Spicy Pepperoni Bread
A flavorful, spicy pepperoni bread featuring melted cheese and savory tomato paste, perfect for sharing at parties or as a snack for cheese and meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll out the thawed and risen bread dough on a floured board.
- Spread the Italian tomato paste thinly all over the dough.
- Add sliced cheese and pepperoni on top of the tomato paste.
- Roll the dough up and tuck in the ends to seal.
- Bake at 350°F on a greased cookie sheet until golden brown, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and brush with melted butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian herbs into the tomato paste or sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat. If you prefer a lighter alternative, use whole wheat dough instead of traditional frozen bread dough. You can also experiment with different cheeses like provolone or even a blend of cheeses for a unique taste.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the spicy pepperoni bread and serve it warm as an appetizer or snack. It pairs beautifully with marinara sauce for dipping. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a side of Italian sausage loaf for a delightful meal that highlights Italian recipes. A chilled glass of soda or a light red wine complements the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spicy pepperoni bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, place the bread in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Pepperoni Bread contains roughly 336 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% 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 dough instead of frozen bread dough?
Yes, you can use fresh bread dough if you prefer. Just make sure it has risen properly before rolling it out. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't overbake.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms can be great additions to the filling. Just remember to sauté any raw vegetables first to remove excess moisture, which could make the bread soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread and roll it up, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking for the best results.
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).