Hey pizza lovers! I’m back with a recipe that’s so good, it might just make you ditch traditional pizza altogether. (Okay, maybe not altogether, but it’s definitely a close contender!)
Get ready for Pizza Monkey Bread, the ultimate pull-apart treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Imagine this: bite-sized pieces of fluffy biscuit dough, coated in garlic butter and Italian herbs, stuffed with pepperoni and two types of cheese, all baked to golden perfection in a bundt pan. It’s like a pizza party in your mouth, and it’s way more fun to eat than a regular pizza!
This recipe is incredibly easy to make, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So grab your ingredients, put on your stretchy pants (you’re gonna need ’em!), and let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Monkey Bread
- Pull-Apart Fun: This bread is meant to be shared! Everyone can grab a piece and enjoy the cheesy, gooey goodness.
- Flavor Explosion: We’re talking pepperoni, mozzarella, parmesan, Italian herbs, garlic… need I say more?
- Easy Peasy: This recipe is so simple, you won’t believe how amazing it tastes.
- Customizable: Don’t like pepperoni? No problem! Swap it out for your favorite pizza toppings.
Ingredients for Pizza Monkey Bread
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible treat:
- Canned Biscuits: Those fluffy, ready-to-bake biscuits you find in the refrigerated section of the grocery store.
- Pepperoni: Because every pizza needs a little pepperoni love.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Lots and lots of it! We want that cheesy, gooey pull-apart action.
- Parmesan Cheese: A little parmesan adds a nice salty, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
- Butter: Melted butter is our magic ingredient for making everything stick together and adding richness.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of delicious herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that gives the bread that classic pizza flavor.
- Garlic Powder and Garlic Salt: We’re going all out on the garlic flavor!
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but if you like a little heat, add a pinch or two.
- Fresh Parsley: For a pop of color and freshness.
- Marinara Sauce: The perfect dipping sauce for this cheesy masterpiece.
Variations
- Meat Lover’s Dream: Add some cooked sausage, bacon, or ham for a meatier monkey bread.
- Veggie Delight: Toss in some chopped veggies like mushrooms, onions, peppers, or olives.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the mixture for some heat.
- Cheese Lover’s Paradise: Try different types of cheese like provolone, cheddar, or even a Mexican blend.
How to Make Pizza Monkey Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grab your bundt pan and give it a good spray with nonstick cooking spray. This will ensure that your monkey bread comes out of the pan easily.
Step 2: Get Those Ingredients Ready
Open those cans of biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. Slice the pepperoni in half so it’s easier to mix with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix It All Up
In a large bowl, combine the biscuit pieces, pepperoni, mozzarella, parmesan, Italian seasoning, melted butter, garlic powder, and garlic salt. Toss everything together until it’s all nicely coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Fill the Bundt Pan
Now, carefully transfer the mixture to the prepared bundt pan. Press it down gently to make sure it fills the pan evenly.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop that bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. To prevent the top from getting too brown, cover the pan with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: It’s Show Time!
Once the monkey bread is baked, carefully invert the bundt pan onto a serving plate. Ta-da! You’ve got a beautiful, pull-apart masterpiece. Garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 7: Dip and Devour!
Serve the pizza monkey bread warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Then, grab a piece (or two, or three…) and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the biscuit pieces have some space to bake evenly.
- Keep an Eye on It: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your monkey bread and adjust the baking time as needed.
- Have Fun!: This recipe is all about having fun in the kitchen. Get creative with your toppings and enjoy the process!
How to Serve
This Pizza Monkey Bread is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it extra special:
- Dipping Sauces: Try serving it with other dipping sauces like garlic butter, ranch dressing, or even pizza sauce.
- Make it a Meal: Serve it alongside a salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Leftovers and Freezing
Leftovers
Store any leftover monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked monkey bread for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of biscuit?
Yes, you can use any type of biscuit you like, but keep in mind that the texture of the monkey bread might be a bit different.
2. Can I make this in a different pan?
Yes, you can use a 9×13 inch baking dish if you don’t have a bundt pan.
3. How can I reheat the monkey bread?
You can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until warmed through.
There you have it! A fun, easy, and delicious recipe that will be a hit with everyone. Enjoy your Pizza Monkey Bread, and happy cooking!