Description
Pepperoni Pizza Bread
Turn up the heat with a spicy twist on this classic pizza bread!
Ingredients:
1 pre-made dough
1 cup mozzarella cheese
12 slices spicy pepperoni
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 tbsp marinara sauce
1 tsp chili oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
Spread marinara on the dough and sprinkle red pepper flakes.
Add mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and roll tightly.
Brush with chili oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Garnish with cilantro for a fresh kick.
How spicy do you like it? Mild, medium, or blazing?
#SpicyPizzaBread
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Spicy Pepperoni Pizza Bread every time.
- Prepare Your Workspace: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out your pre-made dough into a rough rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Apply the Base: Evenly spread the tablespoon of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a half-inch border around the edges. Immediately sprinkle the teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes over the sauce.
- Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Distribute the cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly, then lay the 12 slices of spicy pepperoni in a single layer across the cheese.
- Roll It Tight: Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seam and ends to seal.
- Final Touches Before Baking: Place the log seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently brush the entire surface with the chili oil for a glossy, spicy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the bread cool for 5-10 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly for cleaner slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Pepperoni Pizza Bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm as a shareable appetizer or game-day snack with small bowls of extra marinara, ranch, or garlic butter for dipping. For a heartier meal, pair a slice with a crisp green salad or a bowl of tomato soup. It also makes for a fantastic, portable lunch when packed with some fresh vegetable sticks.
How-to Summary
In short: Roll out dough, spread with spicy marinara and cheese, top with pepperoni, roll into a log, brush with chili oil, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro after cooling slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. While mozzarella is classic, a blend of mozzarella and provolone or Monterey Jack adds great flavor. For extra heat, try pepper jack cheese.
What if I don’t have pre-made dough? You can substitute with refrigerated pizza dough, puff pastry for a flakier texture, or even homemade dough. Adjust baking times accordingly if using a different base.
How can I make this less spicy? Omit the crushed red pepper flakes from the sauce and use regular pepperoni instead of spicy. You can also brush with regular olive oil instead of chili oil.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes. You can assemble the log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Brush with oil and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Dough: Using too much sauce or cheese can cause leaks during baking and make rolling difficult. Stick to the recommended amounts.
- Rolling Too Loosely: A loose roll will result in gaps and uneven baking. Roll the dough as tightly as possible for the best spiral structure.
- Skipping the Sealing Step: Not pinching the seam and ends closed can cause the entire roll to unravel in the oven.
- Slicing Immediately: Cutting the bread straight from the oven will cause the hot cheese to ooze out completely. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes first.
Conclusion
This Spicy Pepperoni Pizza Bread is the ultimate fusion of comforting pizza flavors and convenient, shareable bread. With its customizable heat level, simple ingredients, and straightforward process, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a savory treat, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and dips to make it your own!