Name: Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb pizza dough, room temperature; 7 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into 5 pieces each; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon water; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dusting); 1 cup marinara sauce (for serving)

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I enjoy making this cheesy pull-apart bread whenever I want something warm, comforting, and fun to share. It comes together with soft pizza dough, melted mozzarella, and fragrant herbed butter, creating a dish that feels cozy and satisfying without being complicated. I like how everyone can simply pull off a piece and enjoy that stretchy, gooey cheese while it’s still warm. Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser. The pull-apart style makes it perfect for sharing, and every bite is filled with melted cheese. I also appreciate how easy it is to prepare ahead of time, which helps when I’m hosting. It’s versatile, customizable, and works just as well for casual gatherings as it does for special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb pizza dough, room temperature
7 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into 5 pieces each
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
1/4 cup all-purpose flour, for dusting
1 cup marinara sauce, for serving

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 450°F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. I cut the mozzarella sticks into small pieces so each dough ball has a cheesy center. I lightly flour my work surface, divide the pizza dough in half, and roll each portion into a long rectangle.

I cut the dough into small squares and place one piece of mozzarella in the center of each square. I wrap the dough around the cheese, pinch the seams tightly, and gently roll it into a smooth ball. I arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the baking sheet, keeping them close so they bake into a pull-apart loaf.

I whisk the egg with water and brush it evenly over the dough balls. I bake until the bread is puffed and golden. While it bakes, I mix the melted butter with parmesan, parsley, rosemary, basil, and red pepper flakes. As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, I brush it generously with the herbed butter and serve it warm with marinara sauce.

Servings And Timing

I usually get about 12 servings from this recipe. Prep time takes around 25 minutes, and baking takes 15 to 20 minutes. From start to finish, I can have it ready in about 45 minutes.

Variations

I like swapping mozzarella for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses when I want a different flavor. Sometimes I mix minced garlic into the melted butter for a stronger savory taste. When I want a bit of heat, I add extra crushed red pepper flakes. I also enjoy changing the herbs based on what I have available, such as thyme or oregano.

Storage/Reheating

If there are leftovers, I let the bread cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, I wrap it in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until the cheese melts again. I avoid reheating in the microwave because it can make the bread chewy.

FAQs

Can I Use Homemade Pizza Dough?

I often use homemade dough, and it works perfectly as long as it’s soft and rested before shaping.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

I like assembling the dough balls a few hours in advance and keeping them refrigerated until I’m ready to bake.

Why Did My Cheese Leak Out?

This usually happens when the dough isn’t sealed tightly. I make sure to pinch the seams well and place them seam-side down.

Can I Skip The Egg Wash?

I sometimes brush the dough with olive oil instead. It still browns nicely, just with a softer shine.

What Can I Serve With This Bread?

I enjoy serving it with marinara sauce, soups, salads, or as part of a shared appetizer spread.

Conclusion

This cheesy pull-apart bread is one of my favorite recipes to make because it’s comforting, easy, and perfect for sharing. I love how it brings people together around the table and disappears quickly once it’s served. Warm, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s a recipe I always enjoy making again.