Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bread

If you’re a devoted fan of pepperoni pizza, then prepare to elevate your pizza experience with this incredible Pepperoni Pizza Bread. This isn’t just another dish; it’s a culinary journey that transforms the beloved flavors of classic pepperoni pizza into a convenient, shareable, and utterly delicious bread. Imagine golden-baked pizza dough, generously filled with spicy pepperoni and gooey melted mozzarella, all neatly rolled and baked to perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Serve it warm with a side of rich marinara sauce for dipping, and get ready for a truly satisfying bite every single time.

Hello, food enthusiasts! We’ve got a fantastic new recipe that’s about to become a permanent fixture in your culinary repertoire. This easy-to-follow recipe creates a show-stopping dish that’s versatile enough to serve as fantastic finger food for lively parties, spirited game days, or even a casual, yet hearty, family dinner. This Pepperoni Pizza Bread is a true crowd-pleaser, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. It seamlessly combines two of the most cherished food categories – pizza and freshly baked bread – into one irresistible creation.

This delightful recipe arrives just in time for your weekend gatherings, family movie nights, or whenever hunger strikes and you crave something truly special. We’re already planning to enjoy this savory bread during our Saturday night watch party, and the anticipation is building! Get ready to experience the familiar comfort of pizza in a brand new, exciting format.

Contents

Why You Will Absolutely Love This Cheesy Pepperoni Bread

This pepperoni bread, made effortlessly with refrigerated pizza dough, stands out as a perfect appetizer or an unbeatable snack for tailgating events. Its charm lies in its simplicity and speed; by using readily available ingredients like pre-made pizza dough and a few pantry staples, this cheesy pepperoni pizza bread comes together in a flash, making it ideal for impromptu gatherings or busy weeknights.

But its appeal isn’t limited to special occasions. This versatile dish is hearty enough to be the star of your dinner table. Imagine pairing a warm slice with a crisp, light salad – a perfectly balanced and utterly satisfying meal. And the convenience doesn’t stop there! Leftovers, if you’re lucky enough to have any, reheat beautifully in an air fryer the next day, transforming into a delicious and quick lunch. It’s a testament to how this recipe adapts to your lifestyle, offering both comfort and practicality.

For those who truly adore all things pepperoni, this recipe is a must-try. It encapsulates that distinct savory, slightly spicy flavor we all love. If you’re looking to explore more pepperoni-infused culinary delights, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes:
Homemade Detroit Style Pizza, a rich and satisfying deep-dish experience;
Pizza Dip, a warm, cheesy, and dippable appetizer; and
Pizza Pasta, a comforting fusion that brings pizza flavors to your favorite pasta dish. Each offers a unique way to savor the deliciousness of pepperoni.

Essential Ingredients for Your Easy Pepperoni Pizza Bread

Crafting the perfect Pepperoni Pizza Bread requires a few key ingredients, most of which are likely already in your kitchen or easily found at your local grocery store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to achieve fantastic results with minimal fuss.

Refrigerated Pizza Dough: This is the hero of convenience for this recipe. A standard 13.8-ounce container of refrigerated pizza dough makes preparation incredibly quick. If refrigerated dough isn’t available, frozen pizza dough or even frozen bread dough works beautifully – just remember to thaw it completely and bring it to room temperature before rolling. For those who enjoy baking from scratch, homemade pizza dough will, of course, yield an even more personalized and delicious result.
Pepperoni Slices: The star of the show! A 6-ounce package of pre-sliced pepperoni is ideal for ease. You can also purchase a whole pepperoni stick and slice it yourself for a thicker, more rustic texture and potentially a richer flavor profile. Turkey pepperoni is a great alternative for a lighter option.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Eight ounces of mozzarella cheese provides that signature melty, stretchy goodness. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded mozzarella offers superior melt and flavor. Consider shredding your own for the best outcome, as explained in this helpful guide.
Dried Oregano & Dried Basil: These classic Italian herbs are fundamental to achieving an authentic pizza flavor. One teaspoon of each creates a balanced aromatic profile. Alternatively, two teaspoons of a good quality Italian seasoning blend can be used, as it typically contains both oregano and basil, along with other complementary herbs.
Garlic Powder: A teaspoon of garlic powder infuses the bread with a savory, pungent depth. If you prefer fresh garlic, approximately one clove, minced, can be substituted for a quarter teaspoon of garlic powder, adjusting to your taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of warmth and subtle heat, a quarter to half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes is perfect. Adjust the amount based on your preference for spiciness. If red pepper flakes aren’t on hand, cayenne pepper can be used, but start with half the amount (e.g., ¼ teaspoon cayenne for ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes) as it’s generally more potent.
Large Egg: One large egg is vital for creating the egg wash, which gives the bread a beautiful golden-brown crust and helps other toppings adhere.
Water: One tablespoon of water is mixed with the egg to thin out the wash, making it easier to brush evenly over the dough.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated or shredded Parmesan cheese on top before baking adds an extra layer of salty, nutty, cheesy flavor and a lovely texture to the crust.
Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce: Essential for serving! This pepperoni pizza bread truly shines when dipped into your favorite warm marinara or pizza sauce. Use a high-quality jarred sauce for convenience, or try your hand at this exquisite homemade marinara recipe for an unparalleled taste experience.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make This Irresistible Pepperoni Bread Recipe

