Indulge in a delightful culinary adventure with our Pizza Monkey Bread recipe, a creative spin on traditional pizza that’s guaranteed to please. This fun and easy-to-make dish combines the irresistible flavors of pepperoni, gooey mozzarella cheese, and savory seasonings, all packed into bite-sized pieces of refrigerated biscuits. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, this recipe is a surefire hit for any gathering or casual meal.
Ingredients:
2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated biscuits
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup mini pepperoni slices
1/2 cup melted butter
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions:
Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare Biscuit Mix: Cut each biscuit into quarters. In a large bowl, combine the biscuit pieces with shredded mozzarella cheese and mini pepperoni slices.
Prepare Butter Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Coat and Layer: Pour half of the butter mixture over the biscuit mixture and gently toss to coat. Layer half of the biscuit mixture into the prepared pan. Pour the remaining butter mixture over the top, then add the remaining biscuit mixture.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until the Pizza Monkey Bread turns golden brown and is cooked through.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. If using a bundt pan, invert onto a serving platter. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Serving Tips:
Serve Warm: Pizza Monkey Bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when it’s warm and gooey. The melted cheese and buttery goodness are at their peak right after baking.
Dipping Sauce: Pair with marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the pizza-inspired flavors. The tangy tomato sauce complements the cheesy and savory notes of the bread.
Presentation: If using a bundt pan, invert the bread onto a serving platter for an impressive presentation. This allows guests to easily pull apart the pieces.
Garnish: For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the bread before serving. It adds color and a hint of freshness to each bite.
Storage Tips:
Cool Completely: Allow any leftovers to cool completely at room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Store Properly: Store leftover Pizza Monkey Bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the texture and flavors.
Freezing (Optional): If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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FAQs:
Can I customize the toppings in Pizza Monkey Bread?
Absolutely! Pizza Monkey Bread is highly customizable. You can add your favorite pizza toppings such as cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or even different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Can I make Pizza Monkey Bread ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare Pizza Monkey Bread ahead of time and bake it just before serving. Prepare the bread as directed up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, proceed with baking according to the recipe instructions.
What should I serve with Pizza Monkey Bread besides marinara sauce?
Alongside marinara sauce, you can serve Pizza Monkey Bread with ranch dressing, garlic butter dipping sauce, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different flavor experience. These sauces complement the cheesy and savory flavors of the bread.
Can I make Pizza Monkey Bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of Pizza Monkey Bread by using gluten-free refrigerated biscuit dough. Ensure all other ingredients, including the mini pepperoni and cheeses, are also gluten-free. Follow the recipe instructions as usual, adjusting baking times as needed based on the specific dough used.