Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bread: The Ultimate Homemade Pizza Roll Recipe
If your heart beats for the classic combination of savory pepperoni, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly baked pizza dough, then prepare to meet your new obsession: Pepperoni Pizza Bread! This isn’t just any ordinary snack; it’s a delightful culinary creation that captures all the beloved flavors of a pepperoni pizza in a convenient, shareable bread format. Imagine golden-brown, aromatic pizza dough generously filled with layers of spicy pepperoni and melted cheese, seasoned with Italian herbs, and then baked to perfection. It’s a game-changer for pizza night, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for parties, and a surprisingly satisfying main course when paired with a fresh salad.
Friends, get ready to add a fantastic new recipe to your collection – one that might just become an instant favorite from the very first bite. This easy-to-follow recipe results in incredible finger food, perfect for casual gatherings, lively game days, or even a cozy family movie night. But don’t let its snack-like appearance fool you; it’s hearty enough to serve as a filling and comforting main meal. Just imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as this cheesy delight bakes, promising a culinary experience that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Pepperoni Pizza Bread. The name itself evokes warmth and deliciousness, doesn’t it? It perfectly combines two of my absolute favorite food categories into one spectacular dish! This brand-new recipe arrives just in time for weekend festivities or whenever a serious craving for something satisfying hits. We’re already planning to enjoy this again for our watch party on Saturday night, and I absolutely cannot wait to share it with friends and family!
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS PEPPERONI STUFFED BREAD
There are so many reasons to adore this pepperoni bread, made effortlessly with convenient refrigerated pizza dough. It’s the quintessential appetizer, tailgating snack, or even a quick and easy dinner solution. What makes it truly special is its simplicity: using readily available premade pizza dough, along with a handful of other common ingredients, this pepperoni pizza bread comes together with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. You get all the robust, savory taste of a classic pepperoni pizza without the elaborate steps of building an entire pie.
Beyond its ease, its versatility is unmatched. While it shines as a party snack, you certainly don’t need a special occasion to whip it up. We frequently enjoy it for dinner, often alongside a crisp, light salad for a perfectly balanced meal. The best part? Leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so! We simply warm them up in the air fryer the next day for a quick and satisfying lunch, enjoying that irresistible cheesy, peppery goodness all over again. It’s a fantastic way to stretch a meal and enjoy a taste of comfort whenever you please.
If you’re as passionate about pepperoni as I am, you’ll be thrilled to know I’ve got a treasure trove of other fantastic recipes that celebrate this beloved ingredient. Don’t miss out on these other delightful creations: explore my recipe for Homemade Detroit Style Pizza for a truly authentic experience, dive into the creamy indulgence of Pizza Dip, or enjoy the comforting flavors of Pizza Pasta. Each offers a unique way to savor that incredible pepperoni taste!
INGREDIENTS NEEDED FOR PEPPERONI BREAD
Crafting this delectable pepperoni bread requires only a few accessible ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or can easily pick up at any grocery store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward components coming together to create something truly extraordinary. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some helpful notes and substitution ideas:
- Refrigerated Pizza Dough: This is the secret to a quick and easy preparation! A 13.8-ounce container is ideal. It saves time on mixing and rising. If you prefer, you can certainly substitute frozen pizza dough or even frozen bread dough – just be sure to thaw it completely and bring it to room temperature before rolling it out for best results. For those who love baking from scratch, homemade pizza dough would also work wonderfully, lending an even more artisanal touch to your pepperoni bread.
- Pepperoni Slices: The star of the show! A 6-ounce package of pre-sliced pepperoni is perfect for convenience. You can opt for classic mild pepperoni, or if you like a little extra kick, look for spicy varieties. You can also buy a stick of pepperoni and slice it yourself to your desired thickness, which can sometimes enhance the flavor and texture.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Eight ounces of mozzarella provides that irresistible, melty, cheesy goodness. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, for the best melting quality and flavor, I highly recommend buying a block of whole milk mozzarella and shredding it yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can slightly alter their melting properties. Check out my article on why you should grate your own cheese for more insights!
