Say hello to your new favorite Game Day snack: Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread. This easy, baked treat combines savory pepperoni, gooey cheese, and fragrant garlic butter on a crusty loaf—and your family and friends won’t be able to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread Recipe
- Quick prep in under 15 minutes—perfect for last-minute appetizers.
- No fancy equipment required—just a baking sheet and a sharp knife.
- Crispy outside, cheesy inside—guests will ask for seconds.
- Savory pepperoni adds a zesty twist on classic garlic bread.
- Customizable with extra toppings like olives or jalapeños.
- Great for parties, movie nights, or a cozy weeknight side.
- Freezer-friendly: bake now or later.
- Budget-friendly ingredients you likely have on hand.
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) loaf French or Italian bread (day-old works best for crispness)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (or dairy-free spread for a vegan spin)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic gives the best flavor)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (substitute with 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 8 ounces sliced pepperoni (choose a high-quality, low-fat brand if desired)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (part-skim or full-fat)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for an extra savory punch)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional, but adds Mediterranean flair)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Directions
- Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup. - Slice the Bread
With a serrated knife, cut the loaf in half lengthwise so you have two open-faced “boats.” If you prefer smaller servings, slice into 8–10 pieces now. - Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Stir until smooth and season with a pinch of salt and pepper (a dash of red pepper flakes adds a savory kick). - Spread Butter Mixture
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the garlic butter evenly across the cut sides of each half-loaf. Make sure to get all the way to the edges for maximum flavor. - Layer Pepperoni and Cheese
Arrange the pepperoni slices in a single overlapping layer on each buttered loaf half. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top, then finish with a dusting of Parmesan and dried oregano. - Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the bread boats on the prepared sheet, then bake in the center rack for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown around the edges. Tip: For extra-crispy cheese edges, switch to broil for the last 1–2 minutes—watch closely! - Garnish and Serve
Let your Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread rest for 2–3 minutes (this helps the cheese set). Slice into individual portions with a sharp knife or pizza cutter, sprinkle more fresh parsley or red pepper flakes if you like, and serve warm.
Servings & Timing
- Yield: Makes 8 generous servings (or 16 snack-size slices)
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes (easy chopping and mixing)
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes (plus optional broil)
- Total Time: About 30 minutes from start to finish
Variations
- Swap pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage or sliced salami for a meaty twist.
- Use gluten-free or sourdough bread to fit dietary needs.
- Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for a veggie-loaded version.
- Sprinkle pepperjack cheese instead of mozzarella for extra spice.
- Top with fresh basil or arugula after baking for a bright finish.
- Make individual “pepperoni garlic rolls” by rolling up mini loaves.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for lunches or quick snacks. For longer storage, freeze in freezer bags for up to 2 months (flash-freeze slices on a baking sheet first). To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes (or microwave each slice for 30 seconds) until heated through and crispy again.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the bread on the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours—then bake just before serving.
Q: What’s the best way to keep the bread crispy?
A: Reheat in the oven or a toaster oven rather than the microwave to maintain that lovely crunch.
Q: Can I use pre-sliced garlic bread from the store?
A: You can, but making the garlic butter fresh locks in more flavor and prevents sogginess.
Q: Is this recipe easily doubled?
A: Yes—just use two loaves and adjust bake times slightly if your oven is crowded.
Q: What type of pepperoni works best?
A: Look for high-quality, natural pepperoni without artificial fillers—thicker slices hold their shape and flavor better.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Swap in vegan butter and a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative, then follow the same steps for a plant-based appetizer.
Q: How do I cut neat slices without dragging cheese?
A: Let the bread rest a couple of minutes after baking, then use a sharp serrated knife or pizza cutter in a single smooth motion.
Q: Can I add other toppings?
A: Definitely! Olives, mushrooms, or even pineapple make tasty additions—get creative.
Conclusion
This Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread recipe is the ultimate easy, cheesy appetizer that’s baked to golden perfection in about 30 minutes. From game nights to cozy family dinners, it brings savory pepperoni and melted cheese together in every bite—guaranteed to disappear fast! Give it a try, then let me know your favorite variation in the comments below or explore more cheeky cheesy recipes on the blog.
Homemade Pepperoni Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French or Italian bread 16-ounce, day-old for extra crispness
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened (or vegan butter)
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 8 ounces pepperoni slices
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional, for heat
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Use a serrated knife to cut the loaf in half lengthwise into two open-faced halves, or slice into smaller pieces if you prefer individual servings.
- In a medium bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley; season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Evenly spread the garlic herb butter over the cut sides of each bread half, ensuring full coverage to the edges.
- Layer pepperoni slices in a single overlapping layer, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Place the prepared bread on the center oven rack and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly; broil 1–2 minutes for a golden crust.
- Allow the bread to rest for a couple of minutes, then slice into servings with a sharp knife or pizza cutter and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Nutrition
