Savory Pepperoni Loaf

Easy Pepperoni Bread Recipe: Your Ultimate Guide to a Savory Snack & Appetizer

Prepare to discover your new favorite go-to for any occasion with this incredible **Pepperoni Bread recipe**! Imagine tender, golden-brown bread, generously stuffed with spicy pepperoni and gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a delightful fusion of pizza and classic bread, creating an unforgettable savory experience that’s perfect as an appetizer, a satisfying snack, or even a super easy weeknight dinner. Starting with convenient store-bought bread dough, you’ll layer it with your favorite pepperoni and cheese, brush it with an egg wash for that perfect golden crust, and bake it to perfection. Serve it on its own for a quick bite, or elevate it by dipping slices into warm marinara sauce – a truly irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for more!

If you’re a devoted fan of this cheesy, savory pepperoni bread, you’ll definitely want to explore more of our tried-and-true, crowd-pleasing recipes that are perfect for sharing. For your next game day or a lively family gathering, my pull-apart hot Italian sliders are an absolute hit, known for their ease and deliciousness. And for a delightful and unique way to kickstart your day, don’t miss this yummy crescent roll breakfast pizza. When a cozy, comforting, and kid-friendly dinner is what you need, nothing beats my comforting and simple pizza pasta casserole.

Pepperoni Bread with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni baked in bread dough.
A golden-brown loaf of pepperoni bread, showcasing its delicious layers of pepperoni and melted mozzarella cheese, fresh from the oven, ready to be sliced.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pepperoni Bread Recipe

Get ready to elevate your snack or pizza night with a fun, convenient, and incredibly delicious twist! This pepperoni bread recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. It starts with readily available frozen bread dough, which, once thawed and expertly rolled out, becomes the perfect canvas for zesty pepperoni slices and generous layers of melty mozzarella cheese. The true beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, adaptability, and the amazing flavors it delivers. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional pizza, offering a delightful handheld format that’s often less messy and just as satisfying, if not more so!

  • **Effortless Preparation:** Using quality store-bought frozen bread dough drastically cuts down on traditional prep time, making this recipe incredibly accessible even for beginner bakers or busy weeknights when time is a precious commodity.
  • **Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser:** This savory delight is universally loved. Everyone from picky kids to discerning adults adores the irresistible combination of savory pepperoni, gooey, perfectly melted cheese, and fluffy, tender bread. It’s a guaranteed hit and a definite show-stopper at parties, casual potlucks, and any family dinner gathering.
  • **Incredibly Versatile Serving Options:** The beauty of pepperoni bread is its flexibility. Enjoy it as a hearty, satisfying appetizer that kickstarts any meal, a fulfilling mid-day snack, or even transform it into a wholesome main course when thoughtfully paired with a crisp, fresh green salad.
  • **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re hosting an exciting game day, organizing a casual get-together with friends, packing a delightful surprise in a school lunchbox, or simply craving a cozy night in, pepperoni bread fits seamlessly into any scenario.
  • **Delicious Hot or Cold:** Unlike many baked goods, this bread holds its incredible flavor and satisfying texture remarkably well, even after cooling. This makes leftovers an absolute joy to eat, whether warmed up or enjoyed straight from the fridge!

This yummy bread is incredibly versatile and quickly becomes a staple in any household. It can effortlessly serve as a show-stopping appetizer that wows guests, a robust and satisfying snack to tide you over, or even transform into a fulfilling main course when thoughtfully accompanied by a crisp, vibrant green salad. For an extra layer of flavor and interactive fun, ensure you pair it with classic warm marinara, a zesty pizza sauce, or a creamy, tangy ranch dressing for dunking. This adaptability and irresistible taste profile make it a new family favorite that you’ll undoubtedly want to add to your regular rotation and make again and again!

Slice of pepperoni bread being dunked in small bowl of marinara sauce.
A mouth-watering slice of pepperoni bread, glistening with melted cheese, about to be dipped into a small bowl of rich marinara sauce.

It’s truly a fantastic finger food, ideal for parties, casual gatherings, or those exciting game days when you need a simple yet universally loved crowd-pleaser that minimizes fuss and maximizes enjoyment. Beyond special occasions, this easy pepperoni bread is a brilliant and creative solution for school lunches. If your kids grow tired of the usual sandwiches during the school year, this offers a delightful and flavorful alternative that keeps remarkably well and tastes excellent even when cold, making lunchtime an exciting culinary adventure again!

