Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza Monkey Bread is a delightful twist on traditional pizza, offering a fun and shareable experience. This savory pull-apart bread combines the flavors of pizza with the convenience of biscuit dough. Each bite is packed with gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect appetizer, snack, or even a main dish for gatherings. Its interactive nature and delicious taste are sure to be a hit at any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Refrigerated canned biscuits
Pepperoni slices
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Unsalted butter, melted
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Garlic salt
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Marinara sauce, for dipping

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Prepare the dough: Cut each biscuit into 4 pieces.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the biscuit pieces with sliced pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, melted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes until evenly coated.
Assemble: Layer the mixture into the prepared bundt pan, pressing down gently to compact.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Cover with foil during the last 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes, then invert the bundt pan onto a serving plate. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 people
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Add provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for varied flavors.
Meat Choices: Incorporate cooked sausage instead of pepperoni for a different taste.
Vegetarian Version: Use sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions instead of meat.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the dough mixture.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or oregano for added aroma.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned biscuits?

Yes, you can use homemade biscuit dough. Just ensure it’s rolled out and cut into 4 pieces per biscuit to maintain the recipe’s proportions.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the canned biscuits with a gluten-free biscuit dough or pizza dough. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the monkey bread the night before and refrigerate it. Bake it the next day as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Is it possible to freeze Pizza Monkey Bread?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled (unbaked) monkey bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding additional time as necessary.

Can I use a different pan instead of a bundt pan?

While a bundt pan gives the bread its signature shape, you can use a 9×13-inch baking dish. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as it may bake faster in a wider pan.

How do I know when the monkey bread is done?

The bread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I add more sauce inside the dough pieces?

Yes, you can add a small spoonful of marinara sauce inside each biscuit piece before assembling. Just be cautious not to overfill to prevent sogginess.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, by omitting the pepperoni and using vegetarian-friendly cheeses, this recipe can be made vegetarian.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

While not tested, you can try assembling the ingredients in a greased slow cooker and cooking on low for 2-3 hours, checking for doneness.

What can I serve with Pizza Monkey Bread?

Serve with additional marinara sauce, a side salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Pizza Monkey Bread is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best of pizza and pull-apart bread. Its customizable nature allows for endless variations to suit any taste. Whether for a casual family dinner or a party appetizer, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table.