Pizza is universally loved, and when you combine that with the pull-apart delight of monkey bread, you get an irresistible dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Pizza Monkey Bread is a simple, yet delicious recipe that merges the best of both worlds: the savory flavors of pizza and the fun, shareable nature of monkey bread. This dish is perfect for game days, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Introduction to Pizza Monkey Bread
Have you ever wished that pizza was just a little more portable, something you could easily share without needing a plate or utensils? Pizza Monkey Bread answers that wish perfectly. This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also endlessly customizable, meaning you can tailor it to suit your taste or the preferences of your guests. Whether you’re looking to serve it as a fun appetizer or a casual main course, Pizza Monkey Bread is versatile enough to meet your needs.
Moreover, this recipe uses refrigerated canned biscuits, which saves you time without sacrificing flavor. The biscuits provide a soft, fluffy base that absorbs the flavors of the pepperoni, cheeses, and seasonings, creating a bite-sized pizza experience that’s perfect for sharing.
History and Origin of Monkey Bread
While monkey bread itself has been a favorite in many households for decades, it’s believed to have roots in Eastern European coffee cakes. The original version is typically sweet, made with cinnamon and sugar, and has been a staple at breakfast tables across the United States. However, the savory twist of turning this into Pizza Monkey Bread is a relatively modern innovation, bringing together the comfort of monkey bread with the universally beloved flavors of pizza.
Ingredients Breakdown
The beauty of Pizza Monkey Bread lies in its simplicity. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe so special:
- Refrigerated Canned Biscuits: These are the foundation of the dish, providing a quick and easy base. You can cut each biscuit into quarters to create bite-sized pieces that cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Pepperoni: No pizza is complete without some form of cured meat, and pepperoni is the classic choice. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can substitute this with sausage, salami, or even Canadian bacon.
- Cheeses: Mozzarella and parmesan are the stars here, offering a gooey, cheesy pull with every bite. For a twist, you can try adding other cheese varieties such as cheddar, gouda, or provolone to mix things up.
- Butter and Seasonings: Melted butter ensures that each piece of bread is rich and flavorful. A blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes gives this dish its signature pizza taste.
- Optional Additions: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. This not only enhances the pizza flavor but also adds an extra layer of richness.
Easy Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe
If you’re a pizza enthusiast looking to shake things up, our Pizza Monkey Bread is your ticket to a delightful, appetizer adventure. Packed with gooey mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and a hint of garlic, this treat is baked to perfection in a Bundt pan, offering both visual appeal and finger-licking goodness. Ready your marinara sauce for dipping and dive into this cheesy marvel!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (16.3 oz each) of refrigerated biscuits, quartered
- 6 oz pepperoni, quartered
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter, cooled slightly
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get it nice and hot before the action begins!
- Mix it up: In a large mixing bowl, combine the quartered biscuits, pepperoni, mozzarella, Parmesan, butter, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic. Toss everything together until well-coated and ready to mingle.
- Prepare the pan: Grease a 10-inch Bundt pan thoroughly. If you prefer a traditional approach, a 9×13-inch baking dish also works wonderfully.
- Bake the beauty: Transfer your prepared mixture into the greased pan, spreading it out evenly. Slide it into the oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes. To prevent over-browning, cover the pan with aluminum foil after the first 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes, checking periodically in the last few minutes to ensure it’s done just right.
- Serve it up: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven. Run a knife around the edges to loosen them slightly. Carefully invert the pan onto a plate, then flip it again onto a serving plate so the top side is up.
- Enjoy: Pull apart the gooey, cheesy bread and dip each piece into warm marinara sauce. Delight in each bite!
Quick Tip
- Alternative Baking Dish: If using a 9×13-inch baking dish, the cooking time will typically be around 30 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
