Description
Quick & Cheesy Pepperoni Bread Pizza
Take your bread pizza up a notch with the smoky flavor of bacon!
Ingredients:
4 slices of rustic bread
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
6 slices pepperoni
4 strips of crispy bacon, crumbled
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Spread marinara sauce over bread slices.
Add cheese, pepperoni, and crumbled bacon.
Bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts.
Tip: Use smoked mozzarella for a richer flavor.
#BaconBreadPizza
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect pepperoni bread pizza every time.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place a rack in the center position for even cooking.
- While the oven heats, prepare your bacon. Cook 4 strips in a skillet until very crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, let cool, and crumble into small pieces.
- Lay your 4 slices of rustic bread on a clean baking sheet. For extra crispiness, you can lightly toast them for 2-3 minutes in the preheating oven first.
- Using a spoon, evenly spread about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce onto each bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent excessive dripping.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each slice.
- Arrange the pepperoni slices (about 1.5 per slice) and an even amount of the crumbled bacon over the cheese.
- Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes. Watch closely starting at the 8-minute mark—the pizza is done when the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and just beginning to brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This quick pizza is a versatile snack or meal. Serve it as a hearty appetizer cut into strips, paired with a side of extra marinara or ranch dressing for dipping. For a complete lunch, accompany it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It also makes a fantastic game-day or movie-night finger food.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 200°C. Cook and crumble bacon. Spread sauce on bread, top with cheese, pepperoni, and bacon. Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this with different bread?
Absolutely! French bread, ciabatta, or a baguette sliced lengthwise work wonderfully. Adjust baking time slightly for thicker bread.
How can I make this recipe crispier?
For a crispier base, lightly toast the plain bread slices in the oven for 2-3 minutes before adding toppings. You can also bake the finished pizzas directly on the oven rack for the last 2 minutes.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can assemble the pizzas (without baking) up to a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.
What are some good cheese substitutes?
For a richer flavor, use the smoked mozzarella as suggested. A blend of mozzarella and provolone or a pre-shredded pizza cheese mix are also excellent choices.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best results to maintain texture; the microwave will make the bread soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using soggy bread: Avoid thin, soft sandwich bread as it can become mushy. Rustic, artisan-style bread holds up best.
- Overloading with sauce: Too much sauce is the primary cause of a soggy pizza. Use a thin, even layer.
- Undercooking the bacon: Ensure your bacon is very crispy before crumbling. Soft bacon will release grease during baking, making the pizza oily.
- Not preheating the oven: A properly preheated oven is crucial for that quick melt and crisp finish. Don’t skip this step.
Conclusion
This Quick & Cheesy Pepperoni Bread Pizza is the ultimate solution for a delicious meal in minutes. By combining simple ingredients with the smoky punch of bacon, it elevates basic bread pizza into a truly satisfying dish. Remember the tips for crispiness, don’t shy away from customizing with your favorite toppings, and most importantly, enjoy the irresistible, cheesy result of your minimal effort.