Pizza Monkey Bread is the kind of fun, flavorful, totally addictive pull-apart dish that makes every gathering feel like a party. Imagine warm dough bites stuffed with melty cheese and pepperoni, baked to golden perfection, then coated in garlic butter that smells like pure happiness. Every pull gives you a stretchy cheese moment, a burst of pizza flavor, and that incredible soft-but-crispy texture people can’t get enough of.
It’s the perfect appetizer for game day, holidays, family nights, or any time you want a crowd-pleasing snack that disappears in minutes. Kids love it, adults devour it, and leftovers—if they happen—reheat beautifully. With simple ingredients and maximum flavor impact, this pizza monkey bread is destined to become a household favorite.
Equipment You Will Need
- Bundt pan or tube pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Small bowl for dipping
- Pastry brush
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Ingredients List
- 2 cans (16 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup mini pepperoni or chopped pepperoni
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce for dipping
- Optional add-ins: cooked sausage, ham, olives, bell peppers, jalapeños, or fresh basil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing your bundt pan with olive oil or nonstick spray. This ensures the monkey bread releases easily without sticking. Open your cans of biscuit dough and separate each piece.
Cut each biscuit in half to create smaller dough portions that work perfectly for stuffing. Flatten each dough piece slightly using your fingers or a rolling pin. Place a small spoonful of mozzarella cheese and a few pieces of pepperoni into the center of each dough circle. Pull the edges together to seal tightly, forming small stuffed dough balls. Make sure each ball is sealed well to prevent cheese leakage during baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is well blended and fragrant. Add the dough balls into the bowl a handful at a time, tossing gently so each one becomes coated in the buttery garlic mixture.
As you coat the dough balls, begin layering them into the bundt pan. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese between the layers to create extra flavor pockets as the bread bakes. Continue dipping, coating, and layering until all the dough balls are in the pan and evenly distributed.
Once filled, press lightly to compact the dough without squishing it. This helps the bread hold its shape and ensures beautiful pull-apart layers. Pour any remaining garlic butter mixture over the top. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through. If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
When finished, allow the monkey bread to rest for about 10 minutes to let the structure settle. Carefully flip the bundt pan onto a serving plate. Serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping, and enjoy every cheesy, satisfying pull-apart piece.
Expert Tips for Success
Creating perfect Pizza Monkey Bread comes down to shaping, seasoning, and layering your dough balls correctly. Make sure each dough piece is sealed tightly once stuffed so the cheese stays inside, producing that crave-worthy pull with every bite. Flattening the dough slightly before stuffing gives you more room to work and makes sealing easier.
Tossing the dough balls in garlic butter ensures even seasoning and prevents any bland spots. Be generous with the Parmesan between layers—it melts into the dough and creates a beautiful savory crust throughout the bread.
Another tip is monitoring the bake time based on your pan and oven. Bundt pans vary, so check the bread around the 35-minute mark. The top should be deeply golden and slightly crispy, while the center stays soft and tender.
If you want extra pull-apart cheesiness, add a sprinkle of mozzarella between layers as well. Letting the bread rest before flipping is essential; this keeps the structure intact and prevents tearing. Serve it warm for maximum stretch and flavor. With these tips in mind, your monkey bread will turn out cheesy, golden, and irresistibly delicious every time.
Variations and Substitutions
Pizza Monkey Bread is incredibly customizable, making it an exciting recipe for experimenting with flavors. Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a protein-packed twist. Add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or olives to create a supreme pizza version.
For more heat, include jalapeños or red pepper flakes. You can also change up the cheeses—try cheddar, provolone, or fontina for a richer melt. Want a white pizza flavor? Replace marinara with Alfredo sauce for dipping.
If you’re looking for a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and turkey pepperoni. For a more gourmet spin, stuff the dough with fresh mozzarella pearls and finish the dish with a drizzle of pesto. Vegan biscuit dough, dairy-free cheese, and plant-based meats make this recipe easily adaptable for dietary needs.
The possibilities are endless with such a versatile dish. Whether you love classic pepperoni or creative toppings, this monkey bread adapts effortlessly to every taste preference.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Pizza Monkey Bread steals the spotlight on any appetizer table, but pairing it thoughtfully makes the experience even more enjoyable. Serve it with warm marinara, garlic butter, ranch dressing, or Alfredo sauce for a variety of dipping options.
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp salads like Caesar or Italian chopped salad. Add garlic knots, mozzarella sticks, or antipasto skewers for a complete party spread. For weeknight dinners, serve alongside pasta dishes like spaghetti, fettuccine Alfredo, or lasagna soup for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
For beverages, pair with sparkling water, iced tea, lemonade, or fruit sodas to balance the richness. Adults might enjoy a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Cabernet. If it’s game day, serve it with beer or soft drinks for a classic snack experience.
Pizza Monkey Bread also works great for potlucks and family gatherings because it’s easy to transport and share. Place it on a platter surrounded by dipping bowls for a stylish and inviting presentation. However you serve it, expect enthusiastic compliments and requests for seconds.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
Pizza Monkey Bread stores remarkably well. Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. To reheat, warm pieces in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–12 minutes to restore crisp edges and melty cheese.
Microwaving works too but results in a softer texture. For a crisp finish, use an air fryer set at 350°F (175°C) for five minutes. This reheating method revives the flavors and textures perfectly.
Freezing is another excellent option. Wrap the entire loaf tightly or freeze individual portions in sealed containers. It keeps well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat using the oven or air fryer for best results.
If the bread feels dry after thawing, brush lightly with melted butter before reheating. With proper storage, your monkey bread stays delicious long after baking, making it ideal for meal prep or quick snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to thaw the biscuit dough first?
No—use it straight from the can.
Can I use pizza dough instead of biscuits?
Yes! Cut pizza dough into small pieces and stuff them the same way.
Can I bake this in a regular pan?
A bundt pan works best, but a loaf pan or 9×9 dish also works.
How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?
Seal the dough balls tightly and avoid overfilling.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—assemble, refrigerate, and bake within 24 hours.
