Get ready to wow your game-day crowd with this irresistible Play Off Pepperoni Mozzarella Loaf! This pull-apart bread masterpiece combines the buttery richness of garlic-seasoned French bread with ooey-gooey melted mozzarella and the savory kick of pepperoni. Perfectly golden and sprinkled with Parmesan and optional fresh parsley, it’s baked to perfection in under 30 minutes. The easy-to-make diamond-cut pattern allows the flavors of garlicky butter, cheese, and pepperoni to infuse every bite. Serve it warm for the ultimate appetizer or snack that’s both shareable and loaded with flavor—ideal for your next sports viewing party or casual gathering!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Take the French bread loaf and carefully make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart across the top of the loaf, stopping short of cutting all the way through to the bottom. Then, make diagonal cuts in the opposite direction to form a diamond pattern. The loaf should stay intact but allow room for stuffing.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning and remove from heat.
Using a pastry brush or spoon, drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly into the crevices of the bread.
Stuff the shredded mozzarella cheese into the cuts, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the loaf. Follow by stuffing the pepperoni slices into the same crevices, tucking them alongside the cheese.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the entire loaf for an extra cheesy topping.
Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet and wrap it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let the loaf cool slightly. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish, if desired.
Serve warm and pull apart pieces for the perfect game-day snack or appetizer!
Calories |
4013 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 260.6 g | 334% | |
| Saturated Fat | 118.4 g | 592% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 701 mg | 234% | |
| Sodium | 10025 mg | 436% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 231.3 g | 84% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.5 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.1 g | ||
| Protein | 169.1 g | 338% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1598 mg | 123% | |
| Iron | 18.5 mg | 103% | |
| Potassium | 1824 mg | 39% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.