Essential Ingredients for Delicious Pizza Bread

This section provides detailed notes on each ingredient, offering helpful insights and convenient substitution options to customize your pepperoni bread perfectly. You can find all specific measurements, the complete list of ingredients, and step-by-step instructions in the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post.

Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this simple yet spectacular pepperoni bread – it’s all about fresh ingredients and bold flavors:

Pepperoni bread ingredients: frozen bread dough (thawed), slices of mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, Italian seasoning, and an egg.
Key ingredients for making homemade pepperoni bread: thawed frozen bread dough, a generous portion of pepperoni slices, creamy mozzarella cheese, a fresh egg for the wash, and aromatic Italian seasoning.
  • Frozen Bread Dough: This is the undeniable star of our convenience-focused recipe! It’s absolutely crucial that your loaf of bread dough is completely thawed according to package directions before you attempt to proceed with the recipe. This ingenious shortcut saves a tremendous amount of time and effort compared to preparing dough from scratch, making homemade flavor accessible to everyone. However, if you possess a cherished homemade bread dough recipe and enjoy the process, feel free to use it for an even more personalized touch. For interesting variations, pre-made pizza dough or even crescent roll dough can also be used, offering a delightful range of textures from chewy to flaky.
  • Sliced Pepperoni: These savory, slightly spicy, and wonderfully flavorful slices of pepperoni are unequivocally the heart and soul of this bread’s rich flavor profile. Do not be shy or skimp on the pepperoni; a generous, overlapping layer ensures that every single bite is packed with that iconic, irresistible taste that defines this dish. You have options here: opt for classic regular pepperoni, use mini pepperoni for a finer, more even distribution of flavor, or even choose turkey pepperoni for a lighter alternative that still delivers on taste.
  • Sliced Mozzarella Cheese: Sliced mozzarella cheese is incredibly convenient for layering evenly across the dough, which in turn ensures a consistent, satisfying melt throughout the bread. If, however, you only have shredded mozzarella on hand, approximately 2 cups will work just as well – simply sprinkle it generously. For those who love to experiment with flavors, consider substituting with sliced provolone for a sharper taste, pepper jack for a delightful bit of spice, or even a thoughtful mix of your favorite Italian cheeses for added depth.
  • Egg: A single large beaten egg serves a vital purpose as an egg wash. Brushing it generously over the surface of the bread before it goes into the oven achieves that coveted beautiful, glossy, golden-brown crust we all adore, significantly enhancing both the visual appeal and adding a subtle, delightful crispness to the exterior.
  • Italian Seasoning: This fragrant and aromatic blend of classic herbs adds an authentic, rustic Italian-American touch to the bread, elevating its overall flavor. You can confidently use a high-quality store-bought blend, or, for a fresh approach, easily create your own custom mix using dried basil, oregano, fragrant rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Pizza seasoning, with its similar herbal profile, is another excellent alternative that will complement the savory flavors perfectly.
  • Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce (Optional): While entirely optional, a warm dipping sauce truly elevates the experience of eating pepperoni bread from good to gourmet. Whether it’s a classic, robust marinara, a zesty pizza sauce, or even a creamy, tangy ranch dressing, these provide a delightful, moist counterpoint to the rich, savory bread. We strongly recommend serving the sauce on the side for dipping rather than attempting to incorporate it into the bread itself, as adding sauce directly inside can potentially make the dough soggy during baking.

Essential Equipment Needed

Ready to get started on crafting this simple yet incredibly delicious pepperoni bread recipe? Gather these basic kitchen tools, and you’ll be well on your way to baking perfection with ease:

  • Parchment Paper: Absolutely crucial for preventing your bread from sticking to the pan, ensuring a beautiful release, and making cleanup an absolute breeze.
  • Baking Sheet (Sheet Pan): A sturdy, standard-sized sheet pan provides the perfect surface for baking your pepperoni bread to a gorgeous golden perfection, allowing for even heat distribution.
  • Rolling Pin: This tool is essential for evenly rolling out the thawed bread dough into the desired rectangular shape, creating a consistent base for your fillings.
  • Small Bowl: Ideal for easily beating the egg, which will be used for the crucial egg wash, giving your bread that irresistible golden sheen.
  • Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is perfect for smoothly and evenly applying the egg wash and Italian seasoning to the surface of the dough, ensuring full coverage.
  • Measuring Spoons: For accurately measuring your Italian seasoning, ensuring you get just the right amount of aromatic flavor.
  • Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is indispensable, first for making precise scores in the dough before baking, and later for effortlessly slicing the baked bread into neat, appealing portions.

