This Pizza Pull Apart Bread is a gooey, cheesy masterpiece that brings the joy of pizza in every bite. Soft, fluffy bread is loaded with melty mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a hint of garlic butter for an irresistible flavor explosion. Perfect for sharing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in. The golden crust and stretchy cheese pull will have everyone reaching for more.
Each piece is a delightful mix of textures—crispy edges, tender centers, and pockets of cheesy goodness. The aroma of fresh herbs and garlic fills the kitchen as it bakes, promising a comforting treat. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a snack craving, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Dive in and savor the ultimate comfort food experience!
Ingredients for Pizza Pull Apart Bread
- 1 round loaf of bread (day old works best for easier slicing)
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, grated (or use a mix of cheeses like cheddar for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup Tomato or Pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup Pepperoni, sliced (or substitute with cooked sausage, ham, or veggies)
- 1 tsp Dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or a pre-mixed blend)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Using a carving knife, slice the loaf all the way down to the base without cutting through. Create an “accordion” effect by spacing slices about 1 inch apart.
- Add the sauce: Spread pizza sauce generously on both sides of each slice. This ensures the bread is well-soaked and flavorful.
- Layer the fillings: Sprinkle grated Mozzarella, pepperoni slices, and dried Italian herbs between each slice. Be generous for maximum flavor!
- Wrap and prep: Fully wrap the loaf in tin foil. (You can refrigerate it at this stage to bake later if needed.)
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the wrapped loaf for 10 minutes, then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while warm and gooey. Enjoy!
Creative Sauce and Topping Ideas
Switch up the flavors by using pesto or alfredo sauce instead of pizza sauce for a unique twist. For toppings, try adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some crumbled bacon or jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Perfect Pairings for Serving
Serve your Pizza Pull Apart Bread with a side of marinara dipping sauce or ranch dressing for extra flavor. Pair it with a fresh green salad or soup for a complete meal. It’s also a great appetizer for game nights or parties—just tear and share!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. For a quick fix, pop individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, though the oven method keeps it crispier.
Time-Saving Hacks
Prep the loaf ahead of time by slicing and stuffing it with sauce and toppings, then wrap it in foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. Use pre-shredded cheese and pre-sliced pepperoni to cut down on prep time. If you’re in a rush, bake it straight from the fridge—just add an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use fresh bread? Yes, but day-old bread works best as it holds up better to slicing and soaking. Can I make it vegetarian? Absolutely! Skip the pepperoni and load up on veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or olives. Can I freeze it? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the unbaked, foil-wrapped loaf for up to 1 month—just bake it straight from the freezer, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Pizza Pull Apart Bread
Ingredients
- 1 round loaf bread (day old)
- Mozzarella, grated
- Tomato or Pizza sauce
- Pepperoni
- Dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Take your loaf of bread and using a carving knife, slice the bread all the way down to the base of the loaf BUT not through the loaf. We are creating a type of “accordion” bread.
- Butter each slice with Pizza sauce. You want to do this on both sides to get a really well soaked bread.
- Next generously sprinkles grated cheese, pepperoni and herbs between all of the slices. Be generous here, it will just make your loaf all the better.
- Wrap the loaf fully in tin foil (at this stage you can pop it in the fridge to bake it off later).
- Bake at 375oF (190oC) for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and allow to bake uncovered for another 10 minutes.
- Serve straight away and enjoy!
