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Everyone in the family goes wild for this Pepperoni Cheesy Bread. It’s loaded with melty mozzarella, crunchy pepperoni, and soft, golden hoagie rolls. Super fast to throw together—you’ll have a fun snack, starter, or tasty side dish in no time. Whip it up for game day or liven up a weeknight. Dip each bite in marinara and you’ll wonder where it all went so quickly!
INGREDIENTS
- Marinara or pizza sauce (for serving): Dunk your cheesy bread in this tangy dip for extra flavor.
- 1/2 cup pepperoni: Pops with crispy edges in the oven, giving a bold and zesty bite.
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Boosts the salty, nutty vibe alongside mozzarella.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The heavenly gooey part that makes this bread so addictive.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Turn up the spice or leave it out—totally your call.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Packs garlicky goodness and the right hit of salt into every slice.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the bread with savory, herby aroma.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Brush onto the rolls for a golden, crunchy finish.
- 2 large hoagie rolls: Your base for piling on all the cheesy and savory layers.
VARIATIONS
- Garlic butter finish: Slather melted garlic butter across the top after baking for extra richness.
- Spicy option: Kick things up with a sprinkle of hot sauce or more chili flakes.
- Veggie lover: Replace the pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for a meatless feast.
- Meaty upgrade: Pile on bacon, sausage, or even chopped ham with the pepperoni for more bite.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 5:
- Let the bread cool for a few minutes. Grab some marinara or pizza sauce for dipping, slice up, and dig in while everything's warm and gooey.
- Step 4:
- Move your bread-loaded hoagie rolls to a baking tray and slide them into the oven for 15 to 18 minutes. Watch for bubbling cheese and golden bread. Want them super toasty? Broil for just a minute or two but stay close so they don’t burn.
- Step 3:
- Add shredded mozzarella first, then scatter the pepperoni all over, and finish with a healthy handful of Parmesan on top.
- Step 2:
- Mix olive oil, garlic salt, Italian herbs, and chili flakes all together in a little bowl. Slather this mix all over the rolls, getting it into every cut so the flavors soak right in.
- Step 1:
- Turn your oven to 350°F. Take both hoagie rolls and slice them nearly through every 2 inches without separating—basically, make a bread row you can pull apart later.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Best eaten warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Works awesome for parties, sports nights, or as an easy treat.
- Stash any extra in a container in the fridge. When you’re ready, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes till they’re back to their crispy selves.
- This cheesy combo also tastes great next to soups, salads, or pasta—makes nearly any meal better.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay: “Get yourself some freshly grated cheese. It melts better and really boosts the flavor and texture.”
- Chef Guy Fieri: “Right before serving, hit it with a little garlic butter for next-level taste!”
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis: “For an amazing finish, toss on some fresh parsley or basil after baking. It adds color and a fresh pop.”