How to Make Easy Pepperoni Bread: Step-by-Step Instructions

This section is designed to guide you through the entire process of making pepperoni bread with clear, easy-to-follow, step-by-step photos and detailed instructions, ensuring perfect, delicious results every single time. For the full printable recipe card, which includes precise measurements and a complete ingredient list, please refer to the dedicated section at the very end of this post.

Let’s create this delicious pepperoni bread together – it’s simpler than you think!

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet. Begin by precisely preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a standard baking sheet with a sheet of parchment paper. This simple yet effective step is crucial, as it prevents the bread from sticking to the pan and makes subsequent cleanup incredibly quick and easy, saving you effort later.

Two image collage of dough rolled into a large rectangle and topped with a layer of pepperoni and a layer of mozzarella cheese.
The bread dough rolled into a perfect rectangle, then generously layered with slices of savory pepperoni and creamy mozzarella cheese, creating a vibrant base for our delicious bread.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough to Perfection. Lightly dust your clean work surface with a small amount of flour. Place your completely thawed bread dough onto the floured surface. Using a reliable rolling pin, carefully and evenly roll the dough into a large, consistent rectangle, aiming for approximate dimensions of 8 x 12 inches (20 x 30 cm). The key here is to ensure the thickness is relatively uniform across the entire surface to allow for even baking.

Step 3: Layer the Zesty Pepperoni. Once your dough rectangle is formed, begin to arrange the pepperoni slices in a single, slightly overlapping layer across the entire surface. This ensures a rich pepperoni flavor in every bite. It’s important to leave a small border (about half an inch or 1.5 cm) around all the edges of the dough. This border will be vital for helping you roll and effectively seal the dough, which in turn prevents the delicious fillings from oozing out excessively during the baking process.

Step 4: Add the Creamy Mozzarella Cheese. After the pepperoni layer is complete, evenly cover it with the slices of mozzarella cheese. If you’re opting to use shredded mozzarella, sprinkle it generously and uniformly over the pepperoni. Remember, the more even your cheese layer, the more consistent and satisfying the melt will be in every single slice of your finished pepperoni bread!

Two image collage of dough rolled up into a log and then brushed with egg wash and seasonings.
The pepperoni and cheese-filled dough expertly rolled into a tight log, then brushed with an egg wash and sprinkled generously with aromatic Italian seasoning, now perfectly prepped for baking.

Step 5: Roll and Securely Seal the Dough. Starting from one of the long sides of your rectangle, carefully and tightly roll the bread dough into a neat log. Once fully rolled, firmly pinch the ends and the entire seam of the dough together to securely seal the delicious fillings inside. If you find the dough isn’t adhering well, you can dampen your fingertips with a little water to help create a stronger seal. Carefully transfer the dough log to your prepared baking sheet, ensuring it is placed seam-side down; this critical step helps prevent it from unrolling or opening during the baking process.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash and Season, Then Score. In a small bowl, lightly beat the large egg until well combined. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the beaten egg over the entire top and sides of the dough log. This vital egg wash is what will give your pepperoni bread its beautiful, glossy, golden-brown color and a slight, appealing shine once baked. Immediately after applying the egg wash, sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the top of the dough. Finally, use a sharp knife to make 4 small, shallow diagonal cuts (about ¼ inch or 0.5 cm deep) across the top of the dough. This technique, known as scoring, acts as essential vents, allowing steam to escape efficiently during baking and ensuring that your pizza loaf bakes evenly without any unsightly bursting.

