Pepperoni Pizza Braid

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid-friendly: A great recipe to involve the kids in the kitchen!
• Customizable: Swap out the fillings to create your own favorite flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 20-25 slices pepperoni
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Braid

Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the pizza sauce down the center of the dough, leaving about 3 inches of space on each side.

Step 3: Add the Fillings

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Layer the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.

Step 4: Cut and Braid the Dough

Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart along both sides of the dough, stopping about 1 inch away from the filling. Fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braid pattern.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush the top of the braid with this mixture. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into pieces and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for the Best Pizza Braid

• Keep the dough chilled: Working with cold dough makes it easier to handle and braid.
• Customize the fillings: Add your favorite toppings like mushrooms, olives, or cooked sausage for a unique twist.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Serving Suggestions

This Pepperoni Pizza Braid pairs perfectly with a side salad or a bowl of minestrone soup. It’s also a fantastic appetizer for parties and game nights!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pizza braid and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just brush with the garlic butter mixture right before baking.

Can I freeze the pizza braid?

Absolutely. Wrap the unbaked braid tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a bit of blue cheese for a bolder flavor.