Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe is a delightful and savory twist on the classic monkey bread. This dish features bite-sized pieces of refrigerator biscuits combined with gooey mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and a blend of Italian seasonings, all baked together in a bundt pan. The result is a golden, pull-apart bread that’s perfect for sharing. The warm, cheesy interior and the crispy exterior make it an irresistible treat. Serve it with a side of tomato sauce for dipping, and you’ve got a fun and flavorful appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Once upon a time in a cozy kitchen, there was a group of friends who loved to experiment with new recipes. One chilly evening, they wanted to create something that would bring everyone together, something fun and delicious that could double as a snack and a conversation starter. They looked through their pantry and came across some refrigerator biscuits, pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese. Inspired by their love for pizza and the pull-apart bread they enjoyed at family gatherings, they decided to combine these ingredients into a new creation.
After a bit of mixing and matching, they discovered the perfect combination: tender biscuit pieces tossed with spicy pepperoni, gooey mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic Italian seasoning. They placed the mixture in a bundt pan and baked it to golden perfection. As the aroma of baking pizza wafted through the kitchen, they knew they were onto something special.
When the Pizza Monkey Bread was finally pulled from the oven, the friends gathered around, eager to dig in. With each pull, the cheesy, pepperoni-filled bites were met with smiles and happy murmurs. It was a hit! They dipped each piece into a bowl of warm tomato sauce, savoring the blend of flavors and textures.
From that night on, Pizza Monkey Bread became a beloved tradition at their gatherings. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the joy of creating something together and sharing it with those they cared about. And so, this fun and flavorful recipe was passed around, bringing people together one delicious bite at a time.
Ingredients:
Here’s a quick summary of the essential ingredients you’ll need to create delicious Pizza Monkey Bread! For precise measurements and detailed instructions, refer to the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
- Refrigerated Biscuit Dough
- Pepperoni
- Olive Oil
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese
- Italian Seasoning
- Garlic Powder or Minced Garlic
- Optional Garnishes: Oregano, Fresh Basil, Parsley, or other fresh herbs.
Additional Toppings:
Feel free to customize with your favorite pizza toppings! Mushrooms, black olives, cooked sausage, or spinach make excellent additions. If using whole black olives, cut them in half.
- Refrigerator Biscuits: We used homestyle biscuits, but you can also use flaky layers. For a buttery crust, consider butter-flavored biscuits.
- Black Olives: Sliced black olives work well, but if you only have whole olives, simply cut them in half.
- Pepperoni: I cut the pepperoni into quarters for smaller, evenly distributed pieces. If you’re short on time, whole slices work too. Mini-pepperoni or turkey/veggie pepperoni are also good alternatives.
- Parmesan Cheese: Shaved parmesan was used, but grated parmesan can be substituted if that’s what you have.
This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted based on what’s available in your pantry and your personal pizza preferences.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, a bowl of ranch dressing, or other dipping sauces can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Equipment Needed:
- Bundt pan (or similar baking pan)
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife or kitchen scissors (for cutting biscuits)
- Spatula or large spoon (for mixing ingredients)
- Non-stick spray (for greasing the pan)
- Aluminum foil (optional, to prevent over-browning)
- Oven (preheated to 350°F / 175°C)
How to Make Pizza Monkey Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the refrigerator biscuits into quarters.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the biscuit pieces, pepperoni, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Prepare a bundt pan by spraying it with non-stick spray, then add the mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until it reaches a golden brown color. If the biscuits start browning too quickly, cover the pan with aluminum foil.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve alongside warm tomato sauce for dipping.
Preparation and Storage:
- Preparation: Assemble the mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let the mixture come to room temperature before transferring it to the bundt pan.
- Storage: Store leftover Pizza Monkey Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Recipe Variations:
- Veggie Pizza Monkey Bread: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or black olives to the mixture for a veggie-packed version.
- Spicy Monkey Bread: Use spicy pepperoni or add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Monkey Bread: Add extra cheese or a mix of different cheeses like cheddar or provolone.
Tips for the Best Pizza Monkey Bread:
- Even Baking: Ensure the biscuit pieces are evenly coated and spread in the pan to promote even baking.
- Prevent Over-Browning: Cover with aluminum foil if the top starts to get too dark before the center is fully cooked.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the bread cool slightly to make it easier to pull apart and prevent burns.
What to Serve with Pizza Monkey Bread:
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a bowl of warm tomato sauce, marinara, or your favorite pizza sauce.
- Side Salads: A crisp green salad or a Caesar salad complements the cheesy bread.
- Vegetable Sticks: Pair with raw veggies like carrot and celery sticks for a fresh crunch.
When to Serve:
- Appetizers: Perfect for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers.
- Snacks: Great as a fun and satisfying snack during movie nights or family gatherings.
- Lunch or Dinner: Can be served as a unique and filling addition to a meal.
Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe
Equipment
- Bundt pan (or similar baking pan)
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife or kitchen scissors (for cutting biscuits)
- Spatula or large spoon (for mixing ingredients)
- Non-stick spray (for greasing the pan)
- Aluminum foil (optional, to prevent over-browning)
- Oven (preheated to 350°F / 175°C)
Ingredients
- 2 cans of refrigerator biscuits each can around 16.3 oz
- 5 oz pepperoni slices about 2 cups
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese shredded (about 2 cups)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups tomato sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the refrigerator biscuits into quarters.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the biscuit pieces, pepperoni, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Prepare a bundt pan by spraying it with non-stick spray, then add the mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown. If the biscuits begin to brown too quickly, cover the pan with aluminum foil.
- Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with warm tomato sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
If you prefer a spicier kick, try using spicy pepperoni or adding red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Keep an eye on the baking process – covering with foil prevents over-browning while still allowing the bread to cook through.
In conclusion, Pizza Monkey Bread is a fun and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. Its pull-apart, cheesy goodness combines the best of pizza flavors with the irresistible texture of monkey bread. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to fit your taste and pantry supplies. Whether you stick to the classic combination or add your favorite toppings, this dish is sure to be a hit. Serve it with a side of tomato sauce and some fresh herbs for an extra touch, and enjoy the delicious results with family and friends.
