Ingredients
- 1 can (8-count) Pillsbury Grands biscuits
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing the pan)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and basil)
- 1 cup pizza sauce (adjust to your preference)
- ½ cup pepperoni slices (or your choice of toppings)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- 8×8-inch baking dish or bundt pan (lightly greased)
- Kitchen scissors or a knife for cutting biscuits
- Silicone brush for applying olive oil
- Small bowl for seasoning mix
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or follow the temperature directions on the biscuit can. Ensure your rack is in the middle position for even cooking. - Prepare the Dough:
- Open the can of biscuits and separate them into individual pieces.
- Use kitchen scissors or a knife to cut each biscuit into 4 equal pieces.
(Tip: For smaller bites, cut each biscuit into 6 pieces instead.)
- Season the Dough:
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Place the biscuit pieces in a large mixing bowl, pour the seasoned olive oil over the pieces, and toss gently until all the dough pieces are coated evenly.
- Layer the Dish:
- Lightly grease your baking dish or bundt pan with olive oil or nonstick spray.
- Spread half of the seasoned biscuit pieces evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add a layer of pepperoni slices (or other toppings).
- Spoon half of the pizza sauce over the dough pieces.
- Sprinkle with ¾ cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat Layers:
- Add the remaining biscuit pieces over the first layer.
- Repeat the layering process: pepperoni, sauce, and cheese.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor.
- For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Check for doneness: The biscuits should be puffed up, golden brown, and fully cooked in the center. If the cheese browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil and continue baking.
(Tip: Insert a toothpick into the center to ensure the dough is baked through.)
- Cool and Garnish:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes. This helps the layers set slightly and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with extra pizza sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter dipping sauce on the side.
Pro Tips for Success
- For a Crispy Bottom: Use a cast iron skillet instead of a baking dish for extra crispiness.
- Layer Balance: Avoid overloading with sauce or toppings, which might make the dish soggy. Instead, keep layers thin and evenly spread.
- Cooking Time Adjustment: If using a bundt pan, bake for 30–35 minutes and test for doneness in the center.
- Cheese Choices: Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a gooey, flavorful experience.
Customization Ideas
- Veggie Lovers: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or olives.
- Meat Lovers: Use cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, or ham alongside the pepperoni.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or drizzle with hot honey after baking.
- Cheese Explosion: Add dollops of ricotta or sprinkle shredded Parmesan between the layers.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a snack for game nights, a shareable appetizer at parties, or a quick dinner with a fresh side salad.
- Pair with garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks for a full pizza-inspired feast!
This Pull-Apart Pizza (Monkey Bread) is an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that’s endlessly adaptable to your taste. It’s so good, you might just want to make two!