There’s something incredibly satisfying about breaking apart a warm, cheesy dish with friends gathered around the table. When the occasion calls for easy entertaining, my go-to recipe is this Easy Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread. The delightful combination of gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and the comforting pull-apart texture is nothing short of magical. Plus, it comes together in a flash using store-bought pizza dough, leaving you with more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones.
Whether it’s a game night, a casual get-together, or just a cozy family dinner, this dish is versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings and seasonings. Imagine the smiles as everyone eagerly reaches for a piece, dipping it into rich marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor. It’s everything you love about pizza, but with a fun twist that makes it irresistibly shareable. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary delight that promises to be the star of any gathering!
Why You’ll Love Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread
Easy Assembly: With store-bought dough, making this delightful dish is a breeze. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, your friends and family will love sharing this cheesy treat. Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite toppings—from veggies to different cheeses. Savory Flavor: The combination of mozzarella and pepperoni creates an unforgettable taste. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game night or a cozy family dinner, this dish adapts seamlessly. Plus, serve it alongside fresh salads or antipasto for an even more impressive spread!
Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread Ingredients
• Note: Gather these easy-to-find ingredients for the ultimate Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread experience!
For the Dough and Fillings
• Refrigerated Pizza Dough – Provides the fluffy foundation; let it sit at room temperature for easy handling.
• Pepperoni Slices – Offers a savory bite; substitute with turkey pepperoni or skip for a vegetarian option.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty richness; fresh-grated is ideal for melting.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Ensures gooeyness; use dairy-free cheese for a vegan twist.
For the Seasoning Mix
• Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and prevents sticking; melted butter can make it richer.
• Onion Flakes & Garlic – Infuse aromatic depth; fresh garlic can elevate the flavor even more.
• Italian Seasoning & Red Pepper Flakes – Provide herby goodness with a hint of heat; adjust seasonings to taste.
For Serving
• Marinara Sauce – Perfect for dipping and drizzling; feel free to use homemade or your favorite store-bought variety!
How to Make Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a Bundt pan to ensure easy release after baking.
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Prepare Seasoning Mix: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine olive oil, butter, onion flakes, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and parsley. Microwave until the butter melts, stirring occasionally for a fragrant mix.
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Cut and Toss Dough: Cut the refrigerated pizza dough into 1 ½-inch pieces. Toss these pieces in the seasoning mix until they are well-coated, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.
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Layer in Bundt Pan: Start layering by placing a third of the pepperoni and parmesan at the bottom of the greased Bundt pan. Follow with half of the tossed dough pieces, half of the mozzarella, and a drizzle of marinara sauce. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used.
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Bake: Carefully place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
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Cool and Serve: Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently removing it. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping!
Optional: Drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving for a gourmet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread
- Dough Prep: Allow refrigerated pizza dough to come to room temperature for easier handling and a better rise.
- Layering Technique: Be careful not to overload the Bundt pan; filling it no more than 2/3 full allows for even baking and prevents overflow.
- Consistent Temperature: Bake at a steady 350°F to avoid burning the cheese or undercooking the dough.
- Cooling Time: Let the bread cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to enhance the cheese pull experience.
- Flavor Boost: Consider mixing in fresh herbs or spices to the seasoning mix for a uniquely flavored Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread!
Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delicious dish to suit your taste!
- Veggie Delight: Add in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a fresh and hearty touch. Each bite can be packed with vibrant flavors!
- Spicy Twist: Swap regular pepperoni for spicy Italian sausage or jalapeños to give your bread an extra kick. Spice lovers will adore this fiery upgrade.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh basil or oregano to your seasoning mix for a delightful herby aroma. This small addition can elevate the entire flavor profile.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Combine mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a unique cheesy blend that will make every pull creamy and satisfying.
- Sweet & Savory: Toss in a few pieces of diced pineapple for a sweet twist that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements. It’s like a mini pizza adventure!
- Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic by adding fresh minced cloves in lieu of onion flakes. This adds a bold flavor that will entice anyone around the table.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese options and plant-based butter to create a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing that comforting taste.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle some Italian-style breadcrumbs on top before baking for added crunch and texture. This can take your monkey bread from great to gourmet!
What to Serve with Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread?
Creating a well-rounded meal around this delectable dish can be a delightful experience.
- Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a mix of greens balances the warm, cheesy richness, adding vibrant colors and textures.
- Garlic-Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli, seasoned with garlic and olive oil, provides a healthy, flavorful side that complements the savory bread perfectly.
- Antipasto Platter: A colorful assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and olives enhances the Italian theme and offers a variety of tastes for your guests to enjoy.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: If you can’t get enough of that cheesy goodness, serve breadsticks alongside your Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread for a double dose of delight!
- Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine deepens the flavors and adds a touch of elegance, making your gathering feel special.
- Chocolate Dessert: End the meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate dessert, offering a delightful contrast to the savory monkey bread experience.
How to Store and Freeze Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread
Fridge: Wrap the cooled monkey bread in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, ensuring that it remains delicious for your next gathering.
Reheating: To enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes if refrigerated, or 20-25 minutes if frozen (after thawing) to restore that delightful texture.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with extra marinara sauce for dipping when serving leftover Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread, enhancing the flavors of this crowd-pleasing dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread bites are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor delicious homemade goodness with minimal effort! You can cut the pizza dough and toss it in the seasoning mix up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate the seasoned dough in an airtight container, preventing it from drying out. Additionally, layer the ingredients in the Bundt pan up to 3 days before baking; cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the oven and bake for around 40 minutes. This way, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing snack that’s just as delightful as when prepared fresh!
Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of pizza dough should I use for Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread?
Absolutely! I recommend using refrigerated pizza dough from Pillsbury or another brand you enjoy. Make sure to let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes for easier handling and better results. This way, your dough will be soft and pliable, making it perfect for cutting into pieces.
How should I store leftover Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread?
For the best freshness, wrap the cooled Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing it for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes to restore its gooey goodness.
What if my Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread isn’t cooking evenly?
Very! If you notice the top cooking too quickly while the inside remains doughy, it may be due to overcrowding in the Bundt pan or an oven that’s too hot. Make sure not to fill the pan more than 2/3 full and cook at the recommended 350°F. If necessary, cover the top with aluminum foil during baking to prevent over-browning while the inside finishes cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Definitely! If you’re making this for guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily swap ingredients for alternatives. Use turkey pepperoni or omit it for vegetarian versions. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free pizza dough. If you’re catering to dairy-free diets, consider using dairy-free cheese options, ensuring everyone can indulge in this tasty treat!
Pull Apart Pizza Monkey Bread: The Ultimate Snack Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, mix olive oil, butter, onion flakes, garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Microwave until butter melts.
- Cut refrigerated pizza dough into 1 ½-inch pieces and toss in the seasoning mix.
- Layer a third of the pepperoni and parmesan at the bottom, followed by half of the dough pieces, half of the mozzarella, and drizzle with marinara. Repeat layers.
- Bake for approximately 40 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving with extra marinara.