Special Pepperoni Garlic Bread

Ingredients

• 1 large loaf French bread (or Italian bread), halved lengthwise

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• 20–25 slices pepperoni (more if you like it loaded!)

• ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara (optional, for dipping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the garlic butter: In a bowl, mix butter, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

3. Prepare the bread: Place bread halves on the baking sheet, cut side up. Spread garlic butter evenly over both halves.

4. Layer toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the bread. Arrange pepperoni slices on top.

5. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden.

6. Optional broil: For extra crisp pepperoni and browned cheese, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

7. Serve: Slice into pieces and serve hot with warm pizza sauce or marinara for dipping.