This fun Pizza Monkey Bread is a tasty twist on pizza! It’s made with fluffy dough, cheese, and pepperoni, all baked together for a pull-apart treat that kids and adults love!
Making this dish always brings smiles at my dinner table. Just tear it apart and enjoy! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up for game night or any family gathering. Yum! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Biscuit Dough: Refrigerated biscuit dough is the base of this dish. You can also use homemade dough if you’re feeling adventurous. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free biscuit dough.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that gooey texture. Feel free to swap it with a blend of cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile!
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni works great, but you can use regular pepperoni cut into smaller pieces. If you prefer a meatless option, try using veggies, like mushrooms or bell peppers, for added flavor.
Herbs and Spices: Italian seasoning and garlic powder give a rich taste. If you have fresh herbs on hand, like basil or oregano, add them for a fresh touch! For an extra kick, don’t skip the red pepper flakes.
How Do I Layer the Monkey Bread Properly?
Layering your ingredients correctly is key for even baking and flavor. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by tossing the biscuit pieces in the butter mixture. This helps flavor each bite!
- In your greased bundt pan, layer the biscuit pieces, mozzarella, and pepperoni like this: one layer of biscuit pieces, followed by a sprinkle of cheese, then a layer of pepperoni. Repeat until all are used.
- Be sure to press each layer gently to help it bind together while baking.
This careful layering leads to delightful pull-apart pieces that are oozing with cheese and flavor. Enjoy your baking!
How to Make Pizza Monkey Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 cans refrigerated biscuit dough (16.3 oz each)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (or regular pepperoni cut into smaller pieces)
For the Toppings:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
For Dipping:
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pizza Monkey Bread will take you about 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 45-50 minutes before you can dig into this cheesy, pull-apart delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, take a bundt pan or a round tube pan and grease it well with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Biscuit Dough
Next, cut each biscuit into quarters (or bite-size pieces) to make them easier to layer in the pan.
3. Mix the Coating
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). This mixture will add delicious flavor to your monkey bread!
4. Coat the Biscuit Pieces
Now it’s time to toss the biscuit pieces into the butter mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. This is where the flavor really starts to come together!
5. Layer in the Pan
Begin layering the coated biscuit pieces in the greased bundt pan. Alternate layers of biscuit pieces, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni slices. For example: start with a layer of biscuit pieces, then add a layer of cheese, followed by pepperoni, and repeat until all ingredients are used up.
6. Top it Off
Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the layered biscuit mixture for an extra cheesy finish.
7. Bake the Monkey Bread
Place your bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the monkey bread is golden brown, cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end!
8. Cool and Invert
Once baked, let the monkey bread cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a serving platter. It should come out easily if you greased the pan well.
9. Garnish and Serve
For a lovely finishing touch, you can garnish the monkey bread with chopped fresh parsley or basil if you like. Serve warm with a bowl of pizza sauce in the center for dipping.
This Pizza Monkey Bread is truly perfect for parties or family snacks. Just tear off pieces and dip them into the pizza sauce for a gooey, cheesy, and pepperoni-packed treat! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional for that gooey texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of your favorites. Just be mindful that the flavors will change slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the pepperoni and consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms instead. You can also add more cheese or spices to boost the flavor without the meat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven will keep the bread crispy.
Can I Prepare the Monkey Bread Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the biscuit pieces and coat them in the butter mixture a day in advance. Simply layer them in the pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the wrap and follow the baking instructions. It may require a minute or two longer in the oven if it’s starting cold.