- Dried Oregano & Basil: These classic Italian herbs are essential for that authentic pizza flavor. One teaspoon of each dried herb is sufficient to infuse the bread with aromatic depth. If you have fresh herbs on hand, you can certainly use them; typically, you’ll need about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried (so, 1 tablespoon of fresh for 1 teaspoon dried). Alternatively, 2 teaspoons of a good quality Italian seasoning blend would be a perfect substitute for both.
- Garlic Powder: A teaspoon of garlic powder adds a foundational savory note that complements the pepperoni and cheese beautifully. It’s an easy way to get consistent garlic flavor throughout. If you prefer fresh garlic, you can use one finely minced clove in place of ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, adjusting to your taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat and a subtle spicy zing, add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, depending on your preferred level of spice. If you don’t have red pepper flakes, ground cayenne pepper can be substituted, but use about half the amount (⅛ to ¼ teaspoon) as cayenne is generally more potent.
- Egg: One large egg forms the base of our egg wash.
- Water: One tablespoon of water is mixed with the egg to create the perfect egg wash consistency, which helps give the crust a beautiful golden sheen and crispy texture.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking adds an extra layer of salty, nutty, cheesy flavor and contributes to a wonderfully golden crust. Grated or finely shredded Parmesan works best here.
- Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce: While the pepperoni bread is fantastic on its own, it truly shines when served with a side of warm marinara or your favorite pizza sauce for dipping. You can use your go-to jarred sauce for convenience, or elevate the experience with a batch of my delicious homemade marinara sauce.
HOW TO MAKE THIS PEPPERONI BREAD RECIPE
Creating this irresistible Pepperoni Pizza Bread is a straightforward process, even for novice bakers. Follow these simple steps to bring this cheesy, savory delight to life in your own kitchen:
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). While the oven warms up, lightly spray a small pie plate or a round baking dish with non-stick cooking spray, or grease it with a thin layer of olive oil. This will prevent your pepperoni bread from sticking and help it achieve a beautifully even bake. Set the prepared dish aside.
Step 2: Make the Egg Wash. In a small bowl, whisk together one large egg and one tablespoon of water until well combined. This is your egg wash, a magical mixture that will give your pepperoni bread a gorgeous golden-brown crust and a subtle sheen. Set this aside for later use.
Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Dough. Unroll your refrigerated pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface or, even better, a silicone pastry mat. Using a rolling pin, gently roll the dough out into an even rectangular shape. Aim for a thickness of no more than about ¼ inch. A thin dough ensures a crispy crust and allows the flavors of the fillings to shine without being overwhelmed by too much bread.
Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash. Lightly brush the entire surface of the rolled-out pizza dough with a portion of your prepared egg wash. This acts as a ‘glue’ for the spices and helps create a barrier that prevents the dough from getting soggy from the fillings.
Step 5: Season the Dough. In a separate small bowl, mix together the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Evenly sprinkle this aromatic blend of herbs and spices over the egg-washed dough. This ensures every bite of your pepperoni bread is infused with that classic Italian pizza flavor.
Step 6: Layer the Pepperoni and Mozzarella. Carefully arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the seasoned dough, making sure to leave about a ½-inch border clear around all the edges. This border is crucial for sealing the dough later. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pepperoni, again observing that ½-inch clear border around the edges. This layering ensures a balanced distribution of fillings in every slice.
Step 7: Roll Up the Dough. Starting from one of the long sides, carefully and tightly roll the dough up lengthwise, much like you would a jelly roll. Ensure the pepperoni and cheese remain tucked inside as you roll. A tight roll helps create those beautiful spirals of filling once baked and sliced.
Step 8: Seal the Edges. Once rolled, pinch the ends of the dough firmly closed to prevent any filling from escaping during baking. Use a bit of the remaining egg wash to help seal the seam along the entire length of the roll, ensuring a neat and secure package.
Step 9: Coil and Place in Pie Plate. Now, beginning at one end of your pepperoni roll, gently coil the dough into a spiral shape. This creates a visually appealing presentation and allows for even baking. Carefully transfer the coiled dough into your prepared pie plate. If you used a pastry mat, you’ll find it incredibly handy for lifting and placing the coiled dough without it losing its shape!
