There’s nothing quite like pulling a freshly baked loaf of cheesy pepperoni garlic bread from the oven, ready to be devoured. That first bite is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with perfectly melted mozzarella tangling each layer together. When you grab a piece loaded with spicy pepperonis, it’s a flavor explosion that delights the taste buds!
I still remember the first time I baked pepperoni garlic bread from scratch. I wanted to impress my friends at game night with an irresistible snack, and it worked wonders! I sliced open a crusty baguette, slathered it with buttery garlic sauce, stuffed it full of pepperoni and shredded mozzarella, and baked it until bubbly and golden. The aroma of garlic, butter, and melting cheese filled my apartment, making everyone eager to taste. That first gooey pull-apart bite was pure bliss, sparking an obsession that lasts to this day.
Now, whenever there’s a potluck or party, I receive countless requests to bring my famous pepperoni garlic bread. It has become my signature dish! My recipe even won first place in the appetizer competition at our town’s annual baking contest last year—I had to bake ten loaves just to satisfy the crowd! I’m excited to share this mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing recipe with you. Once you experience the melty cheese and the perfect combination of flavors, you’ll be hooked!
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using a baguette or an Italian loaf.
What if I prefer mild pepperoni?
No problem! You can use mild pepperoni or even cooked salami. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings.
How can I make the bread extra garlicky?
To enhance the garlic flavor, simply double the amount of garlic butter. Don’t hold back!
Should I add extra cheese?
Absolutely! Sprinkling a bit of parmesan on top will add a delicious, nutty flavor.
What sides pair well with cheesy pepperoni garlic bread?
A fresh, tangy salad or crunchy veggie sticks complement the richness of the bread perfectly.
Is there a quicker way to make this dish?
Yes! You can use pre-made garlic bread for faster preparation. Check my notes for more details!
Can I prepare the garlic bread in advance?
Certainly! You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it right before serving to ensure the cheese melts beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 (24-inch) Italian bread loaf
- 8 tablespoons softened butter
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 1/4 cups (5 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (4 ounces) sliced pepperoni
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Carefully slice the Italian bread down the center, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Think of it as opening a butterflied book. Next, make vertical cuts about 2 inches apart on both sides to create slots for the pepperoni and cheese.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped Italian parsley. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a vibrant green, spreadable paste. Ensure the garlic is well incorporated for maximum flavor.
- Now, for the fun part! Fill the slots in the bread with shredded mozzarella, using approximately 1/4 cup per slot. Top each section with 2-3 slices of pepperoni, pressing gently to create a sturdy layer.
- Wrap the loaded bread loosely in foil to retain heat, but be careful not to squeeze too tightly to prevent cheese leakage.
- Bake the wrapped loaf in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil to allow the crust to become golden and crispy. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and glossy.
- Once baked, allow the cheesy garlic bread to rest for at least 5 minutes. Carefully pull it apart into bakery-worthy slices, taking care to avoid any hot steam. Finally, take a moment to inhale that irresistible aroma before diving in!
Notes
- Let dough come to room temperature for easy slicing.
- Infuse compound butter with lemon zest or chili flakes.
- Substitute cheddar, fontina, or gouda for mozzarella.
- Add sliced black olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Make ahead by preparing through step 4, refrigerating 2 hours, and baking later.
- For quicker prep, use frozen garlic bread loaf instead of fresh bread. Thaw first before adding cheeses and toppings in slots.
