Craving something indulgent, savory, and ready in a flash? This Meat Lovers Pizza Bread delivers everything you love about a loaded meat pizza, wrapped up in a crusty, cheesy, pull-apart bread that’s perfect for any night of the week. Itโs bold, hearty, and oh-so-satisfyingโideal for feeding a hungry crowd or just treating yourself to a next-level dinner.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: This recipe comes together in about 20 minutes of prep and 15 minutes in the oven. Thatโs weeknight dinner magic.
- Packed with Flavor: Each bite bursts with gooey cheese, savory meats, and tangy pizza sauce.
- Perfect for Sharing: Serve it as a fun appetizer, party snack, or easy dinner. Itโs a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: Love spice? Prefer different meats? You can easily tweak this to fit your flavor mood.
Ingredients Youโll Need
- French Bread or Italian Loaf: The base of your pizza bread. Choose a sturdy loaf that can hold all the toppings.
- Pizza Sauce: A good quality jarred sauce works great. Or go homemade if you have time. Adds moisture and that classic pizza tang.
- Mozzarella Cheese: For that perfect stretch and melt. Go with whole milk mozzarella for richer flavor.
- Pepperoni: A must-have for that spicy, crispy bite.
- Cooked Italian Sausage: Brings a juicy, herby flavor. Crumble it well to spread evenly.
- Cooked Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch and irresistible aroma.
- Parmesan Cheese: For a salty, nutty finish on top.
- Italian Seasoning: Sprinkle for that classic pizza-shop flavor.
- Garlic Butter: Brush the bread before baking for an extra golden crust and a hint of garlicky goodness.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeรฑos.
- Different Cheeses: Try provolone, cheddar, or a blend.
- Veggie Lovers: Add mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers.
- Mini Version: Use smaller rolls or baguette slices for individual servings.
How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Bread
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Slice the loaf in half lengthwise. Place both halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Lightly brush with garlic butter.
Step 2: Add the Sauce and Cheese
Spread pizza sauce over the bread. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella over the top.
Step 3: Add the Meats
Evenly distribute the cooked sausage, pepperoni slices, and crumbled bacon across both halves. Donโt be shyโpile it high.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Sprinkle with Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Bake in a preheated oven at 400ยฐF for 12-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Let it cool slightly, then slice into strips or squares. Serve warm and enjoy every gooey, meaty bite.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Pre-cook all meats: Ensures everything is safe to eat and adds crispiness.
- Use parchment paper: Makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- Donโt overbake: Watch for golden cheese and crispy edges, but not burnt tops.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing: This helps the cheese set a bit so you get cleaner cuts.
How to Serve
Pair this with a fresh green salad or some marinara for dipping. It also goes great with a cold drink or soda. Serve it on a big board for parties or just pile it on plates for family-style feasting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap in foil or place in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze individual portions wrapped in foil and placed in a zip-top bag. Theyโll keep well for about 2 months.
Reheating
Pop slices in the oven at 350ยฐF for 10 minutes, or until warmed through. For a quicker fix, microwave for 30-45 seconds, but the crust wonโt be as crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! Ciabatta, sourdough, or any sturdy loaf will work beautifully. Just avoid very soft breads as they might get soggy.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.
Is it okay to use pre-cooked meats?
Absolutely. Using store-bought cooked bacon or sausage saves time and works just as well.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely! Just skip the meats and pile on your favorite veggies like mushrooms, onions, olives, or spinach.
Final Thoughts
This Meat Lovers Pizza Bread is pure comfort food blissโooey, gooey, crispy, and loaded with all the best pizza toppings. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding your family, or just indulging in some well-earned me-time, this recipe is your go-to for effortless, cheesy satisfaction. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love!
PrintMeat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20โ25 minutes
- Total Time: 30โ35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty, savory pullโapart bread stuffed with seasoned ground beef, pepperoni, and a trio of cheeses, perfect for game day or a crowdโpleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano + 1/8 tsp for topping
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1 jar (about 1 cup) pizza sauce, divided
- 1 tube (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 1/3 cup (about 2 oz) thinโsliced pepperoni
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 Tbsp butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400โฏยฐF.
- Cook ground beef with ยฝโฏtsp oregano, garlic powder, and salt until browned; drain and stir in โ โฏcup pizza sauce. Set aside.
- Unroll pizza dough on a baking sheet into a rectangle.
- Spread remaining ยฝโฏcup pizza sauce down the center of the dough.
- Layer provolone, pepperoni, beef mixture, then mozzarella down the center.
- Cut 1โinch strips along both sides of the dough toward filling.
- Braid the dough strips over the filling.
- Brush braid with melted butter, sprinkle with Parmesan and remaining oregano.
- Bake for 20โ25โฏminutes until golden and cooked through.
- Warm leftover sauce for dipping. Let bread cool 5โฏminutes, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Drain the beef well to prevent soggy dough.
- Donโt overโfill or braiding will be difficult.
- Assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 loaf
- Calories: 134 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 577 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 34 mg
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