Perfectly Easy Pepperoni Bread
A savory, cheesy pepperoni bread with fragrant herbs, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a flavorful snack, combining crispy crust with gooey, spicy filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw bread dough until soft.
- Beat the egg with a fork.
- Add grated Parmesan, dried parsley, and chopped pepperoni to the beaten egg.
- Mix well to combine.
- Roll out the bread dough to about 7 x 12 inches.
- Spread the pepperoni mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll up the dough like a jelly roll, starting at the 12-inch end.
- Place on a greased cookie sheet or 13-inch pan, seam side down.
- Tuck in the ends of the roll.
- Let rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 35 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the pan and cool on a rack.
- If soft crust is desired, brush with soft butter while still warm, then cover with a dish towel.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding some minced garlic or chopped bell peppers to the pepperoni mixture. If you don't have Parmesan, any hard cheese can work as a substitute. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight for best results; this will make it easier to roll out. For an extra kick, try using spicy pepperoni or adding crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This pepperoni bread is perfect as a snack or appetizer. Serve it warm with marinara sauce for dipping, or pair it with a fresh salad for a light meal. It also complements Italian dishes beautifully, making it a great side for pasta or a hearty soup. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside the Sausage, Egg, Mushroom And Cheese Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled pepperoni bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Perfectly Easy Pepperoni Bread contains roughly 170 calories, with 8g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C.
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 dough instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh bread dough if you prefer. Just ensure it is rolled out to the same dimensions as specified in the recipe. Fresh dough may require a shorter rising time, so keep an eye on it as it rises.
What can I substitute for pepperoni?
If you're looking for alternatives to pepperoni, you can use sliced salami, chorizo, or even vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain a flavorful profile.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make a healthier version of this pepperoni bread, consider using whole wheat bread dough and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables to the filling, such as spinach or zucchini, to increase the nutritional value.
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).