Creating this delicious Pepperoni Pizza Bread is surprisingly simple, even for novice bakers. Follow these clear, detailed steps to achieve a perfectly golden, cheesy, and flavorful loaf every time.

Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature for even baking as soon as your bread is ready. Next, lightly spray a small pie plate (a 9-inch pie plate works well) with a non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease it with olive oil. This prevents the bread from sticking and helps achieve a beautifully browned bottom crust. Set the prepared pie plate aside.
Make the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together one large egg and one tablespoon of water until well combined. This egg wash will be brushed onto the dough to create a glossy, golden crust and help the seasonings adhere. Set this aside for later use.
Prepare the Herb and Spice Mixture: In another small bowl, combine the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Give them a quick stir to ensure they are evenly mixed. This flavorful blend will be sprinkled over your pepperoni and cheese, infusing every bite with aromatic goodness.
Roll Out the Pizza Dough: Lightly flour a clean work surface or your silicone pastry mat. Carefully unroll the refrigerated pizza dough. Using a rolling pin, gently roll the dough out into a large, even rectangular shape. Aim for a thickness of no more than about ¼ inch (approximately 0.6 cm). A thinner dough allows for a more even spiral and ensures the bread bakes through perfectly.
Apply the First Layer of Egg Wash: With a pastry brush, lightly brush the entire surface of the rolled-out pizza dough with the prepared egg wash. This helps seal in moisture and acts as an adhesive for the fillings.
Season the Dough: Generously and evenly sprinkle the mixed herbs and spices (oregano, basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes) over the egg-washed dough. Ensure good coverage to maximize flavor distribution.
Layer with Pepperoni and Mozzarella: Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the seasoned dough, making sure to leave a clear ½-inch border around all the edges. This border is crucial for sealing the dough later. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pepperoni, again leaving that essential ½-inch border. The border will prevent cheese from oozing out during baking.
Roll Up the Dough: Starting from one of the long sides, carefully and tightly roll the dough lengthwise, creating a log with the pepperoni and cheese tucked inside. Take your time to keep the roll as tight as possible to prevent gaps.
Seal the Edges: Once rolled, firmly pinch the seam and both ends of the dough log closed. You can use a bit of the egg wash to help seal the seam along the entire roll, ensuring no fillings escape during baking.
Coil the Dough: Gently coil the dough log into a spiral, starting from one end and working your way inward. This creates the beautiful circular shape of the pizza bread.
Place in Pie Plate: Carefully transfer the coiled dough into the prepared pie plate. A silicone pastry mat can be incredibly useful here, making it easier to lift and transfer the delicate dough without tearing.
Final Touches and Seasoning: Brush the top and sides of the coiled dough with the remaining egg wash. Then, lightly sprinkle with a little extra garlic powder and a generous dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. This final layer adds depth of flavor and a beautiful golden finish.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning. The pepperoni roll is done when the cheese inside is thoroughly melted, and the crust has achieved a beautiful golden-brown color.
Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the Pepperoni Pizza Bread from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and preventing the fillings from spilling out. Serve generous slices warm, accompanied by a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!