Bake until golden, rest 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
The perfectly baked pepperoni bread, boasting a beautiful golden crust, now cooling on the baking sheet before being carefully sliced and ready to be enjoyed.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection. Carefully place the baking sheet with your prepared pepperoni bread in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is thoroughly baked through, boasts a gorgeous, inviting golden-brown crust, and the cheese inside is perfectly melted, bubbly, and fragrant. Keep in mind that baking times can vary slightly depending on the specific characteristics of your oven, so it’s always wise to keep a close eye on your bread during the final minutes.

Step 8: Cool and Expertly Slice. Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the pepperoni bread from the oven. It is absolutely crucial to let it cool on the baking sheet for a minimum of 10-15 minutes before attempting to slice it. This essential resting period allows the hot, melted cheese to properly set and firm up, which effectively prevents it from oozing out excessively when you cut into the warm loaf, ultimately ensuring neat, beautifully presented, and utterly delicious slices.

Step 9: Serve and Savor Every Bite! After the crucial cooling period, use a sharp serrated knife to gently cut the pepperoni bread into even, appealing slices. Serve it warm with your choice of a rich marinara sauce, classic robust pizza sauce, or a creamy, tangy ranch dressing for the ultimate, most satisfying dipping experience. Get ready for an outpouring of rave reviews and requests for the recipe!

Inspired Serving Suggestions for Your Pepperoni Bread

This wonderfully versatile pepperoni bread can be served in a myriad of delicious ways, perfectly suited to enhance any meal or gathering. Its rich, savory flavor profile makes it a fantastic and easily adaptable centerpiece for your table.

  • The Ultimate Dipping Delight: The most popular and arguably most satisfying way to enjoy pepperoni bread is undoubtedly with a flavorful dipping sauce. Our homemade pizza sauce or a high-quality store-bought marinara sauce are classic, perfect choices. For a delightful alternative that offers a different flavor dimension, don’t forget the tangy, creamy goodness of ranch dressing!
  • A Hearty Main Dish Upgrade: Effortlessly transform this delightful appetizer into a fulfilling and well-rounded meal by serving it generously alongside a large, fresh green salad. A simple yet vibrant vinaigrette or a robust Italian dressing will complement the richness of the bread beautifully, creating a balanced plate.
  • The Perfect Soup Companion: Elevate your soup experience by pairing warm, comforting slices of pepperoni bread with a steaming bowl of your favorite soup. Imagine it with a hearty minestrone, a classic creamy tomato soup, or even a comforting chicken noodle. It’s a significant upgrade from plain bread and butter!
  • Essential Party Platter Feature: Arrange beautifully sliced pepperoni bread on an elegant platter alongside other delightful finger foods for a stunning and incredibly easy party spread that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum impact. It pairs wonderfully with crunchy vegetable sticks, an assortment of olives, and other traditional antipasto elements.
  • The Go-To Game Day Feast Item: When it comes to football festivities and other exciting game days, this bread is an absolute touchdown! Its handheld nature makes it incredibly easy to grab and enjoy, often requiring no plates, which is perfect for a casual, fun atmosphere.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Proper storage is key to ensuring your delicious pepperoni bread stays fresh, flavorful, and enjoyable for an extended period. Here’s how to best handle any leftovers and prepare portions for future cravings:

Refrigerator Storage: To maintain the freshness of any leftover pepperoni bread, ensure it is stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in high-quality plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When stored correctly, it will confidently last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method is perfect for convenient meal prepping, packing delicious school or work lunches, or simply enjoying a quick, satisfying snack whenever hunger strikes.

Freezer Storage: For significantly longer storage, pepperoni bread freezes exceptionally well, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Once baked and completely cooled to room temperature, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by an additional protective layer of aluminum foil, or place them securely in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months without compromising quality. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or for quicker enjoyment, reheat directly from frozen at a slightly lower temperature until thoroughly warmed through.

Reheating Instructions: For the absolute best results and to ensure you maintain that delightful crispy exterior, reheat pepperoni bread in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 5-10 minutes, or until it is warmed through and the cheese inside is wonderfully gooey again. A toaster oven or an air fryer also works splendidly for individual slices, providing quick and even reheating that restores much of its original texture. While the microwave can be used for convenience in 30-second increments, be aware that this method tends to make the bread a little chewier rather than maintaining its desired crispness.

