Cheesy Pepperoni Pull Apart Loaf
The Cheesy Pepperoni Pull Apart Loaf is a delicious and easy-to-make savory snack featuring a soft, fluffy bread loaf filled with melted mozzarella cheese and spicy pepperoni slices. Perfect for sharing at game nights, family gatherings, or any casual occasion, this pull-apart loaf offers gooey cheese, rich flavors, and a crispy golden crust with a fragrant blend of garlic and Italian herbs.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 pre-made round or oval bread loaf (firm yet soft, about 12 oz)
- 20–30 thinly sliced pepperoni pieces
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Prepare the Bread Loaf: Start with a fresh round or oval bread loaf. Using a serrated knife, make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart across the loaf, then turn the loaf and cut diagonally again in the opposite direction to form a diamond pattern. Ensure that all cuts stop before slicing through the bottom crust, keeping the loaf intact.
- Layer the Ingredients: Gently pull apart sections of the loaf and insert pepperoni slices and shredded mozzarella cheese between each piece. Continue layering evenly until the entire loaf is filled with flavorful cheese and pepperoni in every crevice.
- Add Seasoning and Butter: Mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Carefully brush this mixture generously over the top of the loaf, allowing it to seep into the crevices to maximize flavor and moisture.
- Add Parmesan and Bake: Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the loaf. Place the loaf on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust turns a golden brown.
- Serve Warm and Enjoy: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve immediately while warm for the best gooey, cheesy pull-apart experience.
Notes
- Use a fresh but firm bread loaf to balance softness and sturdiness.
- Do not cut all the way through the bottom of the loaf to keep it intact for easy pulling.
- Distribute pepperoni and cheese evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Brush butter thoroughly for a moist, crisp crust when baked.
- Serve warm to enjoy the cheese at its gooey best and the inviting aroma.
- To make gluten-free, use a gluten-free bread loaf.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil or an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze unbaked layered loaf wrapped in plastic and foil; thaw overnight in fridge before baking.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes; avoid microwaving to keep crust crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 loaf (about 100g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Cheesy Pepperoni Pull Apart Loaf, pull apart bread, pepperoni snack, cheesy bread, party appetizers, finger food, easy snack