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Aunt Julie’s Pepperoni Bread: A Culinary Inspiration

Today’s incredible Pepperoni Pizza Bread recipe comes with a heartwarming backstory, steeped in the spirit of culinary community and shared joy. While I’m delighted to bring this dish to your table, I must give immense credit and a big thank you to Aunt Julie for her original recipe, and to her talented niece, Chrissie from Off the Eaten Path, for graciously sharing it with me!

This delightful exchange is part of “Freaky Friday,” a unique and exciting blog hop that I’ve had the pleasure of hosting for several years. It’s a fantastic tradition where a group of food blogger friends and I secretly cook or bake from an assigned blog, then all reveal our chosen recipes on the same day, at the very same time. And today is that exciting day! My assigned blog for this round was Off the Eaten Path, skillfully helmed by Chrissie.

Chrissie describes herself as a passionate lover of pizza and sushi, a connoisseur of craft beer and red wine, an adventurous restaurant explorer, and a dedicated home cook. After moving to Charlotte in 2013, she launched her blog as a creative outlet to share her twin passions for food and writing. Beyond her blog, Chrissie is also the accomplished author of her own captivating cookbook, showcasing her expertise in creating stunning spreads for entertaining.

Discovering Deliciousness on Off the Eaten Path Blog

Diving into Chrissie’s vibrant site to select a recipe for our fall edition of Freaky Friday was a true pleasure. Her blog is brimming with tempting options, making it hard to choose just one! I initially narrowed it down to four standout recipes. While I ultimately chose this fantastic Pepperoni Bread, my other top contenders were her light and fresh Sunday Simple Guacamole recipe, the wonderfully decadent Salted Caramel Apple Pie, and her comforting Crockpot Creamy Tomato Soup.

All three of those alternative recipes definitely evoked strong fall vibes, perfect for the season. However, with tailgating season in full swing and the desire for a hearty, savory crowd-pleaser, the Pepperoni Bread ultimately stole the spotlight. It was simply the perfect fit for the occasion! I highly encourage you to learn more about Chrissie and explore the full collection of her diverse and delicious recipes on her inspiring blog. You’re sure to find many more culinary treasures there!

Beyond the Basics: FAQs About This Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Bread

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious Pepperoni Pizza Bread:

Is pepperoni bread the same as stromboli?: Pepperoni bread and stromboli are indeed very similar, sharing many core characteristics. Both typically utilize pizza dough and are filled with ingredients, notably without a layer of sauce inside the filling itself. The primary distinction between this coiled pizza bread recipe and a traditional stromboli lies in their final shape and baking method. Stromboli is generally shaped into a cylindrical log and baked on a flat baking pan, whereas this pepperoni pizza bread is coiled into a spiral and baked in a pie pan. Interestingly, stromboli is considered an Italian-American creation, believed to have originated in Philadelphia.
Can I use bread dough instead of pizza dough?: Absolutely, yes! You can readily substitute refrigerated or frozen bread dough for pizza dough in this recipe. If you opt for frozen dough, it’s crucial to ensure it is completely defrosted before you begin working with it. Regardless of whether you use pizza dough or bread dough, for the best results and easiest handling, it is highly recommended to bring the dough to room temperature before attempting to roll it out. This allows the dough’s glutens to relax, making it more pliable and less prone to tearing.
Can I freeze leftover Pepperoni Pizza Bread?: Yes, this Pepperoni Pizza Bread freezes beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in foil, then place it in a freezer-safe resealable bag. It can be stored in the freezer for 1-2 months. To reheat, simply remove from the freezer and warm in the oven (covered with foil to prevent drying) or air fryer until heated through.