Step 10: Final Touches Before Baking. To finish, brush the outside of the coiled dough with more of the remaining egg wash. This will ensure a gorgeously browned and slightly crisp exterior. Then, lightly sprinkle the top with a pinch of extra garlic powder and a generous dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. These final seasonings will add depth of flavor and a beautiful golden crust.
Step 11: Bake to Golden Perfection. Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from getting too dark; you want a beautiful golden-brown color. The pepperoni roll is done when the crust is golden, the cheese is bubbling and melted, and the kitchen is filled with an irresistible aroma.
Step 12: Rest and Serve. Once baked, remove the pepperoni bread from the oven and let it rest in the pie plate for about 5 minutes before cutting into it. This brief resting period allows the cheese to set slightly, making for cleaner slices and preventing all the delicious fillings from oozing out. Slice it into wedges or thick strips and serve hot with a side of your favorite marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. Enjoy every savory, cheesy bite!
LOVE IT? PIN IT!
If you’re as thrilled about this pepperoni pizza bread recipe as I am, make sure you save it for future culinary adventures! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever that pizza craving strikes!
Aunt Julie’s Pepperoni Bread: A Freaky Friday Discovery
While I’m thrilled to share this amazing recipe with you today, I can’t take all the credit for its genius! A huge thank you goes to Aunt Julie for the original concept and to her wonderful niece, Chrissie, from Off the Eaten Path, for graciously sharing it with me! This particular recipe is part of a fun and collaborative event called Freaky Friday – a tradition I’ve had the pleasure of hosting for many years.
For those unfamiliar, Freaky Friday is a unique blog hop where a group of us food blogger friends secretly select a recipe from an assigned blog and then all reveal our chosen creations on the same day, at the same time. Today is that exciting day! My assigned blog for this round was Off the Eaten Path, skillfully hosted by Chrissie. Chrissie describes herself as a passionate pizza and sushi lover, a connoisseur of craft beer and red wine, an avid restaurant explorer and traveler, and of course, a talented home cook. Her culinary journey began after moving to Charlotte in 2013, inspiring her to launch her blog as a platform to share her deep love for food and writing. If that wasn’t impressive enough, Chrissie is also the proud author of her own cookbook, “Stunning Spreads: Entertaining with Cheese and Charcuterie Boards,” showcasing her expertise in creating beautiful and delicious food presentations.
Discovering Delights on Off the Eaten Path Blog
When I delved into Chrissie’s vibrant site, searching for the perfect recipe to share for our fall edition of Freaky Friday, I found myself with a delightful dilemma, having narrowed my choices down to four equally appealing options. Ultimately, the Pepperoni Pizza Bread won my heart, but it was tough competition! The other tempting recipes included her refreshing Sunday Simple Guacamole recipe, a decadent Salted Caramel Apple Pie, and her comforting Crockpot Creamy Tomato Soup. All three of these exuded serious fall vibes, but with tailgating season in full swing and a strong craving for savory comfort, the pepperoni bread emerged as the clear winner!
I highly encourage you to learn more about Chrissie and explore the full spectrum of her incredible recipes on her blog. You’re sure to find many more favorites there!
FAQs About this Recipe
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this delicious pepperoni bread:
Is pepperoni bread the same as stromboli? Pepperoni bread and stromboli are indeed very similar, sharing many core elements that make them so appealing. Both typically utilize pizza dough and are filled with ingredients, notably without a sauce in the filling itself. The primary distinction between stromboli and this pepperoni pizza bread recipe lies in their final shape and baking method. Stromboli is traditionally shaped into a cylindrical log and baked on a flat baking pan. Our pepperoni pizza bread, however, is coiled into a spiral and baked in a pie pan, giving it a unique presentation and a slightly different texture on the outside. Historically, stromboli is considered an Italian-American invention, with its roots tracing back to Philadelphia.
Can I use bread dough instead of pizza dough? Absolutely, yes! You can easily substitute refrigerated or frozen bread dough in place of pizza dough for this recipe. If you’re using frozen dough, remember that it’s crucial to defrost it completely before you begin. Regardless of whether you choose pizza dough or bread dough, the best practice is to bring it to room temperature before attempting to roll it out. Dough that is too cold will be stiff and difficult to work with, making it prone to tearing.
