If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and bursting with savory goodness, then you have to try this recipe that will truly Boost Flavor with This Powerful Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe. Imagine layers of rich ground beef, zesty pepperoni, and melty cheeses wrapped inside soft, golden pizza dough, braided to perfection and baked until it’s irresistibly golden. It’s a perfect blend of classic pizza flavors reinvented as a shareable bread that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, classic ingredients that come together beautifully to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and an eye-catching appearance. Each one is thoughtfully included to build layers of flavor and melt-in-your-mouth satisfaction.
- 1/2 lb lean ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base with a rich meaty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon + 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano, divided: Adds aromatic herbiness that brightens the meat and dough.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings warm, subtle spiciness enhancing every bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for rounding out all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 jar pizza sauce, divided: Offers tangy tomato goodness to keep the bread moist and flavorful.
- 1 tube (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough: The soft, pillowy canvas that holds all the delicious fillings.
- 4 slices provolone cheese: Melts beautifully to add a delicate, creamy texture.
- 2 oz thin-sliced pepperoni (about 1/3 cup): Packs in bold, spicy notes for that classic meat lovers vibe.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The ultimate gooey topping that binds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a sharp, nutty finish.
How to Make Boost Flavor with This Powerful Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture
Start by heating a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Cook the beef until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally to break it apart. Once cooked, drain excess fat to keep the bread from becoming greasy. Let the beef cool slightly, then stir in about 1/3 cup of pizza sauce to infuse it with a rich tomato flavor. Set this savory mixture aside — it’s the heart of your powerful meat lovers pizza bread.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough carefully onto a baking sheet. Gently stretch it into a rectangle, giving you plenty of surface area to layer all the ingredients. The dough acts as the sturdy but tender base that will hold everything together.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Fillings
Spread 1/2 cup of pizza sauce right down the center of the dough but keep the sides clear so you have room to fold later. Layer your provolone slices evenly over the sauce, followed by the thin-sliced pepperoni, then the beef mixture you prepared earlier. Finally, sprinkle on a generous cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to make sure every bite has melty cheesiness intertwined with the meats.
Step 4: Braid the Dough
Cut 1-inch wide strips down each side of the dough. This step adds a beautiful braided look and seals in the incredible fillings. Fold the strips over the filling in an alternating braided pattern, working your way from top to bottom. This technique not only looks impressive but also ensures all the flavors stay tucked inside.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the entire dough braid with the melted butter to help create a golden, shiny crust. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining 1/8 teaspoon of dried oregano over the top. These final touches bring an extra layer of richness and a subtle herbal kick.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the braided pizza bread into your preheated 400°F oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through. While it bakes, warm the remaining pizza sauce to serve as a tangy side dip. Once out of the oven, let the bread rest for about 5 minutes before slicing — this allows the cheeses to set just enough so the bread slices cleanly.
How to Serve Boost Flavor with This Powerful Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling some freshly chopped basil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over the bread for a fresh, colorful touch and a bit of heat. A drizzle of good olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the flavor experience even more.
Side Dishes
This pizza bread pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meat and cheese. Roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup also make comforting companions, turning this into a full, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread into thick pieces and serve it on a rustic wooden platter with small bowls of warm pizza sauce and ranch dressing for dipping. For a party, turn it into a buffet-style shareable dish where guests can grab and go, perfect for casual gatherings or game days.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the pizza bread cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. When stored properly, the bread maintains its comforting texture and delicious flavor.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled pizza bread tightly in foil and then place it in a freezer bag or container to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked feeling, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. You can also use a toaster oven for smaller portions. Microwave reheating works but may soften the crust slightly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe features ground beef and pepperoni, you can try Italian sausage, cooked bacon, or even shredded chicken to suit your taste preferences. Just be mindful of the seasoning balance.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meats and increase the amount of cheeses and vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives to keep it hearty and flavorful, still boosting flavor without any meat.
Can I make the dough from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully here. If you have your favorite dough recipe, feel free to swap it in for the refrigerated option.
What is the best pizza sauce to use?
Use a good-quality jarred pizza sauce or homemade sauce with balanced acidity and sweetness. A thicker sauce tends to work better so the bread doesn’t get soggy.
How do I prevent the bread from burning on top?
If your bread is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil halfway through baking. This helps the interior cook fully without over-browning the crust.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving an indulgent dinner, you really can’t go wrong with this recipe to Boost Flavor with This Powerful Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe. It’s a fun twist on classic pizza, serving up layers of meats, cheeses, and rich sauce wrapped in golden, buttery bread that’s as satisfying to look at as it is to eat. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite for all your gatherings and cozy nights in.
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Boost Flavor with This Powerful Meat Lovers Pizza Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Meat Lovers Pizza Bread is a flavorful and hearty twist on traditional pizza, combining seasoned ground beef, pepperoni, and layers of melted cheese braided in a golden, buttery pizza dough. Perfect for sharing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare and bake, served with warm pizza sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1/2 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/3 cup pizza sauce (from the jar, divided)
Pizza Bread
- 1 jar pizza sauce (about 12–16 oz), divided
- 1 tube (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 2 oz thin-sliced pepperoni (about 1/3 cup)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano (remaining)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Beef: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, garlic powder, and kosher salt until the beef is fully browned. Drain off any excess fat to prevent greasiness.
- Mix Beef with Sauce: Let the cooked beef cool slightly, then stir in 1/3 cup of pizza sauce to infuse it with extra flavor. Set this mixture aside for assembly.
- Prepare Dough Base: Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment or lightly greased. Gently stretch the dough into a rectangular shape, being careful not to tear it.
- Add Sauce: Spread 1/2 cup of pizza sauce evenly down the center of the stretched dough, leaving the sides clear for folding.
- Layer Toppings: Over the sauce, layer the 4 slices of provolone cheese, followed by the pepperoni slices, the beef and sauce mixture, and finish with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Braid the Dough: Cut 1-inch-wide strips down both sides of the dough. Alternately fold these strips over the filling in a braided pattern, enclosing the toppings securely within the dough.
- Brush and Season: Brush the entire dough braid with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining 1/8 teaspoon of dried oregano to add a savory crust.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through. While the bread bakes, warm the remaining pizza sauce for dipping.
- Serve: Remove the pizza bread from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Slice the bread and serve warm with the heated pizza sauce on the side.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat during cooking.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Ensure the dough is not stretched too thin to prevent tearing during braiding.
- Substitute mozzarella with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a sharper flavor.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and melted cheese.
