If you love the irresistible pull-apart goodness of monkey bread but crave the savory flavors of your favorite pizza, then you have to try this Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe. Imagine cheesy, pepperoni-studded dough bites baked to golden perfection, bursting with herbs and spices, and all served with warm marinara for dipping. It’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy pizza that’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or whenever you need a comforting treat. This recipe is a showstopper that’ll have everyone reaching for another piece, and trust me, once you dive into this Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe, it’ll become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward your delicious pizza monkey bread. Each component plays a key role: from the dough giving the structure and chewiness, to the blend of cheeses adding irresistible gooeyness and flavor, to the seasonings that bring that classic pizzeria vibe right to your home bake.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough (or pizza dough): Provides that soft, pillowy base that’s perfect for pull-apart bread.
- Mini pepperoni (or toppings of choice): Adds savory bursts of meaty goodness; feel free to swap with olives, sausage, or mushrooms.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Classic melty cheese that ties every bite together with stringy, cheesy bliss.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella beautifully.
- Dried oregano: A must-have herb for that signature pizza taste.
- Garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth to every bite.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat to kick things up if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Marinara sauce: Perfect for dipping and adds a tangy tomato punch.
- Melted butter and olive oil: These fats infuse the bread with richness and help achieve that golden crust.
- Fresh basil (optional): Adds a bright, herbaceous finishing touch when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and prepare your pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a bundt pan or a 9×9-inch baking dish thoroughly with non-stick spray or butter—that way, your pizza monkey bread will release effortlessly after baking, showing off its perfect pull-apart shape.
Step 2: Prepare the dough
Open the cans of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. If you’re using pizza dough, simply cut it into bite-size pieces. These little dough bites are the foundation for your cheesy, flavorful layers.
Step 3: Combine all the delicious ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the dough pieces, mini pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if you want a hint of spice. Mixing evenly ensures every piece is coated with cheesy, herby goodness, so every bite bursts with flavor—even the center ones!
Step 4: Layer the dough
Next, begin layering the coated dough mixture into your prepared pan. Spread everything evenly and fill the pan with these irresistible bites. This step is all about building a gooey, layered masterpiece that will bake into golden perfection.
Step 5: Add butter and olive oil
Pour the melted butter and olive oil all over the dough in the pan. This simple step infuses the bread with extra richness and moisture while helping the crust develop a beautiful golden color as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake to golden, cheesy perfection
Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the bread turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted throughout. A quick toothpick test in the center will tell you if it’s done—the toothpick should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool, flip, and serve
Allow the pizza monkey bread to cool for about 5 minutes before flipping it out onto a serving plate. This little wait helps everything set just enough so it holds together beautifully. Serve it immediately with warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping and a sprinkle of fresh basil if you like an herbal burst with each pull-apart piece.
How to Serve Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your pizza monkey bread to the next level. Try sprinkling chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a silky finish, and a dusting of Parmesan cheese right before serving delivers an extra cheesy kick that everyone will adore.
Side Dishes
Pair this cheesy delight with simple, fresh sides to balance the rich flavors. A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of mixed olives can brighten the meal. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also complement the hearty nature of the pizza monkey bread, keeping the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
This recipe shines at parties or casual gatherings. Serve the pizza monkey bread as a centerpiece on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small cups of different dipping sauces, like garlic ranch or spicy marinara, so guests can mix and match their favorites. You can also portion it into mini bundt pans for individual servings that are perfect for brunch or game-day snacks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and let’s be honest, that might be rare), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining their cheesy, flavorful charm without drying out.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Wrap the cooled pizza monkey bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices of pizza monkey bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes to restore that fresh-baked warmth and crispiness. Microwaving works too for quicker reheats but may sacrifice some of the original texture and chew.
FAQs
Can I customize the toppings in this Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out mini pepperoni for your favorite pizza toppings like sausage, olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just be sure the toppings are bite-sized for easy layering and even baking.
Is biscuit dough the best choice, or can I use homemade pizza dough?
Both options work wonderfully. Biscuit dough is convenient and yields a soft, flaky texture, while homemade pizza dough offers more chew and can be customized for flavor. Either way, cutting the dough into small pieces is key to the pull-apart effect.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free biscuit dough or pizza dough alternative, and ensure the shredded cheeses and toppings are gluten-free to keep this delightful treat safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I prepare Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the dough mixture and place it in the pan, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before popping it in the oven for even cooking.
What’s the best dipping sauce for this Pizza Monkey Bread?
Traditional marinara sauce is a classic choice and pairs beautifully, but you can also try garlic butter, ranch, or spicy arrabbiata sauce for different flavor experiences with every pull-apart bite.
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe is pure, gooey, cheesy joy all rolled into one easy-to-make bite-sized feast. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or a casual night in, it’s guaranteed to please every pizza lover’s palate. Get ready to savor the perfect combo of pizza flavors and playful fun—give this recipe a try and watch it disappear quickly at your next meal!
Print
Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Pizza Monkey Bread is a fun and delicious twist on traditional monkey bread, combining bite-sized pieces of dough with mini pepperoni, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all seasoned with oregano, garlic powder, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Baked until golden and served with marinara sauce for dipping, it makes a perfect appetizer or party snack that’s easy to share and enjoy.
Ingredients
Dough and Cheese
- 2 cans (16 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough or pizza dough
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Toppings and Seasonings
- 1 cup mini pepperoni (or any toppings of choice like sausage, olives, or mushrooms)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Others
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a bundt pan or a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the dough: Open the biscuit dough cans and cut each biscuit into quarters. If using pizza dough, cut it into bite-sized pieces suitable for monkey bread.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the dough pieces with mini pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss well to ensure the dough pieces are evenly coated with cheese and seasonings.
- Layer the dough: Arrange the dough mixture evenly into the prepared bundt pan, layering as you go to create a well-packed bread.
- Add butter and oil: Pour the melted butter and olive oil evenly over the dough in the pan to add moisture and enhance the flavor.
- Bake: Bake the monkey bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pizza monkey bread to cool for 5 minutes before carefully flipping it out of the bundt pan. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired.
Notes
- You can customize the toppings by adding sausage, olives, mushrooms, or your favorite pizza ingredients.
- Use pizza dough as a substitute for biscuit dough for a more traditional pizza flavor.
- If you prefer less spicy, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Ensure the bundt pan is well-greased to prevent sticking and help with easy removal.
- Serve immediately for the best cheesy, gooey texture.
