Italian Bread Loaf
A savory Italian bread roll filled with pepperoni and mozzarella, seasoned with Italian herbs, perfect as a snack or party appetizer with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the bread loaf raise and then cut it in half.
- Roll out half of the bread on a floured breadboard.
- Beat the egg and brush it over the rolled out bread, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Place pepperoni and shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the rolled out bread.
- Roll it up like a jelly roll and pinch the edges to seal.
Tips & Substitutions
To make this Italian Bread Loaf even more flavorful, consider adding diced olives or chopped bell peppers along with the pepperoni. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute turkey pepperoni or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. For a more pronounced flavor, try using fresh herbs instead of dried Italian seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Bread Loaf makes a great appetizer or snack, perfect for game days or gatherings. Pair it with marinara sauce for dipping, or serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with No Noodles Lasagne for a delightful Italian spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Italian Bread Loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the loaf in aluminum foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain the bread's softness and prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Bread Loaf contains roughly 287 calories, with 14g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 463mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bread instead of frozen for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh bread, but make sure it’s slightly stale to make rolling easier. If the bread is too soft, it might tear when you roll it up. Allow it to sit out for a couple of hours or lightly toast it before rolling.
What other fillings can I use in this bread loaf?
Feel free to customize the fillings! You can use cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, or even different cheeses like provolone or cheddar. For a unique twist, consider adding ingredients from other Italian recipes, such as spinach or ricotta, to enhance the flavor.
Can I freeze the prepared bread loaf?
Absolutely! If you want to make this ahead of time, you can freeze the rolled loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed for a delicious, freshly baked treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).