Pull Apart Pizza Bread Recipe 2024

When it comes to comfort food, I have a real soft spot for pizza. Who doesn’t love that melty cheese, tangy sauce, and crispy crust? A few years back, I discovered a delightful twist that took my love for pizza to a new level: Pull Apart Pizza Bread recipe. This dish is not just tasty but also a fun way to enjoy pizza in a different format. It’s gooey, cheesy, and perfect for sharing, making it a hit at gatherings or simply for a cozy night in.

Ingredients for Pull Apart Pizza Bread Recipe

Dough Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
¾ cup milk
¼ cup olive oil

Filling Ingredients:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup pepperoni slices (or your favorite toppings)
½ cup marinara sauce for dipping
½ cup chopped bell peppers
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Topping Ingredients:

2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Pull Apart Pizza Bread Recipe

With the ingredients ready, the exciting part is making this delicious dish. Here’s how to do it without any fuss.

Prep the Dough

First things first, let’s make the dough. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Then, add the milk and olive oil. Stir until combined.

Once the dough comes together, knead it for just a few minutes on a floured surface. You want a soft and smooth dough, nothing complicated.

Roll Out the Dough

Next, roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Using a rolling pin makes this part easy and fun.

Add the Toppings

Spread the mozzarella cheese evenly across the dough. Then, place your pepperoni, bell peppers, and Italian seasoning on top. If you want, feel free to add mushrooms, olives, or any other favorite toppings.

Cut and Layer

Now, here comes the fun part. Cut the dough into strips of about 2 inches wide. Stack the strips on top of each other. Then, cut them into smaller pieces, about 2 inches long. This method will allow the bread to pull apart easily.

Arrange in the Pan

Take a loaf pan and drizzle some melted butter on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then, place the stacked dough pieces in the pan, cut side up.

Bake the Pull Apart Pizza Bread

Cover the pan with a towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This gives the dough a chance to rise. After that, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes.

Brushing with Butter

When your pizza bread is golden brown, take it out of the oven. Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible.

Let It Cool

Before serving, let the bread cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle in and makes it easier to pull apart.

Tips for the Best Pull Apart Pizza Bread

Making Pull Apart Pizza Bread is easy, but a few tips can make it even better.

Customize Your Toppings

I love experimenting with different toppings. You can use different types of cheese, meats, or veggies to suit your taste.

Serve it with Dipping Sauce

Marinara sauce is always a great choice for dipping. However, you can also make a garlic butter sauce or ranch dressing for a tasty twist.

Add Fresh Herbs

Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano add a nice touch. Sprinkle some over the warm bread right before serving for extra flavor.

Experiment with Cheeses

While mozzarella is the classic choice, mixing in some cheddar or provolone adds depth to the flavor.

Why Pull Apart Pizza Bread is Perfect for Any Occasion

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this magical dish for various occasions. Here’s why it’s my go-to recipe.

Great for Gatherings

Whenever I have friends or family over, Pull Apart Pizza Bread is always on the menu. It encourages sharing and conversation.

Perfect for Parties

From game nights to birthday parties, it’s a crowd-pleaser. People love pulling apart their section and enjoying it.

Easy to Make Ahead

If you’re planning a busy day, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Simply cover and store it in the fridge.

Storing Leftover Pull Apart Pizza Bread

If you have any leftovers, no need to worry! Here’s how to store and reheat them.

Storing

Let the bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps regain that fresh-baked goodness.

Nutrition Insights

While Pull Apart Pizza Bread is comfort food, it’s good to be mindful of nutrition.

Balanced Meal

You can turn this dish into a more balanced meal by adding a side salad. It complements the cheesy flavors perfectly and adds some crunch.

Serving Size

This recipe makes about 8 servings, so it’s easy to share. However, be careful with portions if you are watching your intake.