Serving tray with slices of pepperoni bread  made with mozzarella cheese and frozen bread dough.
A generous platter of freshly baked pepperoni bread slices, beautifully arranged and ready for serving, showcasing its inviting golden crust and abundant cheesy filling.

Expert Tips and Tricks for Achieving Perfect Pepperoni Bread Every Time

Achieving the perfect pepperoni bread is incredibly simple when you armed with a few insider tips and clever tricks. Follow these guidelines to ensure consistently delicious results:

  • Proper Dough Thawing is Key: Always prioritize and strictly follow the specific thawing instructions provided directly on your frozen bread dough package. Most brands typically recommend thawing the dough in the refrigerator overnight for several hours, or at room temperature for a few hours. Ensure it is fully thawed, pliable, and easy to work with before you begin rolling for the absolute best results and ease of handling.
  • Avoid Over-Flouring: When you’re rolling out your dough, exercise caution and use just enough flour on your work surface and rolling pin to prevent it from sticking. Applying too much flour can have an adverse effect, leading to a finished bread that is tough, dry, or has an unpleasant powdery texture.
  • Smart Preparation Ahead: If you’re hosting a party, planning a future meal, or simply want to save valuable time on a busy day, you can efficiently assemble the pepperoni bread in advance. Roll the bread with all its delicious fillings, then carefully cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 12-24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, apply the egg wash, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, score it as instructed, and then pop it directly into the preheated oven. Just remember to slightly adjust the baking time; a cold loaf might require a few extra minutes to bake through completely and evenly.
  • Crucial Cooling Time: This step is often underestimated and overlooked, but it is absolutely essential for perfect pepperoni bread! Allow the freshly baked bread to cool on the baking sheet for a minimum of 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This critical resting period allows the piping hot, melted cheese to properly set and firm up, which significantly prevents it from oozing out excessively when you cut into the loaf, ultimately ensuring neat, beautifully presented, and incredibly delicious slices.
  • Reheating for Optimal Crispness: For the most delicious and satisfying leftovers, the ideal method for reheating your pepperoni bread is in an oven, a toaster oven, or even an air fryer. This method effectively helps to restore the delightful crispy exterior and the warm, gooey interior, bringing it back to its freshly baked glory. While the microwave offers a quick solution in 30-second increments, be aware that this method tends to make the bread a bit chewier rather than maintaining its desirable crispness.
  • Seal It Tight for Success: When carefully rolling the dough into a log after filling, make sure to pinch the seams along the entire length and securely seal the ends very tightly. This meticulous sealing creates a robust barrier, keeping all that precious, delicious pepperoni and gooey cheese locked safely inside during the entire baking process, preventing messy leaks.
  • Scoring is Absolutely Key: Do not, under any circumstances, skip the step of making those small, shallow cuts on top of the dough before baking. These cuts are not just decorative; they are functional vents that allow steam to escape efficiently during baking. This process is vital as it prevents the bread from bursting unevenly and ensures a beautifully baked, perfectly shaped loaf every time.

Delicious Additions and Creative Variations to Customize Your Bread

One of the most exciting aspects of pepperoni bread is how incredibly easily it can be customized to perfectly suit your individual taste preferences, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Get creative in the kitchen and truly make this recipe your own unique masterpiece!

