This Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread is the ultimate snack or party appetizer, combining the irresistible flavors of garlic butter, pizza sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese on crispy French bread. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or entertaining, this easy recipe is customizable with your favorite pizza toppings. Enjoy warm, cheesy, and perfectly toasted garlic bread in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
1 loaf French bread, sliced in half horizontally
1/4 cup salted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional toppings: pepperoni, olives, or other pizza toppings of choice
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your garlic bread will come out perfectly crispy and delicious.
Prepare the Garlic Bread Base:
Spread the softened butter evenly over each half of the French bread. Sprinkle garlic powder on top for that irresistible garlic flavor. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 3-5 minutes, or until it’s lightly toasted.
Add Sauce and Toppings:
Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and spread the pizza sauce evenly over each slice. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top. Feel free to add any additional toppings like pepperoni or olives to customize your garlic bread to your liking.
Bake the Garlic Bread:
Return the bread to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the garlic bread cool for a few minutes before slicing into pieces.
Serving Tips:
Serve Warm: For the best taste, enjoy your garlic bread while it’s still warm. The melted cheese and crispy bread are at their peak right out of the oven.
Pair with Dips: Enhance your garlic bread experience by serving it with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic dipping oil.
Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: If serving at a party, cut the bread into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added color and flavor before serving.
Storage Tips:
Cool Completely: Allow the garlic bread to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze for Longer Storage: To keep garlic bread for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheat Properly: To reheat, place the garlic bread in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the bread soggy.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute French bread with other types of bread such as Italian bread, ciabatta, or even whole wheat bread. Just make sure to adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Can I make this garlic bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic bread ahead of time. Assemble the bread with garlic butter, pizza sauce, and cheese, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I freeze Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled, unbaked garlic bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What are some alternative toppings I can use?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Besides pepperoni, you can add ingredients like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, or cooked sausage. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Parmesan or provolone, for added flavor.
Conclusion:
This Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor—perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
📖 Recipe:
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Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Are you craving a delicious, savory treat that’s easy to make and sure to please a crowd? Look no further than this Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread! Combining the classic flavors of garlic butter, pizza sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese on top of crispy French bread, this recipe is perfect for a quick snack or a standout party appetizer. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite pizza toppings!
Ingredients
1 loaf French bread, sliced in half horizontally
1/4 cup salted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional toppings: pepperoni, olives, or other pizza toppings of choice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Bread Base: Spread softened butter evenly over each half of the French bread and sprinkle with garlic powder. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 3-5 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
- Add Sauce and Toppings: Remove the bread from the oven and spread pizza sauce evenly over each slice. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and any additional toppings like pepperoni.
- Bake the Garlic Bread: Return the bread to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley as a garnish before serving.
Feel free to customize with your favorite pizza toppings or cheese varieties.
To make ahead, prepare and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from chilled.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal
