this brief wait helps it stick together so you can flip it out of the pan without losing any of those tasty layers. Serve warm with a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping and, if you like, sprinkle the fresh chopped basil on top. This finishing touch adds color, freshness, and a burst of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil is the simplest way to elevate your Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe, imparting a lovely herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. You can also add a pinch of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for a shiny, appetizing finish. A little cracked black pepper or more red pepper flakes can bring some desired heat and complexity too.
Side Dishes
This monkey bread pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad tossed in vinaigrette to balance out the dish’s richness. Roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup like tomato basil will complement the cheesy, doughy star without competing for attention. Think light and fresh to keep every bite balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Make Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe the centerpiece of any party by serving it right from the bundt pan on a beautiful platter to show off its pull-apart appeal. You can also divide the bread onto smaller appetizer plates garnished individually with marinara cups for easy dipping. For a fun twist, try layering different pizza toppings in separate sections for guests to enjoy their favorite flavor combos.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store the Pizza Monkey Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and is perfect for quick snacks or reheated meals.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Pizza Monkey Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough soggy instead of keeping that lovely texture.
FAQs
Can I use different toppings in this Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to use sausage, olives, mushrooms, or even veggies like bell peppers. Customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe?
Yes, just skip the pepperoni and swap in your favorite vegetarian toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers. The cheese and herbs will still make it delicious.
What if I don’t have a bundt pan?
No worries! A 9×9-inch baking dish works great as well. Just make sure to grease it well so your monkey bread doesn’t stick and you get that golden crust.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate before baking, which makes it a great recipe for busy days or entertaining. Just allow extra baking time if baking from cold.
Why does the Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe call for both butter and olive oil?
The butter adds a rich, golden flavor and crispness, while the olive oil contributes moisture and a subtle fruity note. Together they create a perfectly balanced crust and mouthfeel.
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe is one of those irresistible dishes that brings everyone together around the table. It’s fun, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors that everyone will love. Give it a try for your next gathering, and you might just have a new family favorite in your recipe box!
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Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pizza Monkey Bread is a fun and delicious twist on traditional monkey bread, combining flaky biscuit dough with classic pizza flavors like pepperoni, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Baked in a bundt pan and served with marinara dipping sauce, this pull-apart bread is perfect for parties, snacks, or casual meals.
Ingredients
Dough and Cheese
- 2 cans (16 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough (or pizza dough)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 cup mini pepperoni (or any toppings of choice like sausage, olives, or mushrooms)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a bundt pan or a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Dough: Open the biscuit dough cans and cut each biscuit into quarters. If you’re using pizza dough instead, cut it into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy pulling apart.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the dough pieces, mini pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss well until all dough pieces are evenly coated with cheese and seasonings.
- Layer the Dough: Transfer the dough mixture into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly and layering to ensure an even bake and flavorful bites throughout.
- Add Butter and Olive Oil: Pour the melted butter and olive oil over the dough in the pan. This adds moisture and enhances the flavor, creating a golden, crispy crust on the outside.
- Bake: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pizza monkey bread to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then carefully flip it out onto a serving plate. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired.
Notes
- You can customize the toppings by using your favorite pizza ingredients like sausage, olives, or mushrooms instead of pepperoni.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a sprinkle of crushed chili powder.
- Make sure to grease your pan thoroughly to avoid sticking since the cheese can melt and stick.
- If you do not have a bundt pan, a 9×9-inch baking dish works well for baking this recipe.
- This dish is best served fresh and warm to enjoy the gooey cheese and soft bread.
