Delicious Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your game day spread with a show-stopping dish that will have everyone coming back for more? Look no further than this crowd-pleasing recipe for Meat Lovers Pizza Bread! This savory creation combines seasoned ground beef, crispy pepperoni, and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped up in golden dough for a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, gathering with friends, or simply craving a hearty snack, this pizza bread is sure to steal the show.

I first discovered the magic of this Meat Lovers Pizza Bread after countless kitchen experiments aimed at finding the perfect blend of pizza flavors in a conveniently portable form. The result? A dish that strikes the perfect balance between familiar comfort and special indulgence. From family gatherings to neighborhood potlucks, this recipe has become a staple that always earns rave reviews. Just ask my brother-in-law Dave, who went from self-proclaimed non-cook to hero of every family barbecue thanks to this mouthwatering creation. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and get ready to impress your guests with this delectable Meat Lovers Pizza Bread that’s bound to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Quick Benefits

• Portable twist on classic pizza flavors
• Versatile – can be customized with different meats and veggies
• Perfect for gatherings and parties
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for easy meal prep

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe Recipe

• Flavorful and Versatile: The seasoned ground beef, crispy pepperoni, and melted cheese trio wrapped in golden dough create a rich and savory taste that is perfect for any occasion.
• Crowd Favorite: This recipe has become a staple at gatherings and parties, loved by both family and friends. It’s a surefire hit that will have guests coming back for more.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe comes together easily, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress.
• Customizable: The recipe offers various options for customization, such as swapping meats or creating vegetarian versions, allowing you to cater to different preferences and dietary needs.
• Perfect for Game Day: Ideal for game day snacks, the meat lovers pizza bread pairs wonderfully with other classic football foods like nachos and buffalo chicken dip, keeping everyone satisfied.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for days and can be frozen for up to three months. Reheating instructions ensure that the bread retains its crispy exterior and delicious flavors.
• Instagram-Worthy: The cheese stretches and pulls beautifully when served warm, creating a visual delight that is sure to impress guests and make your social media followers drool.

Ingredients for Delicious Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe

Seasoned Beef Filling

• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 jar pizza sauce, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon + 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
• 1/2 lb lean ground beef

Pizza Bread Assembly

• 2 oz thin-sliced pepperoni (about 1/3 cup)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 slices provolone cheese
• 1 tube (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough

Finishing Touches

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Delicious Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Oven and Cook Beef

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Cook ground beef in a large non-stick skillet with oregano, garlic powder, and kosher salt until browned, stirring often. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Season the Meat

Allow the cooked beef to cool slightly before stirring in 1/3 cup of pizza sauce. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Pizza Dough

Place the pizza dough on a baking sheet with shallow sides. Stretch gently to form a rectangle shape, if necessary.

Step 4: Add Base Layer

Spread a 1/2 cup of pizza sauce down the center of the dough, leaving ample dough on both sides for braiding.

Step 5: Layer the Fillings

Layer provolone cheese slices, pepperoni, seasoned ground beef mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

Step 6: Create Braided Effect

With a sharp knife, cut 1-inch wide strips along both sides of the dough towards the filling, keeping the filling area untouched. Then, fold the strips from each side over the filling in a braided pattern.

Step 7: Add Final Toppings

Apply melted butter to the braided dough, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining 1/8 teaspoon of oregano.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. Heat the remaining pizza sauce for dipping while waiting.

Step 9: Serve with Sauce

Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then slice. Serve warm with heated pizza sauce for dipping.

Storage Tips

Once the meat lovers pizza bread is baked and cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep it fresh, wrap the bread tightly in foil or place it in airtight containers before refrigerating. When ready to reheat, it is recommended to use the oven instead of the microwave to maintain the crispy exterior. Wrap individual slices in foil and heat them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for eight to ten minutes for a delicious, warm result.

For longer storage, the meat lovers pizza bread can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, tightly wrap the bread in plastic wrap first, followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven following the same instructions as for refrigerated bread. Freezing and reheating the pizza bread this way will help preserve its flavors and textures, providing a convenient option for future meals or gatherings.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different flavor profile, consider substituting the lean ground beef with spicy Italian sausage. The fennel seeds in the sausage pair well with the pepperoni, adding a kick of heat and extra depth to the filling. This swap can offer a more complex and savory taste to the pizza bread, perfect for those who enjoy a spicier twist on classic meat lovers’ flavors.

To cater to vegetarian guests, you can create a meat-free version by replacing all the meat with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. This substitution provides a hearty and flavorful alternative, still delivering a satisfying umami-rich filling. The combination of these vegetables will add a delightful earthiness and texture to the bread, making it a welcomed option for those looking for a plant-based twist.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive party appetizer, serve the Meat Lovers Pizza Bread as a DIY pizza bread bar. Set out bowls of extra toppings like diced bell peppers, olives, and mushrooms, along with different types of cheese such as cheddar or feta. Let guests customize their own sections of the pizza bread before baking, creating a personalized and delicious experience for everyone.

To elevate your brunch spread, transform the Meat Lovers Pizza Bread into individual mini pizza bread muffins. Use a muffin tin to create bite-sized portions of the pizza bread, perfect for brunch buffets or breakfast on-the-go. Serve these mini muffins with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and watch as they disappear in no time.

FAQs for Delicious Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can customize the cheese in this recipe to your preference. Feel free to substitute provolone with your favorite cheese or mix different types for a unique flavor profile.

Can I make this pizza bread in advance for a party?

Absolutely! This pizza bread can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply reheat it in the oven wrapped in foil for a few minutes to enjoy it warm and crispy.

Can I freeze the meat lovers pizza bread?

Yes, you can freeze the pizza bread for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for a delicious treat that tastes almost as good as fresh.

How can I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

To avoid a soggy bottom, make sure to drain the cooked ground beef before assembling the bread. Also, be careful not to overstuff the bread, as it can lead to burst seams and filling spilling out during baking.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, Meat Lovers Pizza Bread is a delicious and versatile recipe that never fails to impress. The layers of seasoned ground beef, crispy pepperoni, and gooey cheese wrapped in golden dough create a harmony of flavors that will have your guests coming back for more. Don’t be intimidated by the braiding technique or the thought of homemade bread – with a little practice, you’ll be a pro in no time.

Experiment with different variations of Meat Lovers Pizza Bread to suit any occasion or dietary preference. From spicy Italian sausage to veggie-packed options, the possibilities are endless. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a convenient make-ahead dish that you can enjoy for days. So go ahead, whip up a batch of Meat Lovers Pizza Bread, and watch as it becomes a staple in your entertaining repertoire. Your family and friends will thank you for introducing them to this delicious twist on classic pizza flavors.