Oh boy, do I have an exciting treat to share with you today! If you’re like me and adore pizza but sometimes crave that fun, shareable vibe, then let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: **Pizza Monkey Bread**! This delightful dish has been a hit at many parties and family gatherings for years. I remember the first time I made it; we gathered around the table, and within minutes, it disappeared! It’s incredibly fun to pull apart, cheesy and satisfying, and just downright delicious.
This recipe brings all the comforting flavors of pizza together without the hassle of traditional pizza-making. Plus, who doesn’t love tearing into a warm, gooey treat with friends and family? Let’s get started on this delightful adventure in the kitchen! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
What’s in Pizza Monkey Bread?
– Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: The star of the show! I love using the classic flaky biscuit dough; it becomes perfectly golden and pulls apart beautifully when baked.
– Pepperoni Slices: Because what’s pizza without pepperoni? The quartered pieces add just the right amount of savory goodness.
– Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Get ready for all that cheesy ooey-gooey goodness! I often reach for the whole milk mozzarella for a creamier texture.
– Marinara Sauce: A must-have for that pizza flavor! I usually go for a store-bought version that’s packed with flavor, but homemade works too if you’re feeling ambitious.
– Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a little extra depth of flavor that perfectly complements the mozzarella.
– Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that really elevates the overall taste.
– Garlic Powder: Just a hint of garlic makes everything better!
– Melted Butter: This adds richness and a beautiful golden crust on top.
– Cooking Spray: For keeping everything from sticking to that baking dish.
Is Pizza Monkey Bread Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspect—because I know we love to balance our guilty pleasures!
– Biscuit Dough: While it’s convenient and delicious, it can be a bit high in calories and sodium. Opt for the whole grain or reduced-fat versions if you’re keeping an eye on your intake.
– Pepperoni: A favorite topping, but it’s important to note that it’s processed and can contain a fair amount of fat and sodium. You might consider turkey pepperoni as a lighter alternative.
– Cheese: While cheese is a fantastic source of calcium, it does come with calories and fat. You could mix it with lower-fat cheeses to lighten it up while still enjoying that melty texture.
– Marinara Sauce: A great source of vitamins C and A, plus fiber! Just watch for added sugars in store-bought versions.
All in all, it’s all about moderation. This recipe is a fun treat, and if you balance it with healthier meals throughout the day, you’ll be just fine!
Ingredients List
– 2 cans (16 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough
– 1 cup pepperoni slices, quartered
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for dipping)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– Cooking spray
Serves: Approximately 6-8 people (or just me, if I’m being honest).
How to Make Pizza Monkey Bread?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations!
2. Grab each biscuit and cut it into quarters. You can channel your inner pizza chef here!
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss in the quartered biscuits along with the pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Give it a good mix until all those biscuit bites are coated and happy.
4. Pour in the melted butter, and stir once more until everything is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens!
5. Carefully transfer that cheesy, pepperoni goodness into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Pop that dish into the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is a gorgeous golden brown and the biscuits are cooked through.
7. Pull it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes (if you can resist, I definitely can’t wait).
8. Serve warm with additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping!
Fun Twists to Try with Pizza Monkey Bread!
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Feel free to get creative. Add veggies like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for a little crunch. Want to switch up the cheese? Try adding a bit of cheddar for a kick! You could even use cooked sausage or ham in lieu of pepperoni if you’re feeling adventurous.
This delightful Pizza Monkey Bread is such an enjoyable dish to make and share. I can’t wait for you to try it! If you do, please share your experience with me. Whether it’s your family gathering or a cozy night in with your favorite movie, this dish is sure to add that extra touch of fun. Happy baking!
