Are you craving a delicious snack that combines the flavors of pizza with the comforting texture of bread? Look no further than pizza bread! This dish is incredibly versatile, perfect for gatherings, or simply enjoying during a cozy night in. With a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and your favorite toppings, pizza bread will surely become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 1 loaf of crusty bread (like ciabatta or baguette)
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
– 1/4 cup sliced olives
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Olive oil for drizzling
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 loaf): approximately 350 calories, 15g protein, 40g carbohydrates, 15g fat, 3g fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
3. Scoop out some of the bread from the center to create a pocket.
4. Spread pizza sauce evenly on both halves.
5. Sprinkle garlic powder and dried oregano over the sauce.
6. Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Top with pepperoni slices, olives, and bell peppers.
8. Drizzle a little olive oil over the toppings.
9. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the mozzarella cheese with any cheese of your choice, such as cheddar or provolone. You can also use a gluten-free bread to cater to dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
Pizza bread pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or even as an appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping. It’s perfect for parties or casual family dinners.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover pizza bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This dish is not recommended for freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overload the toppings, as this can make the bread soggy.
- Ensure your oven is preheated for even cooking.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip scooping out the bread; it helps balance the toppings.
- Monitor baking time closely to avoid burning the crust.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different toppings like vegetables or meats.
- Try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat.
- Use a pizza stone for an even crispier bottom.
- Let the pizza bread cool for a few minutes before slicing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While ciabatta and baguette are great choices, feel free to use any crusty bread you prefer, such as focaccia or sourdough.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Simply omit the pepperoni and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian option.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bread with sauce and toppings ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
Can I freeze pizza bread?
While it’s not recommended to freeze this dish due to texture changes, you can freeze the bread before baking it. Just bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Pizza bread is a delightful dish that satisfies cravings for both pizza and bread. With its endless topping possibilities and simple preparation, it’s a fantastic option for any meal or snack. Enjoy the process of making this dish and watch it become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Pizza Bread
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of crusty bread like ciabatta or baguette
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup sliced olives
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out some of the bread from the center to create a pocket.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly on both halves.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and dried oregano over the sauce.
- Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Top with pepperoni slices, olives, and bell peppers.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the toppings.
- Place the bread halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