Customizing Your Pepperoni Pizza Bread: Delicious Substitutions

One of the best aspects of this Pepperoni Pizza Bread recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative with substitutions to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Pizza Dough Alternatives: As mentioned, if refrigerated pizza dough isn’t available, frozen pizza dough or frozen bread dough are excellent stand-ins. Just remember to thaw any frozen dough completely and bring it to room temperature for easier handling. For those who love a challenge and the reward of from-scratch baking, homemade pizza dough will yield exceptional results and allow for precise control over the crust’s texture and flavor.
Protein Variations Beyond Pepperoni: While pepperoni is classic, don’t hesitate to change up the protein for a different flavor profile. Crumbled cooked sausage, finely diced Canadian bacon, or seasoned ground beef would be absolutely delicious alternatives. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey pepperoni is a fantastic substitute that still delivers that savory, spicy kick. Ensure any meat additions are fully cooked and drained of excess grease before incorporating them into the dough.
Cheese Choices: Mozzarella cheese is traditionally the best for pepperoni bread due to its excellent melting qualities and mild flavor that complements the other ingredients. However, if you’re looking for a slight variation, other mild white cheeses like provolone or even creamy burrata (though burrata might be trickier to roll) could offer an interesting twist. A blend of mozzarella and a sharper cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack could also add more depth.
Herb Combinations: Instead of separate dried oregano and basil, two teaspoons of a good quality Italian seasoning blend will work perfectly, as it typically contains both herbs along with others like marjoram, thyme, and rosemary. For a brighter, fresher flavor, consider using fresh herbs. A general rule of thumb is to use one tablespoon of fresh herbs for every one teaspoon of dried herbs, so you would use one tablespoon each of fresh chopped oregano and basil.
Garlic Options: Fresh garlic can definitely be substituted for garlic powder. As a guideline, one minced clove of fresh garlic is roughly equivalent to a quarter teaspoon of garlic powder. Adjust this amount based on your personal preference for garlic intensity.
Heat Level Adjustments: If you don’t have red pepper flakes or prefer a different type of heat, ground cayenne pepper is a suitable substitute. However, cayenne is often more potent than red pepper flakes, so start with about half the amount. For instance, a quarter teaspoon of cayenne will provide a similar heat level to a half teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Adjust gradually to achieve your desired spice.
Egg Wash Alternatives: While an egg wash provides that signature golden sheen, if you can’t use egg or don’t have one, there are alternatives. Brushing the dough with milk, cream, melted butter, or even a light drizzle of olive oil can still help with browning and provide a lovely crust.
Parmesan Cheese Substitutes: For the top sprinkle, if Parmesan cheese isn’t available, Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheeses are excellent substitutes. Both offer a similar salty, nutty, and sharp flavor profile that complements the pepperoni and mozzarella beautifully.
Dipping Sauce Choices: The choice of dipping sauce is entirely up to you! Any of your favorite jarred pizza sauce or marinara sauces will be delicious. For a truly homemade touch, consider preparing my go-to marinara sauce recipe for an unforgettable pairing.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pepperoni Pizza Bread

Achieving the best possible Pepperoni Pizza Bread is easy with a few simple tricks and considerations. These tips will help ensure your bread is not only delicious but also perfectly textured and easy to enjoy.

Room Temperature Dough is Key: Always bring your pizza dough to room temperature before attempting to roll it out. Cold dough is stiff and elastic, making it difficult to stretch and prone to snapping back or tearing. Allowing it to warm up for about 30 minutes to an hour helps the glutens relax, making the dough much more pliable and easier to work with, resulting in a smoother, more even roll.
Storing Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftover pepperoni bread (a rare occurrence, we know!), proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness. Store it in an airtight container or a resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe resealable bag. It will keep well in the freezer for 1-2 months. This makes it a great make-ahead option!
Reheating Methods: Reheating your leftover pizza bread is simple. For a quick warm-up, individual slices can be heated in the microwave for about 1 minute, or until warm. For a crispier crust and more even heating, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Covering it lightly with foil can prevent it from drying out. The air fryer is also a fantastic option for reheating, providing a perfectly crisp exterior.
Pairing for a Complete Meal: This cheesy pepperoni pizza bread transforms into a wonderfully satisfying dinner when paired with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or a classic Caesar salad would complement the rich flavors of the bread beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast and creating a balanced meal.
Versatile Serving Ideas: Beyond being a great appetizer or dinner, consider cutting this bread into smaller pinwheels for a party platter. It’s also fantastic in packed lunches for a fun twist on a sandwich. Leftover slices can even be chopped and tossed into a salad, much like my Little King Hoagie Salad, adding a delicious, savory crouton-like element.
Don’t Skimp on the Dipping Sauce: While the bread itself is bursting with flavor, a good quality marinara or pizza sauce for dipping is non-negotiable. It adds moisture, tang, and another layer of classic pizza goodness that completes the experience.

