Pizza Duds
Pizza Duds are a quick and tasty appetizer featuring a creamy, cheesy topping with a hint of bacon flavor. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these bites combine the richness of mozzarella and bacon bits on bread, then broiled to bubbly perfection for a satisfying, savory treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella cheese, and bacon bits together.
- Spread the mixture on slices of cocktail bread.
- Broil until the topping bubbles and is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mixture of sour cream and mayonnaise instead of just mayonnaise. If you want to add a bit of spice, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. You can substitute the Mozzarella cheese with Cheddar or a blend for a different flavor profile. Make sure to keep an eye on the broiler to prevent burning, as it can happen quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Pizza Duds as a fun appetizer at parties or game nights. They pair beautifully with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad like 7-Layer Lettuce Salad or some crispy vegetables. They work great as finger food for casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place under the broiler for a few minutes until heated through and bubbly again, or microwave them for quick reheating, though this may soften the texture. Serve immediately after reheating for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Duds contains roughly 573 calories, with 12g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 757mg per serving (33% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the topping mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before spreading it on the bread and broiling. This will save you time when you're ready to serve. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using.
What type of bread works best for Pizza Duds?
Cocktail bread is ideal due to its small size and ability to hold toppings. However, you can also use slices of French bread or even pita bread cut into small pieces if you prefer. Just be mindful of the broiling time, as thicker bread will require longer.
Can I add other toppings to the Pizza Duds?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding sliced olives, diced bell peppers, or even some cooked sausage to the mixture. This is a versatile recipe, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or use leftover ingredients from other dishes.
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).