Pepperoni Mozzarella Monkey Bread Recipe

Savory Pepperoni Mozzarella Monkey Bread Recipe for Fun Gatherings

Culinary magic happens when pepperoni mozzarella monkey bread meets your kitchen creativity.

Cheesy layers promise pure comfort in every single bite.

Pillowy soft dough intertwines with spicy pepperoni bits, creating an irresistible pull-apart treat.

Weeknight dinners suddenly feel like special occasions with this crowd-pleasing sensation.

Melted cheese strings connect crispy edges, tempting everyone around the table.

Weekend gatherings deserve something spectacular like this playful, savory bread.

Pack napkins and prepare for messy, delightful moments of shared enjoyment.

Why Pepperoni & Mozzarella Monkey Bread Steals The Show

  • Customize with Ease: Personalize this monkey bread by adding your favorite pizza toppings like olives or bell peppers, making it a flexible dish that adapts to your taste preferences.
  • Party-Perfect Appetizer: Designed for social gatherings, game nights, or potlucks, this cheesy pepperoni monkey bread serves as a crowd-pleasing starter that everyone can dig into and share.
  • No-Fuss Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe requires minimal cooking skills, allowing both novice and experienced cooks to create a delicious dish without stress.
  • Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Featuring classic pizza flavors kids love, this monkey bread transforms a standard appetizer into an interactive, fun meal that children can help prepare and enjoy.

What You’ll Need For Pepperoni & Mozzarella Monkey Bread

Main Ingredients:

Bread Base:
  • Refrigerated Biscuits: Soft, pre-made dough that serves as the foundation of the monkey bread.
Cheese and Meat:
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy cheese that melts beautifully and adds rich flavor to the dish.
  • Pepperoni: Spicy, savory meat that provides a classic pizza-like taste.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Herbs and spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the monkey bread.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and elevate the taste.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional ingredient that adds a spicy kick to the dish.
Preparation Ingredients:
  • Butter: Melted ingredient that coats the biscuits and adds moisture and richness.
  • Cooking Spray: Used to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal from the pan.
  • Marinara Sauce: Optional dipping sauce that complements the savory monkey bread.

How To Make Pepperoni & Mozzarella Monkey Bread

Step 1: Prepare Oven And Pan

Crank up your oven to 350°F. Generously coat a bundt pan or round cake pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Chop Biscuits

Crack open the biscuit cans and slice each biscuit into four equal quarters. This helps create bite-sized pieces that are perfect for sharing.

Step 3: Season Biscuit Pieces

In a spacious mixing bowl, toss the biscuit quarters with:
  • Melted butter
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Ensure every biscuit piece gets completely coated with the flavorful mixture.

Step 4: Create First Layer

Spread half of the seasoned biscuit pieces into the greased pan. Sprinkle generously with:
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Pepperoni slices

Step 5: Add Final Layer

Top with remaining biscuit pieces, then cover with the rest of the:
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Pepperoni slices

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and use a toothpick to check that the center is fully cooked.

Step 7: Serve And Plate

Allow the monkey bread to cool for a few minutes. Carefully flip onto a serving plate so the cheesy top is visible.

Step 8: Enjoy With Dipping Sauce

Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side. Dig into this delicious, cheesy treat!

Pro Tips: Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like olives or bell peppers. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for the best taste and texture.

Quick Tips For Pepperoni & Mozzarella Monkey Bread

  • Slice Biscuits Evenly: Cut each biscuit into uniform quarters to ensure consistent cooking and easy sharing.
  • Boost Flavor Depth: Mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes thoroughly with melted butter for maximum taste absorption.
  • Layer Strategically: Alternate biscuit pieces with cheese and pepperoni to create delicious pockets of flavor in every bite.
  • Check Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick to test the center, ensuring the bread is fully cooked without becoming dry.
  • Experiment with Add-Ins: Swap or add ingredients like olives, bell peppers, or different cheeses to personalize your monkey bread.