  • Experiment with Different Cheeses: While classic mozzarella is an undeniable favorite for its incredible meltiness, don’t hesitate to venture out and experiment with other cheeses! You might thoroughly enjoy the sharper, more pronounced flavor of provolone, the mild and creamy texture of white American cheese, or a delightful zesty kick from pepper jack for those who love a bit of heat. A thoughtful blend of complementary Italian cheeses, such as provolone, grated parmesan, and mozzarella, can also create a far more complex and rich flavor profile. Try different combinations to discover your ultimate favorite cheesy concoction!
  • Boost with Extra Flavorful Seasonings: After applying that beautiful egg wash, significantly enhance the overall flavor and aroma by generously sprinkling additional seasonings. A simple dash of savory garlic powder, a liberal sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, or a bold pinch of red pepper flakes will undoubtedly add enticing layers of flavor and a delightful, subtle kick. For an exceptionally unique, savory crunch to the crust, “Everything Bagel” seasoning can also be a surprisingly fantastic addition.
  • Add Veggies for a Heartier Pizza Bread Feel: Effortlessly transform this into more of a “pizza bread” by thoughtfully incorporating finely diced vegetables into the filling. Crisp bell peppers, sweet onions (sautéed slightly beforehand to soften and develop deeper flavor), earthy mushrooms, or finely chopped black or green olives are all excellent choices that add texture and nutrition. Remember to use them sparingly (typically a quarter to half a cup total) and ensure any high-moisture vegetables are thoroughly blotted dry or lightly pre-cooked to avoid overstuffing the bread, which could lead to an undesirable sogginess or messy oozing during baking.
  • Try Different Meats for Variety: While pepperoni reigns supreme as the traditional king, other flavorful meats can add fantastic variety and expand your culinary horizons. Consider adding or substituting other thinly sliced deli meats like robust salami or savory ham. Cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (whether mild or spicy) would also be an incredibly delicious and hearty addition. For a lighter, leaner alternative that still delivers on that satisfying savory taste, turkey pepperoni works wonderfully.
  • Infuse with Fresh Herbs: Beyond the standard Italian seasoning, you can take the freshness up a notch by sprinkling finely chopped fresh herbs like fragrant oregano, vibrant basil, or even delicate chives either into the filling itself or on top of the egg wash before baking. This provides a burst of bright, herbaceous flavor that truly elevates the bread.
  • Garlic Butter or Olive Oil Brush: For a different finish, instead of an egg wash, you could generously brush the dough with melted garlic butter for an incredibly rich, aromatic, and savory crust that is simply divine. Alternatively, opt for a simple yet elegant olive oil brush for a more traditional, lighter Italian touch that still delivers a lovely golden sheen.
  • Make it Spicy and Bold: For those adventurous palates who absolutely love heat, finely chopped pepperoncini or zesty jalapeños (whether fresh or pickled, and always thoroughly blotted dry to remove excess moisture) can be added directly to the filling alongside the pepperoni for an exciting kick. A generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top of the egg wash also works wonders to ignite the taste buds.
  • Experiment with Different Dough Types: For a completely different textural experience, consider trying puff pastry or pre-made crescent roll dough instead of traditional bread dough. Puff pastry will yield a wonderfully flaky, buttery result, while crescent roll dough offers a lighter, softer, and slightly sweeter profile. Be aware that the cooking time and temperature might need slight adjustments when using these alternative doughs.
Slices of pepperoni and cheese bread on cooling rack.
Freshly baked and perfectly golden slices of pepperoni and cheese bread, carefully arranged on a cooling rack, showcasing the enticing layers within and waiting to be enjoyed.

Pepperoni Bread Recipe Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you freeze pepperoni bread?

Absolutely, pepperoni bread freezes beautifully and is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meal prep! After baking, allow the bread to cool completely to room temperature. Then, for optimal protection against freezer burn, wrap it tightly first in plastic wrap, followed by an additional secure layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a high-quality freezer-safe bag or container. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months without any significant loss of quality or flavor. To enjoy, simply thaw it leisurely in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven for the best possible texture and taste.

What’s the best way to reheat pepperoni bread?

The optimal way to reheat pepperoni bread, preserving its delicious crispy crust and soft, gooey interior, is in the oven or a toaster oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). For a whole loaf or larger pieces, you might want to cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the top from over-browning while it reheats. Heat for approximately 5-10 minutes, or until it’s thoroughly warmed through and the cheese inside is once again perfectly melted and bubbly. An air fryer also works wonderfully for individual slices, providing quick, even, and deliciously crispy reheating results.

Can you leave pepperoni bread out overnight?

It is generally not recommended to leave pepperoni bread out overnight, primarily due to its dairy content (the mozzarella cheese). While ingredients like pepperoni and cheese are typically safe at room temperature for a couple of hours after cooking, to ensure absolute food safety and maintain optimal freshness, it’s always best practice to refrigerate it promptly once it has cooled down. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to perishable items. When you’re ready to eat it again, you can easily warm it up in the oven for a fresh taste or simply enjoy it cold from the fridge – it’s delicious either way!

Is pepperoni bread the same thing as a pepperoni roll?

