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Football Shaped Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Pull Apart Bread

A playful and comforting pull-apart bread filled with gooey cheese and fragrant garlic, perfect for gatherings on game nights or family dinners.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough and Cheese
  • 2 cans (16-ounce) refrigerated pizza dough or 1 pound fresh pizza dough Store-bought works beautifully.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella Or provolone for a creamier pull; swap for part cheddar for tang.
  • 1 cup shredded parmesan, finely grated Adds a salty pop.
Flavor Enhancers
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Plus extra for brushing.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Yields a golden, buttery crust.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Swap with roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped Or substitute with basil.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for a hint of heat.
  • 1 large egg, beaten For egg wash.
  • 1 small ball of dough or extra dough scraps Optional, to form laces.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly dust with flour.
  2. Prepare the garlic butter by whisking melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
  3. Roll out the pizza dough into an oval about 12 by 9 inches.
  4. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and half of the parmesan over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
  5. Fold the dough in half lengthwise, sealing the edges with a light pinch, and cut diagonal slits on each side.
  6. Brush the loaf generously with garlic butter, ensuring some gets tucked into the cuts.
  7. Gently curve the ends to shape it like a football. If using extra dough, create laces and brush with egg wash.
Baking
  1. Lightly brush the whole loaf with the beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown and bubbly.
  2. Allow the bread to cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

For a healthier option, use whole-wheat dough and part-skim cheeses. For extra indulgence, hide in small cubes of ham or cooked sausage.