Introduction
Let’s be real—there are few things in life more satisfying than gooey, cheesy comfort food. And when you combine buttery biscuits, melty mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and the classic flavor of pizza into one pull-apart dish? Well, you’ve just discovered your new go-to appetizer: Pizza Monkey Bread.
Imagine your favorite pizza, but in bite-sized pieces, baked together in a golden ring that everyone can pull apart and devour. Sound like something you want at your next party or family night? Thought so. Let’s dig into how to make this crowd-pleasing masterpiece.
1. What Is Pizza Monkey Bread?
Pizza Monkey Bread is a delicious twist on the classic monkey bread, usually known for its sweet cinnamon sugar flavor. In this savory version, we swap out the sugar for pepperoni, cheese, and Italian seasonings—transforming it into a pull-apart pizza explosion that’s perfect for parties or family dinners.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to make with simple store-bought ingredients
Kid-friendly and perfect for picky eaters
Customizable to suit your favorite pizza toppings
Fun to eat, thanks to its pull-apart format
Perfect for sharing at gatherings, game nights, or holidays
3. Essential Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need:
32 ounces refrigerated canned biscuits, cut into quarters
6 ounces pepperoni, sliced
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
⅓ cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon garlic salt
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Marinara sauce (for dipping)
These ingredients come together to create layers of flavor in every bite.
4. The Magic of Refrigerated Canned Biscuits
Think of canned biscuits as the unsung hero of this dish. They’re fluffy, buttery, and the perfect base to soak up all that cheesy, garlicky, herby goodness. Cutting them into quarters allows every piece to get coated and baked evenly—think mini dough pillows of joy.
5. Choosing the Right Cheese
You can’t go wrong with a mix of mozzarella and parmesan. Mozzarella gives you that stringy, melty factor (you know the one), while parmesan adds a salty, nutty punch. Want to switch it up? Try adding a bit of cheddar or provolone for a flavor twist.
6. Adding the Perfect Pepperoni
Pepperoni adds the savory spice that pizza fans love. Slice it into smaller pieces so that it spreads evenly throughout the dough. Want a lighter version? Turkey pepperoni works great too!
7. Mixing It All Together
Combine your biscuit pieces, pepperoni, cheeses, melted butter, and seasonings in a large bowl. Toss it all together until every bite is coated with cheesy, herby, buttery goodness. It should look messy—that’s a good sign.
8. Bundt Pan Basics
A bundt pan gives this bread its signature ring shape, helping it bake evenly and look extra impressive. Spray it generously with non-stick spray so nothing sticks. Don’t have a bundt pan? A loaf pan or round cake pan works too—just watch the bake time.
9. Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray your bundt pan with nonstick spray.
Cut the biscuits into quarters. Slice the pepperoni in half.
Combine biscuits, pepperoni, cheeses, seasonings, garlic powder, and melted butter in a large bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to your bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, covering with foil during the last 10 minutes to avoid over-browning.
Invert the pan onto a plate once baked. Let it rest a few minutes before removing.
Garnish with parsley and serve warm with marinara sauce.
10. Tips for the Best Pizza Monkey Bread
Don’t skip the foil! It keeps the top from getting too dark.
Let it rest before inverting—this helps it stay intact.
Add a little extra butter if the mix looks dry.
Sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like a kick of heat.
11. Dipping Sauce Ideas
While marinara is the classic choice, there are other tasty dips to try:
Ranch dressing
Garlic butter sauce
Cheese sauce
Spicy buffalo dip
12. Serving Suggestions
This dish is a hit anywhere:
Party appetizer
Family dinner side
Game night snack
Movie night treat
Serve it on a platter with a bowl of warm marinara in the center and watch it disappear.
13. Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s what to do:
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or until warm.
Avoid microwaving if you want that crisp edge!
14. Customization Ideas
This recipe is your playground. Try these variations:
Veggie style: Add chopped bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, or onions.
BBQ twist: Swap marinara for BBQ sauce and use shredded chicken.
Hawaiian vibe: Add ham and pineapple chunks.
Cheeseburger version: Ground beef, cheddar, pickles, and ketchup-mustard dip.
15. Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Pizza Monkey Bread isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. It brings people together, fills the room with the aroma of garlic and cheese, and gives everyone an excuse to eat with their hands. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want something fun for dinner, this is the kind of dish that turns casual moments into memorable ones.
Ready to give it a try? One bite and you’ll see why it’s everyone’s favorite pull-apart treat.
FAQs
1. Can I make Pizza Monkey Bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking.
2. What can I use instead of a bundt pan?
A loaf pan or round cake pan works just fine—just keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary.
3. Can I freeze Pizza Monkey Bread?
Absolutely. Bake it first, then cool completely. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until hot.
4. What are the best cheeses to use besides mozzarella and parmesan?
Provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses add great flavor and melt well too.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Totally! Kids love helping to mix the ingredients and, of course, pulling it apart and dipping it.
Let the cheesy goodness begin!
