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Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Stuffed Bread

cheesy pepperoni pizza stuffed bread - featured image

This crowd-pleasing stuffed bread is loaded with gooey mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, zesty pepperoni, and a savory garlic butter glaze, all tucked inside a golden French loaf. Perfect for sharing at parties, game nights, or cozy family dinners, it’s quick to make and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large French bread loaf (about 16 oz, unsliced)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni (regular or turkey)
  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce (thick works best)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place the French bread loaf on the baking sheet. Using a serrated knife, cut the loaf in half lengthwise, leaving about 1/2 inch attached on one long side so it opens like a book.
  3. Gently pull out some of the soft bread from both halves, leaving about 3/4 inch of bread along the sides and bottom. Save the inside bits for breadcrumbs or snacking.
  4. In a bowl, combine mozzarella, Parmesan, pepperoni, pizza sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, and any optional veggies. Stir until well mixed.
  5. Spoon the filling evenly into the hollowed-out center of the loaf. Pack gently but do not overfill.
  6. Carefully close the bread. In a small bowl, mix softened butter and minced garlic. Brush garlic butter generously over the top crust. Sprinkle with parsley if desired.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  8. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Use a serrated knife to cut into thick slices or thin strips for sharing.

Notes

Use a sturdy loaf for best results. Don’t overstuff the bread to prevent bursting. Tent with foil if browning too quickly. Let bread rest before slicing for cleaner cuts. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end. Easily adapted for gluten-free or dairy-free diets by swapping bread and cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed bread, pepperoni pizza bread, cheesy bread, party appetizer, game day, easy recipe, comfort food, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic butter