Pull-Apart Pizza Bread with Beef Pepperoni

isla Rose
Pizza Bread with Beef Pepperoni image

When it comes to comfort food that’s both indulgent and shareable, few dishes can match the appeal of Pull-Apart Pizza Bread with Beef Pepperoni. This delightful creation combines the gooey richness of melted cheese, the bold kick of pepperoni, and the rustic warmth of bread – all bundled into a fun, easy-to-share format. Ideal for parties, game nights, or a hearty snack, this recipe is as entertaining as it is satisfying.

In this article, we’ll explore how to prepare this irresistible dish, what makes it so popular, and offer some variations and tips for perfect results every time.

What Is Pull-Apart Pizza Bread?

Pull-apart bread, also known as monkey bread or tear-and-share bread, is a form of baked bread that is made for communal enjoyment. The dough is sectioned into small, bite-sized pieces that are coated in butter, herbs, cheese, and other fillings, and then baked together in a bundt or loaf pan.

Pull-Apart Pizza Bread with Beef Pepperoni image

Pull-Apart Pizza Bread with Beef Pepperoni takes this concept to the next level by integrating classic pizza flavours—mozzarella, marinara sauce, and beef pepperoni—into every bite.

Why Choose Beef Pepperoni?

While pork pepperoni is traditional, beef pepperoni offers a richer, more robust flavour and is an excellent alternative for those avoiding pork for dietary or cultural reasons. It crisps up beautifully in the oven and complements the creamy cheese and herbed bread layers wonderfully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious pull-apart bread, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough (or use store-bought pizza dough):

  • 500g strong white bread flour
  • 1 packet (7g) dried yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 300ml warm water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

  • 150g beef pepperoni, sliced or chopped
  • 250g mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 100g cheddar cheese, grated
  • 3 tbsp butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp crushed chilli flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Dipping:

  • 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce

Method: How to Make Pull-Apart Pizza Bread with Beef Pepperoni

how to make Pizza Bread with Beef image

Prepare the Dough (Skip if using ready-made)

  1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
  2. Add the warm water and olive oil, and knead until a smooth dough forms.
  3. Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Flavour Mixture

  1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, and chilli flakes.
  2. Set aside.

Assemble the Bread

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan) or 200°C (conventional).
  2. Lightly grease a bundt tin or loaf pan.
  3. If using homemade dough, punch it down and divide into small balls (golf-ball size). If using store-bought, cut the dough into small sections.
  4. Flatten each dough ball slightly, place a bit of mozzarella, cheddar, and a piece of beef pepperoni in the centre, then pinch to seal.
  5. Dip each ball into the butter and herb mixture and layer them into the pan.
  6. Once all balls are arranged, sprinkle any remaining cheese and pepperoni on top.

Bake

  1. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Let cool slightly before inverting onto a plate.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pull-Apart Pizza Bread with Beef Pepperoni warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crispy potato wedges for a full meal.

Pizza Bread with Beef

Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace pepperoni with roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives.
  • Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or use spicy beef pepperoni.
  • Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Use a blend of cheeses like gouda, fontina, or blue cheese for a more complex flavour.
  • Herbed Dough: Add fresh chopped basil or thyme directly into the dough.

Tips for Perfect Results

  • Use a Bundt Pan: It helps create an evenly baked ring that looks impressive when served.
  • Don’t Overfill: Too much cheese can cause the bread to break apart or become soggy.
  • Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven, while the cheese is still gooey.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the dough balls and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature before baking.

Why This Dish Is a Crowd-Pleaser

The beauty of Pull-Apart Pizza Bread with Beef Pepperoni lies in its playful presentation and crowd-friendly format. It’s a dish that encourages sharing, laughter, and communal enjoyment. Its combination of soft bread, melted cheese, and savoury pepperoni appeals to both adults and children alike.

Whether you’re hosting a movie night, having friends over for dinner, or simply craving a comforting snack, this dish is sure to impress.

Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)

  • Calories: 310
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Sugar: 2g

Conclusion

Pull-Apart Pizza Bread with Beef Pepperoni is more than just a snack – it’s an experience. With its blend of cheesy goodness, savoury meat, and aromatic herbs, it’s bound to become a firm favourite at your table. Easy to prepare and utterly irresistible, it’s a recipe that delivers on both taste and fun.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply treating yourself, give this tear-and-share delight a try – and watch it disappear in minutes.