Name: Pizza Monkey Bread: Discover a Delicious Twist Today!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough; 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup of pepperoni slices; 1/2 cup of marinara sauce; 1/4 cup of melted butter; 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

Introduction to Pizza Monkey Bread

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious that everyone will love. That’s where my Pizza Monkey Bread comes in! This fun twist on traditional pizza is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a quick solution for those hectic weeknights. Imagine bite-sized pieces of dough, oozing with cheese and pepperoni, all baked together for a pull-apart treat. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Pizza Monkey Bread

This Pizza Monkey Bread is a game-changer for busy families! It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The delightful combination of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and warm, buttery dough creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a fun dish to share, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family night. You’ll love how quickly it disappears!

Ingredients for Pizza Monkey Bread

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Pizza Monkey Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:

Refrigerated biscuit dough: This is the base of your monkey bread, providing that fluffy texture. You can use any brand you like, or even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The star of the show! Its gooeyness is what makes each bite irresistible. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar for a twist.
Pepperoni slices: These add a savory kick. You can substitute with turkey pepperoni or even veggies for a healthier option.
Marinara sauce: This is the perfect dipping sauce that ties everything together. You can use store-bought or homemade, depending on your time.
Melted butter: This gives the dough a rich flavor and helps it brown beautifully in the oven.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth to your dish. If you don’t have it, a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme works well too.
Garlic powder: This adds a lovely aroma and flavor. Fresh minced garlic can be used for an extra punch!

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious Pizza Monkey Bread!

How to Make Pizza Monkey Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your Pizza Monkey Bread bakes evenly. If you skip this step, you might end up with doughy centers or unevenly cooked bites. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is your best friend!

Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Next, grab your bundt pan and give it a good greasing with cooking spray. This step is essential to prevent your delicious creation from sticking. Make sure to coat every nook and cranny, so when it’s time to serve, your Pizza Monkey Bread slides out effortlessly. No one wants a stuck mess!

Step 3: Cut the Biscuit Dough

Now, take your refrigerated biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. This helps the dough cook evenly and allows for those delightful pull-apart pieces. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors for a clean cut. The smaller pieces will soak up all that cheesy goodness!

Step 4: Mix the Butter and Seasonings

In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is mixed together. This buttery mixture will coat your dough pieces, adding flavor and helping them brown beautifully in the oven. It’s the secret to that irresistible taste!

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza Monkey Bread

Now comes the fun part—assembling your Pizza Monkey Bread! Dip each quarter of biscuit dough into the butter mixture, then layer it with shredded mozzarella and pepperoni. Stack these delicious layers in the greased bundt pan, creating a beautiful tower of flavor. Once you’ve filled the pan, pour marinara sauce over the top for that extra zing. It’s like a pizza party in a pan!

Step 6: Bake the Dish

Pop your bundt pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. A toothpick inserted into the dough should come out clean. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your Pizza Monkey Bread cool for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to remove from the pan. When you’re ready to serve, invert it onto a plate and enjoy it warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping. It’s a delightful treat that everyone will love!

Tips for Success

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—especially the cheese and pepperoni.
Don’t rush the cooling process; it helps the bread hold its shape.
Experiment with different cheeses or toppings to suit your family’s taste.
For a crispy crust, bake a few extra minutes if needed.
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary!

Equipment Needed

Bundt pan: Essential for shaping your Pizza Monkey Bread. If you don’t have one, a regular cake pan works too!
Mixing bowls: You’ll need a couple for mixing the butter and assembling the dough.
Sharp knife or kitchen scissors: Perfect for cutting the biscuit dough into quarters.
Cooking spray: To grease the bundt pan and prevent sticking.

Variations

Veggie Delight: Swap out the pepperoni for your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a healthier twist.
Cheesy Garlic: Add extra garlic powder and a blend of cheeses like cheddar and provolone for a rich, cheesy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for those who love a bit of heat in their pizza.
BBQ Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken and BBQ sauce instead of marinara for a smoky flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the biscuit dough with gluten-free dough to accommodate dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh Salad: Pair your Pizza Monkey Bread with a crisp Caesar or garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic breadsticks for a true Italian feast.
Drinks: Complement with a chilled soda, iced tea, or a glass of red wine for the adults.
Presentation: Serve on a colorful platter with marinara sauce in a small bowl for dipping.

FAQs about Pizza Monkey Bread

Can I make Pizza Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and assemble it in the bundt pan, then cover it and refrigerate for a few hours. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great option for busy days!

What can I use instead of biscuit dough?

If you want to switch things up, you can use pizza dough or even crescent roll dough. Each option will give your Pizza Monkey Bread a unique texture and flavor!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Pizza Monkey Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving!

Can I freeze Pizza Monkey Bread?

Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

What are some good dipping sauces for Pizza Monkey Bread?

While marinara sauce is a classic choice, you can also try ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a fun twist. The options are endless!

Final Thoughts

Making Pizza Monkey Bread is more than just cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments with family and friends. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Each pull-apart piece is a delightful surprise, filled with cheesy goodness and savory flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish brings everyone together. Plus, the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they dig in are priceless. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your culinary adventures, just as it has in mine!

Pizza Monkey Bread: Discover a Delicious Twist Today!

Author: Maria
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Pizza Monkey Bread is a fun and delicious twist on traditional pizza, featuring bite-sized pieces of dough filled with cheese, pepperoni, and marinara sauce, all baked together for a pull-apart treat.

Ingredients

Scale

1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup of pepperoni slices
1/2 cup of marinara sauce
1/4 cup of melted butter
1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a bundt pan with cooking spray.
In a bowl, cut the biscuit dough into quarters.
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Dip each piece of biscuit dough into the butter mixture, then layer with cheese and pepperoni.
Place the layered dough pieces into the bundt pan, pouring marinara sauce over the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Let cool for a few minutes before inverting onto a plate.
Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.