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Better than pizza

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Written By Hayyat

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Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4-6


Ingredients:

For the Bread:

  • 1 loaf of Italian bread (about 12-14 inches long, or a French baguette if preferred)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, minced (or 2 teaspoons garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Stuffing:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and provolone for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup pepperoni slices, or your favorite pizza toppings (like sausage, mushrooms, or bell peppers)
  • 1/2 cup fresh spinach (optional, for a fresh and slightly earthy flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra kick)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

Equipment:

  • 1 large baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil (optional, to keep the bread soft and warm)
  • A sharp serrated knife for cutting the bread
  • A small bowl for mixing the garlic butter
  • Spatula or spoon for spreading butter and stuffing

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

Time: 5 minutes

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until the butter and spices are fully incorporated. This mixture will infuse the bread with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Slice the Bread

Time: 5 minutes

  1. Take your Italian loaf and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the loaf in half lengthwise, making two long halves.
  2. Slice each half into several sections (about 2-3 inches wide), being careful not to cut all the way through to the bottom. This creates “pockets” in the bread where you will stuff the filling.

Step 3: Stuff the Bread with Garlic Butter

Time: 5 minutes

  1. Take your garlic butter mixture and generously spread it into the cuts of the bread, making sure to coat each pocket well. Use a spoon or spatula to press the butter into the cuts.
  2. After the bread is fully coated with the garlic butter, move on to the next step!

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing

Time: 5 minutes

  1. In a bowl, mix together the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If you’re using spinach or any other vegetables (like mushrooms or peppers), chop them up finely and set them aside.
  2. Layer the cheese mixture into the pockets of the bread, making sure to distribute it evenly throughout the slices. Don’t be shy—load up the bread! Add your pepperoni slices (or any other toppings you prefer) between the cheese layers, ensuring that you stuff each pocket.
  3. If you’re using spinach, tuck a few leaves into the layers of cheese for added flavor and freshness. It will balance the richness of the cheese and add some color.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Garlic Bread

Time: 20-25 minutes

  1. Once your bread is generously stuffed, transfer it to your prepared baking sheet. You can wrap the bread loosely in aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes of baking to help the cheese melt properly without over-browning the bread.
  2. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, and the top of the bread is golden brown and crispy.
  3. For a more crisped-up top, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking, allowing the cheese and bread to get a nice golden finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Time: 5 minutes

  1. After removing the stuffed garlic bread from the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly.
  2. Garnish the bread with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
  3. Serve the bread with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. This adds a nice tomato-based contrast to the richness of the cheese and garlic butter.

Notes:

  • Customization Options: This stuffed garlic bread recipe is perfect for experimentation. You can easily swap out the pepperoni for other pizza toppings like sausage, mushrooms, or bell peppers. If you want a more gourmet option, try adding sautéed onions, fresh basil leaves, or even bacon bits. You can also opt for a combination of mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone cheeses, depending on your preference.
  • Make-Ahead Instructions: You can prepare the stuffed garlic bread ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let the bread sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then bake as directed. You can also freeze the stuffed bread (before baking) and bake it from frozen—just add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time.
  • Healthier Alternatives: To lighten up this recipe, you can use whole wheat bread or a low-carb alternative. You could also use reduced-fat cheese and skip the pepperoni in favor of vegetables. This makes for a much lighter but still satisfying option.
  • Leftovers: Leftover stuffed garlic bread can be wrapped tightly in foil and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through.
  • Serving Suggestions: This stuffed garlic bread is rich enough to serve as a main dish, but it pairs beautifully with a light salad or a bowl of soup (think tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combo). You can also serve it alongside a cheese board or as an appetizer at a party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Better than Pizza: While pizza is amazing, this stuffed garlic bread takes it to the next level by combining the flavors of pizza with the irresistible appeal of garlic bread. The gooey cheese, savory toppings, and buttery garlic flavor will make you question why you ever needed a pizza crust!
  • Cheese Lover’s Dream: If you love cheese, this dish is a dream come true. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan, along with any additional toppings you choose, creates a cheesy explosion in every bite.
  • Easy to Make: While it may look impressive, this recipe is incredibly easy to put together. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone looking to make a fun, indulgent dish with minimal effort.
  • Family and Party Favorite: Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner, a family meal, or as an appetizer for a party, this stuffed garlic bread will impress and satisfy everyone. It’s shareable, delicious, and guaranteed to disappear fast!

This Stuffed Garlic Bread with Cheese and Pepperoni is the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and flavorful ingredients that rival your favorite pizza, but with the added indulgence of buttery garlic bread. With customizable toppings and a golden, crispy finish, it’s truly “better than pizza.” It’s an easy-to-make comfort food that will be a hit at any gathering or family dinner! Enjoy!

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