This Cheesy Pepperoni Sourdough Pizza Bread is a fun twist on classic pizza! With gooey cheese and tasty pepperoni all baked into a soft, sourdough loaf, it’s simply irresistible.
Baking this bread feels like a cool science experiment! I love tearing it apart and enjoying it with a side of marinara sauce. Perfect for a snack or a party treat! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: This bread serves as the perfect base, bringing unique flavors and a chewy texture. If you don’t have sourdough on hand, a crusty artisan bread works well too. Just look for something with a thick, sturdy crust.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is the best choice for its meltiness. In a pinch, you can substitute with provolone or even cheddar cheese for a different flavor. I love how mozzarella stays gooey!
Pepperoni: Classic pepperoni delivers that pizza punch. If you’re keeping it healthier, try turkey pepperoni or even veggies like bell peppers or olives for a different taste. You can go for plant-based options too!
Olive Oil: I always use olive oil for its flavor, but melted butter gives a nice richness too. If you need a dairy-free option, avocado oil is a great substitute. A drizzle of both would be delicious as well!
How Do You Cut Sourdough Bread Without Crushing It?
Making those diagonal cuts in sourdough can be tricky. To avoid squishing the bread, use a serrated knife with long, gentle sawing motions rather than pressing down hard.
- Start by placing the bread on a stable cutting board. It’s best to use a sharp, serrated knife.
- Begin at one end and slice diagonally. Aim for cuts that are about 1 to 1.5 inches apart.
- Make sure not to cut all the way through the bottom, so the loaf holds together.
This technique gives your bread that “accordion” style, allowing all the cheesy goodness to seep in beautifully!
Cheesy Pepperoni Sourdough Pizza Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 loaf sourdough bread
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce, divided
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheesy Pepperoni Sourdough Pizza Bread requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking time, making it a quick and delightful treat you can whip up in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is just right for ensuring your bread gets the perfect crispy crust while melting the cheese inside.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Using a serrated knife, carefully make diagonal cuts across the sourdough loaf. Make sure to cut almost all the way through but stop before you slice through the bottom. You want to create a grid or accordion effect with cuts about 1 to 1.5 inches apart.
3. Mix the Cheese and Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese with half of the pizza sauce. This cheesy mixture will be spread between the cuts of the bread.
4. Stuff the Bread:
Spread the cheese and sauce mixture between each of the bread slices. Feel free to push it in a little so it gets deep inside for extra flavor!
5. Add Pepperoni:
Carefully insert the slices of pepperoni between the cuts of the bread. Layer them evenly to ensure every bite is filled with tasty goodness.
6. Season the Top:
Drizzle the olive oil (or melted butter) over the top of the loaf. Then, sprinkle the garlic powder and dried oregano evenly over it for that classic pizza flavor.
7. Bake:
Place your stuffed bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges of the bread are nice and crispy.
8. Optional Golden Finish:
If you like a golden top, you can turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it so nothing burns!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven, and if you like, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. Let it cool slightly, then serve warm with the remaining pizza sauce as a delicious dipping option.
Enjoy your mouthwatering, gooey Cheesy Pepperoni Sourdough Pizza Bread with friends and family! It’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough gives a unique flavor and texture, you can use any crusty artisan bread or even ciabatta for a delicious twist. Just ensure it can hold the toppings well!
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for alternatives to pepperoni, turkey pepperoni or spicy salami work great. For a vegetarian option, try sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives—get creative with your toppings!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
For any leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best results!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the bread with cheese and toppings ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for the freshest taste. If you’re storing it raw, try to bake it within 24 hours for optimal flavor.