More Irresistible Pizza Creations You’ll Adore

If your love for pizza knows no bounds, then you’re in for a treat! We understand the universal appeal of this iconic dish, and we’re excited to share even more creative and delicious ways to enjoy pizza beyond the traditional slice. Explore these fantastic recipes that capture the essence of pizza in various forms:

Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese (pictured above): A comforting fusion of two classics, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza: A spicy and zesty pizza that brings the bold flavors of buffalo wings to your dough.
Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pizza: A rich and creamy pizza offering a sophisticated twist on the beloved dip.
Chicken Pesto Pizza: A vibrant and fresh option featuring aromatic pesto, tender chicken, and savory cheeses.
Reuben Pizza: An unexpected but delightful combination, transforming the classic Reuben sandwich into a pizza.
Dorothy’s Pizza Pockets: Perfect for on-the-go snacking or lunchboxes, these pockets are filled with all your favorite pizza flavors.

Explore All Our 2022 Freaky Friday Fall Edition Recipes

Before you depart, take a moment to admire the full collection of incredible fall-themed recipes from this round of Freaky Friday! Each one is a testament to the creativity and passion of our food blogging community.

An Affair from the Heart – Pepperoni Pizza Bread
Aunt Bee’s Recipes – Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup
The Culinary Compass – Butternut Squash Soup with Coconut Milk
Devour Dinner – Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice
Family Around the Table – White Chocolate Pumpkin Martini
Feast + West – Bourbon Caramel Sauce
Fresh April Flours – Butterfinger Poke Cake
Home Cooked Harvest – Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes
Hostess at Heart – The BEST Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Kathryn’s Kitchen Blog – Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Life Currents – French Onion Bruschetta
Off the Eaten Path – Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
The Speckled Palate – German Pancake
Sue Bee Homemaker – Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
Take Two Tapas – Crockpot Pizza Dip
The Wimpy Vegetarian – Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

See ALL of my past Freaky Friday recipes

Feeling that familiar craving for pepperoni pizza? Look no further than this fantastic Pepperoni Pizza Bread to satisfy it completely. This recipe is not only incredibly simple to prepare but also wonderfully versatile, making it perfect for countless occasions – from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. With its cheesy, savory filling and golden, flavorful crust, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful dish, and savor every mouthwatering bite!

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Sliced pepperoni pizza bread layered in a clear pie dish.

Rating: 5 from 11 votes

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Pepperoni Pizza Bread

If you are a fan of pepperoni pizza like I am, then you will want to try this tasty pepperoni pizza bread. This cheesy pizza bread takes pizza night to the next level! It has all the flavors of pepperoni pizza neatly tucked inside freshly baked pizza dough. Serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 40 mins (Revised based on 10 + 30)

Course: Appetizers & Snacks

Cuisine: American/Italian

Keyword: appetizer, Italian seasoning, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Pepperoni, pepperoni bread, pepperoni cheese bread, pepperoni pizza bread

Servings: 10 servings

Calories: 182kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Large Silicone Pastry Mat
KitchenAid Gourmet Rolling Pin, One Size, Red
Ceramic Pie Dish, 10-Inch

Ingredients

1 (13.8 ounce) container refrigerated pizza dough
6 ounce package pepperoni slices
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (depending on how spicy you like things)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
Grated Parmesan cheese
Marinara or pizza sauce, for serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a pie plate with non-stick cooking spray or grease with a thin layer of olive oil.
Whisk egg and water together to create an egg wash.
Mix together oregano, basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
Roll out pizza dough into a large rectangle using a rolling pin on a lightly floured surface or on a silicone pastry mat. The dough should be pretty thin, less than ¼ inch thick.
Brush dough with the egg wash.
Sprinkle the spice mix evenly across the dough.
Layer pepperoni slices and mozzarella cheese evenly across the dough, leaving about a ¼ to ½ inch border along all four sides.
Slowly and carefully, tightly roll up the dough jellyroll style from the long side.
Pinch the ends of the pepperoni roll closed and use a bit of egg wash to seal the seam across the entire roll.
Coil the pepperoni bread into a spiral shape, and place it in the prepared pie plate.
Brush the top with more egg wash.
Give a light sprinkle of garlic powder and oregano, and dust the top with grated parmesan cheese.
Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Let stand for a few minutes before cutting and serving it hot with a side of pizza sauce for dipping.

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