Ways To Mix Up Pepperoni & Mozzarella Monkey Bread

  • Vegetarian Veggie Lovers: Replace pepperoni with chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a meat-free version that's packed with colorful vegetables and flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap regular biscuits with gluten-free biscuit dough, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this cheesy treat without worry.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Popper: Add diced jalapeños and swap mozzarella with cream cheese for a zesty, spicy alternative that brings extra heat to the classic recipe.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Use feta cheese instead of mozzarella, add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Greek-inspired monkey bread that transports your taste buds.

Top Pairings For Pepperoni & Mozzarella Monkey Bread

  • Pair with Zesty Marinara Dip: Enhance the pepperoni and cheese flavors with a tangy marinara sauce that complements the bread's savory profile.
  • Create a Crisp Beer Companion: Select a light lager or hoppy IPA to cut through the richness of the cheese and balance the spicy pepperoni notes.
  • Serve with Fresh Herb Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a refreshing counterpoint to the dense, cheesy monkey bread.
  • Complement with Chilled White Wine: Choose a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc that offers a bright, acidic contrast to the rich, meaty appetizer.

Keep Pepperoni & Mozzarella Monkey Bread Tasty

  • Seal leftovers in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss.
  • Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 15-20 second intervals, checking to prevent overcooking. Stop when warm and cheese is melted.
  • Preheat oven to 325°F. Spread monkey bread pieces on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 8-10 minutes until heated through.
  • Arrange pieces on a small tray, heat at 325°F for 5-7 minutes. Perfect for smaller portions and maintaining crispy edges.

Pepperoni & Mozzarella Monkey Bread Q&A

  • Is monkey bread always a sweet dish?

No, this recipe proves monkey bread can be savory! This pepperoni and mozzarella version turns the classic sweet treat into a delicious appetizer or party snack perfect for game day or casual gatherings.

  • Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the monkey bread and refrigerate it before baking. Just assemble everything, cover tightly, and bake when ready. This makes it great for meal prep or entertaining.

  • What kind of biscuits work best for this recipe?

Canned refrigerated biscuits are perfect. Look for the regular-sized tubes, not the extra-large or mini versions. These biscuits create the perfect texture and make preparation super easy.

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Pepperoni Mozzarella Monkey Bread Recipe

Pepperoni Mozzarella Monkey Bread Recipe


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4.8 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Irresistible Pepperoni Mozzarella Monkey Bread combines cheesy, savory layers that melt together in a perfect pull-apart treat. Shareable and crowd-pleasing, you’ll devour this crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings comfort and excitement to any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (16 ounces each) refrigerated biscuits
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup pepperoni slices

Seasonings and Flavoring:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and thoroughly coat a bundt pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Slice each biscuit into four equal triangular pieces to create bite-sized portions for easy pulling and sharing.
  3. Create a flavor mixture by combining melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Gently fold quartered biscuit pieces into the seasoned butter mixture, ensuring each piece is completely coated with the aromatic blend.
  5. Construct the first layer in the prepared pan by spreading half of the buttered biscuit pieces across the bottom.
  6. Distribute half of the mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices evenly over the initial biscuit layer, creating a robust flavor foundation.
  7. Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining biscuit pieces, then topping with the final portion of mozzarella cheese and pepperoni.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the surface turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the monkey bread to rest for 3-5 minutes after removing from the oven to help it set.
  10. Carefully invert the bread onto a serving plate, revealing the cheesy, pepperoni-laden surface.
  11. Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping, encouraging guests to pull apart the bread and enjoy its warm, gooey texture.

Notes

  • Customize your monkey bread by adding favorite pizza toppings like olives, bell peppers, or cooked sausage for extra flavor variety.
  • Use pre-shredded mozzarella to save time, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and provides richer taste.
  • Watch baking time closely to prevent overcooking; golden brown edges indicate perfectly cooked monkey bread.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute refrigerated biscuit dough with gluten-free biscuit mix or cauliflower-based dough.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 760 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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