I really enjoy making this meat lovers pizza bread when I want something filling, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The soft pizza dough bakes up golden and wraps around a rich filling of seasoned beef, pepperoni, marinara sauce, and melted cheeses. It feels like a complete comfort meal in every slice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it turns classic meat lovers pizza flavors into a fun and satisfying bread. It is easy to prepare, great for sharing, and works well for dinner, parties, or casual weekends. I also like how the braided dough keeps the filling warm and melty inside.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 lb lean ground beef
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Italian blend cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1 lb pizza dough
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
I begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. I season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the oregano, then drain excess grease.
I stir the marinara sauce into the beef and set it aside to cool slightly.
I roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. I spoon the beef mixture down the center of the dough, then layer the pepperoni and both cheeses evenly over the top.
I cut strips along each side of the dough and braid them over the filling, sealing the ends underneath.
I brush the dough with olive oil, sprinkle the remaining oregano and Parmesan on top, and place it on the baking sheet.
I bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted. I let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Servings And Timing
I usually get 6 servings from this recipe.
Prep time takes about 15 minutes, baking time is 30 minutes, and the total time comes to approximately 45 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer warming slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp. I use the microwave only when I need a quick option.
FAQs
Can I Use Homemade Pizza Dough?
I often use homemade dough when I have extra time, and it works just as well as store-bought.
Can I Add More Cheese?
I sometimes add extra mozzarella if I want the filling to be extra gooey.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?
I assemble the pizza bread ahead of time and refrigerate it for several hours before baking.
What Can I Serve With Pizza Bread?
I like serving it with a simple green salad or extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Can I Freeze Meat Lovers Pizza Bread?
I freeze it after baking and cooling completely, then reheat it in the oven until hot all the way through.
Conclusion
I find this meat lovers pizza bread to be a comforting and satisfying recipe that brings bold flavors together in one dish. It is easy to make, perfect for sharing, and always a hit whenever I serve it.
A hearty and cheesy meat lovers pizza bread filled with seasoned beef, pepperoni, marinara, and melted cheeses, all wrapped in golden pizza dough. Great for dinner, parties, or weekend treats.
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Ingredients
1/2 lb lean ground beef
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Italian blend cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1 lb pizza dough
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the oregano. Drain excess grease.
Stir marinara sauce into the cooked beef and set aside to cool slightly.
Roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
Spoon the beef mixture down the center of the dough. Layer pepperoni and both cheeses evenly on top.
Cut strips along each side of the dough and braid them over the filling, tucking ends underneath.
Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with remaining oregano and Parmesan (if using).
Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use homemade or store-bought pizza dough.
For extra gooeyness, add more mozzarella.
Serve with marinara sauce or a green salad.
Freeze after baking and reheat in oven for best texture.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking if desired.