No, while both are incredibly delicious and feature pepperoni, pepperoni bread and pepperoni rolls are distinct culinary creations. Pepperoni rolls originated as a unique staple in West Virginia and are typically individual, soft, fluffy balls of dough specifically stuffed with only pepperoni, then baked into small rolls. They were historically a convenient, shelf-stable, and energy-rich meal for miners working long hours underground. In fact, pepperoni rolls are so iconic and beloved that they are officially recognized as West Virginia’s state food! In contrast, pepperoni bread, as described in this recipe, is baked as a larger, more substantial loaf, almost always containing both pepperoni and cheese, and then sliced for serving. It offers a different texture, presentation, and overall eating experience.

Can I use homemade bread dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! While utilizing frozen bread dough offers incredible convenience and saves significant time, using your cherished homemade bread dough will work wonderfully and can add an extra layer of personal touch and flavor. Just ensure your homemade dough is at the right consistency for rolling – it should be pliable and elastic but not overly sticky – and be prepared to potentially adjust baking times as necessary based on your specific dough’s unique characteristics and thickness. Home-baked dough can add a truly exceptional dimension to this recipe!

How can I prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking?

To effectively minimize cheese oozing during baking, meticulous sealing of the dough is paramount. When you carefully roll the dough into a log, make sure to pinch the seam very firmly along its entire length, and also securely seal the ends tightly. Leaving a small border (about half an inch) around the edges of the dough before adding any fillings also creates a better initial seal. Additionally, allowing the baked bread to cool for a crucial 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven is vital, as this allows the hot, melted cheese to properly set and firm up within the loaf before slicing, which significantly reduces oozing.

More Game Day & Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love

Looking for more amazing appetizers to impress your friends and family on game day or at your next lively gathering? These recipes are always a surefire hit and guaranteed winners that will disappear fast:

  • 7 Layer Dip Cups — Say goodbye to all your double-dipping worries! With these individual, perfectly portioned, and incredibly delicious dip cups, everyone gets their own sanitary and satisfying share.
  • Jalapeno Popper Deviled Eggs — This recipe offers a gourmet and exciting upgrade to a timeless classic appetizer, wonderfully enhanced with the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon and a delightful kick of jalapeño.
  • Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip — This dip is wonderfully creamy, perfectly spicy, and utterly addictive, making it a fantastic crowd-pleaser. It’s excellent served with crunchy tortilla chips, savory crackers, or fresh, crisp veggie sticks.
  • Crockpot Grape Jelly BBQ Meatballs — Unbelievably easy to prepare with just 3 simple ingredients, these savory-sweet meatballs cook effortlessly in your crockpot, making entertaining a stress-free and absolute breeze.
Recipe

Pepperoni bread with frozen bread dough and mozzarella cheese sliced and on a white plate.
Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Pepperoni Bread

Author: Jaclyn

Prep:
20 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Total:
50 minutes
Pepperoni Bread is a fun twist on pizza night. Made with frozen bread dough, pepperoni, and mozzarella, it’s perfect for game day or a snack.
Servings: 6
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Ingredients

 

  • 1 pound frozen bread dough thawed
  • pound deli sliced pepperoni about 5 ounces
  • ½ pound sliced mozzarella cheese about 8 ounces
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • pizza or marinara sauce for dipping, optional

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll the dough out into a large rectangle (about 8 x 12 inches).
  • Cover the dough with a layer of pepperoni slices, overlapping a bit as needed.
  • Top with the mozzarella cheese slces.
  • Starting with the longer side, roll the dough into a log. Place the dough on the lined baking sheet with the seam side down.
  • In a small bowl, beat the egg. Brush the beaten egg on top of the dough and sprinkle with the Italian seasoning. Use a sharp knife to score the top of the bread 4 times.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Allow to cool for 10-15 minutes on the baking sheet before slicing and serving.
  • Serve with warn marinara or pizza sauce for dipping, if desired.

Notes

  • Follow the instructions on your bread dough for how to thaw. You will likely need to thaw the dough in the refrigerator for several hours (or overnight).
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a spicy kick try adding some pepperoncinis or jalapenos.
  • Try sprinkling some grated parmesan on the top before baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 444kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 1001mg | Potassium: 112mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 301IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 205mg | Iron: 1mg
Pepperoni bread with frozen bread dough and mozzarella cheese sliced and on a white plate.

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