SUBSTITUTIONS WHEN MAKING PEPPERONI PIZZA BREAD
One of the joys of cooking is the flexibility to adapt recipes to your preferences or what you have on hand. This pepperoni pizza bread recipe is wonderfully forgiving and allows for several delicious substitutions:
- Refrigerated Pizza Dough: As mentioned, frozen pizza dough or frozen bread dough can be used. Just ensure it’s fully defrosted and at room temperature before rolling. If you have the time and enjoy a more hands-on approach, a homemade pizza dough recipe would be an excellent, flavorful alternative.
- Pepperoni: Feel free to customize the protein! Cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, diced Canadian bacon, or even seasoned ground beef would be delicious alternatives. For a lighter option, turkey pepperoni works perfectly. You could also mix in some finely diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms (sautéed first to remove excess moisture) for added vegetables.
- Mozzarella Cheese: While mozzarella is ideal for its melty texture, other mild white cheeses can be substituted. Provolone, Muenster, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would work well. Burrata, while more delicate, could also be used for a creamier interior if carefully placed.
- Oregano & Basil: If you don’t have individual dried herbs, a blend of 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning will work beautifully, as it typically contains both oregano and basil, plus other complementary herbs. For fresh herbs, remember the general rule of thumb: use 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs to achieve a similar flavor intensity.
- Garlic Powder: Fresh garlic can absolutely replace garlic powder. One finely minced clove of fresh garlic is roughly equivalent to ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder. Adjust based on your love for garlic!
- Red Pepper Flakes: For alternative heat sources, ground cayenne pepper is a good substitute, originating from the same pepper family. However, cayenne is often more potent, so use approximately ¼ teaspoon of cayenne to achieve a similar heat level as ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Smoked paprika can also add a subtle warmth and smoky depth.
- Egg Wash: If you can’t use egg or don’t have any, common substitutes for an egg wash that still provide a nice golden finish include brushing the dough with milk, cream, melted butter, or a little olive oil. Each will offer a slightly different finish in terms of shine and browning.
- Parmesan Cheese: For a different nutty, salty flavor profile, consider substituting Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheeses for Parmesan. Both offer robust, delicious notes that pair well with pepperoni and Italian herbs.
- Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce: The dipping sauce is all about personal preference! Feel free to use your favorite store-bought jarred sauce for ultimate convenience, or embark on a delicious journey by making my acclaimed homemade marinara sauce recipe for an unforgettable fresh taste.
TIPS AND TRICKS FOR PERFECT PEPPERONI PIZZA BREAD
To ensure your pepperoni pizza bread turns out perfectly delicious every time, here are some invaluable tips and tricks:
- Bring Dough to Room Temperature: This is a crucial step for easy handling! Always allow your refrigerated or thawed dough to come to room temperature (about 15-30 minutes) before attempting to roll it out. Warm dough is much more pliable; the glutens relax, making it easier to stretch without tearing and resulting in a more even, tender crust.
- Don’t Overfill: While tempting to load up on fillings, be mindful not to overstuff your dough. Too much filling can make the dough difficult to roll, increase the chances of tearing, and potentially lead to a soggy center. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best balance.
- Ensure a Tight Roll: When rolling up the dough, try to make it as tight as possible. A tight roll ensures that the pepperoni and cheese are evenly distributed in beautiful spirals, and it helps the bread hold its shape during baking.
- Sealing the Seam: Pay extra attention to pinching the seam and ends of the dough shut. A good seal prevents the cheese from oozing out excessively during baking, keeping your pepperoni bread neat and all the deliciousness contained. The egg wash acts as a great adhesive.
- Storage for Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftover pepperoni bread (a rare occurrence!), it stores beautifully. Keep it in an airtight container or a resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in foil, then place it in a resealable freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for 1-2 months. This makes it perfect for meal prep or quick snacks! It’s also delicious crumbled into a salad, much like my Little King Hoagie Salad.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheating your leftover pizza bread is simple. For a quick warm-up, individual slices can be heated in the microwave for about 1 minute. For a crispier crust, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly. An air fryer is also an excellent option for achieving a crispy exterior in about 5-8 minutes at 350°F.
