There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the savory scent of garlic and pepperoni. This homemade pepperoni garlic bread recipe takes that comfort to a whole new level. With a crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy interior, it’s the perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering with friends or simply craving a indulgent snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced in half horizontally
- ¼ cup salted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni slices (as desired)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the garlic powder until well combined.
- Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the French bread.
- Place the bread, cut side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the buttered bread.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pizza sauce.
- Arrange the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.
- Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings such as bell peppers, onions, or olives.
- If you prefer a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or jalapeños instead of pepperoni.
- To make it a complete meal, serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- For a keto-friendly version, use a low-carb or keto-friendly bread as a base. You can find these at most grocery stores or make your own using almond flour or coconut flour.
- Replace the pizza sauce with a sugar-free marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce with no added sugars.
- Opt for a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese to reduce the carb content.
- Skip the pepperoni or use turkey pepperoni for a lower fat and calorie option.
Homemade pepperoni garlic bread is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re following a keto diet, watching your carbs, or simply indulging in a savory treat, this recipe is a winner every time. So grab a loaf of French bread and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the garlic bread up to the point of baking and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Once baked, allow the garlic bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
- Can I use other types of bread? While French bread works best for this recipe due to its sturdy texture, you can experiment with other types of bread such as ciabatta or baguette. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly based on the thickness of the bread slices.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? Absolutely! Simply omit the pepperoni and add your favorite vegetarian toppings such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or black olives. You can also sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the cheese for extra flavor.
- How can I make this gluten-free? To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free bread or a homemade gluten-free bread as the base. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients such as the pizza sauce and cheese are gluten-free certified.
- Can I add extra garlic? Of course! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more garlic powder to the butter mixture or even minced fresh garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
- What can I serve this with? This pepperoni garlic bread pairs well with a variety of dishes such as pasta, salad, or soup. It also makes a great appetizer for parties or game day gatherings.
- Can I customize the cheese? Absolutely! While mozzarella cheese is traditional for garlic bread, you can mix it up by using other cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for added flavor.
- How can I make this recipe healthier? To make this recipe healthier, you can use whole wheat French bread or a whole grain bread as the base. You can also reduce the amount of butter and cheese used, or opt for low-fat cheese options.
- Can I add extra toppings? Yes, feel free to get creative with your toppings! Try adding cooked crumbled sausage, diced tomatoes, or even grilled chicken for a heartier version of this garlic bread.
Remember, the beauty of homemade cooking is that you can customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. So don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!
