Ever thought about sinking your teeth into a golden-brown, cheesy, garlic-infused delight that practically melts in your mouth? Say hello to the ultimate game day snack that’s sure to steal the spotlight: Football Shaped Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Pull Apart Bread! This recipe is a fun twist on traditional pull-apart bread, featuring gooey mozzarella and glittering with garlicky goodness, all shaped like your favorite sports ball. Perfect for sharing, or not… we won’t tell!
Why Make This Recipe
Why wouldn’t you want to make it? First off, this pull-apart bread is super easy to whip up, so you don’t have to stress about complicated instructions while you’re cheering on your team. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—it’s one baking sheet, people! And let’s face it, kids and adults alike will go wild dipping those warm, cheesy pieces into marinara sauce. Who says appetizers can’t be a blast?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce for dipping
Directions
Let’s get started on this cheesy masterpiece:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into small squares.
- Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each square.
- Pinch the dough to seal it, then shape it into a ball.
- Arrange the dough balls in a football shape on a baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix together melted butter, garlic, parsley, oregano, and salt.
- Brush this cheesy goodness over the dough balls.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
How to Make Football Shaped Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Pull Apart Bread (Overview)
This recipe is all about fun and flavor! First, roll out your pizza dough, cut it into squares, and place that irresistible mozzarella at the center. When you close the dough around the cheese, you’re basically creating little pockets of joy! Shape them into a football, and don’t forget to slather on that buttery garlic melt before they hit the oven. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic—it elevates the whole dish!
How to Serve Football Shaped Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Pull Apart Bread
When it comes to serving, think fun and festive! Arrange your pull-apart bread on a large platter, pairing it with a vibrant bowl of marinara sauce. The contrasting colors—golden brown dough and a rich red sauce—are not just a feast for the eyes. The aroma? Oh, you’ll find everyone wandering into the kitchen just to get a whiff of that cheesy garlic goodness!
How to Store Football Shaped Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Pull Apart Bread
If there are any leftovers (which is a big “if”), you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Want to save some for later? Freeze the baked bread for up to a month! Just reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick snack that brings back those cozy game day vibes.
Tips to Make Football Shaped Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Pull Apart Bread
- Time-saver tip: Use store-bought pizza dough for an even quicker prep!
- Experiment: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack if you’re in the mood for a spicy kick.
- Texture tip: Let the dough balls rest for a few minutes before baking to help them puff up nicely.
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Throw in some chopped pepperoni or spinach for a twist! Vegan? Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and plant-based butter to make it a tasty, plant-powered treat!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen pizza dough?
Absolutely! Just thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results.
2. How can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the dough balls and refrigerate them (covered) for up to a day. Bake them fresh when you’re ready!
3. Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Sure! Just use gluten-free pizza dough, and you’re set for your gluten-free pals.
Now, who’s ready to dive into some cheesy deliciousness? 📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Football Shaped Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Pull Apart Bread
Ingredients
Dough and filling
- 1 lb pizza dough Store-bought or homemade.
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes You can substitute with pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Butter and seasonings
- 1/2 cup butter, melted For brushing over the dough balls.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced To enhance flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped Can use dried if fresh is unavailable.
- 1 tsp dried oregano Adds additional flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt For seasoning.
Dipping sauce
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce For dipping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into small squares.
- Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each square.
- Pinch the dough to seal it, then shape it into a ball.
- Arrange the dough balls in a football shape on a baking sheet.
Baking
- In a bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, and salt.
- Brush this mixture over the shaped dough balls.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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