- Serving Suggestions: This cheesy pizza bread is incredibly versatile. It makes an excellent light dinner when paired with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad would complement its rich flavors perfectly. For an appetizer, serve it alongside a charcuterie board or a variety of other dips.
More Ways to Love Pizza
If your household is anything like mine, the love for pizza runs deep and knows no bounds! Beyond this fantastic pepperoni bread, there are countless delicious ways to enjoy the iconic flavors of pizza. If you’re looking to explore more pizza-inspired creations, here are some of our absolute favorites that I highly recommend trying:
- Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese (pictured above) – A comforting fusion of two classic comfort foods, delivering cheesy, peppery bliss in every bite.
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza – For those who crave a spicy kick, this pizza combines zesty buffalo chicken with creamy cheese on a crispy crust.
- Spinach Artichoke Pizza – A rich and creamy option featuring the beloved flavors of spinach and artichoke dip, transformed into a delightful pizza topping.
- Chicken Pesto Pizza – A fresh and vibrant pizza experience with savory chicken and aromatic pesto sauce.
- Reuben Pizza – An unexpected but incredibly delicious twist, bringing the iconic flavors of a Reuben sandwich to a pizza.
- Dorothy’s Pizza Pockets – Perfect for individual servings, these pockets are packed with all your favorite pizza fillings, ideal for lunches or quick dinners.
See all of our 2022 Freaky Friday Fall Edition Recipes
Before you go, take a moment to peek at all the other amazing fall recipes created by my talented food blogger friends during this round of Freaky Friday!
- An Affair from the Heart – Pepperoni Pizza Bread (that’s me!)
- Aunt Bee’s Recipes – Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- The Culinary Compass – Butternut Squash Soup with Coconut Milk
- Devour Dinner – Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice
- Family Around the Table – White Chocolate Pumpkin Martini
- Feast + West – Bourbon Caramel Sauce
- Fresh April Flours – Butterfinger Poke Cake
- Home Cooked Harvest – Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes
- Hostess at Heart – The BEST Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- Kathryn’s Kitchen Blog – Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Life Currents – French Onion Bruschetta
- Off the Eaten Path – Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
- The Speckled Palate – German Pancake
- Sue Bee Homemaker – Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
- Take Two Tapas – Crockpot Pizza Dip
- The Wimpy Vegetarian – Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
See ALL of my past Freaky Friday recipes
Craving the satisfying taste of pepperoni pizza? Look no further than this incredible pepperoni cheese bread to perfectly fulfill that desire. This recipe is not only simple to execute but also incredibly versatile, making it an ideal choice for a myriad of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With its inviting aroma, cheesy interior, and perfectly baked crust, it promises to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Go ahead, give it a try – your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy every delicious bite!
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Print Recipe
Pepperoni Pizza Bread
Equipment
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Large Silicone Pastry Mat
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KitchenAid Gourmet Rolling Pin, One Size, Red
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Ceramic Pie Dish, 10-Inch
Ingredients
- 1 13.8 ounce container refrigerated pizza dough
- 6 ounce package pepperoni slices
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes depending on how spicy you like things
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- grated parmesan cheese
- Marinara or pizza sauce for serving
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a pie plate with non-stick cooking spray or grease with a thin layer of olive oil.
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Whisk egg and water together.
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Mix together oregano, basil, garlic powder and red pepper flakes.
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Roll out pizza dough into a large rectangle using a rolling pin on a lightly floured surface or on a silicone pastry mat. The dough should be pretty thin, less than ¼ inch thick.
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Brush dough with egg wash.
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Sprinkle spice mix evenly across the dough.
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Layer pepperoni slices and mozzarella cheese evenly across the dough, leaving about a ¼ to ½ inch border along all four sides.
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Slowly and carefully, tightly roll up the dough jellyroll style.
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Pinch the ends of the pepperoni roll closed and use a bit of egg wash to seal the seam across the entire roll.
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Coil pepperoni bread, and place it in the prepared pie plate.
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Brush the top with egg wash.
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Give a light sprinkle of garlic powder and oregano, and dust the top with grated parmesan cheese.
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Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Let stand for a few minutes before cutting and serving it hot with a side of pizza sauce for dipping.