When it comes to pizza night, why settle for ordinary when you can make it extraordinary? The Cheesy Bites Pizza takes everyone’s favorite comfort food and adds a playful twist — soft, pull-apart cheesy bites lining the crust. Each bite bursts with gooey cheese, making every slice both satisfying and fun to eat.
Perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or even weekend indulgence, this recipe combines the joy of homemade pizza with the comfort of melty, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
- 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling and Toppings:
- 20–24 small mozzarella cubes (about 1-inch each)
- 1 ½ cups (350ml) pizza sauce
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup pepperoni slices (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing crust)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Rise time: 1 hour
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Cheesy Bites
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll dough into a 14-inch circle. Place mozzarella cubes around the edge.
- Fold the dough over each cube and pinch tightly to seal, forming cheesy bites around the rim.
Step 3: Add the Pizza Toppings
- Spread pizza sauce over the center of the dough.
- Sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Add pepperoni slices or your favorite toppings.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
- Brush cheesy bites with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot — dip the cheesy bites in extra marinara sauce for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic dipping sauce or ranch dressing.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a colorful twist.
- Make it a party centerpiece — guests will love pulling apart the cheesy bites.
- Pair with a fresh Caesar salad or crispy potato wedges for a full meal.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1 of 8 slices) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 12 grams |
| Total Fat | 14 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 36 grams |
| Sugars | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 620 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Mozzarella cheese provides protein and calcium while delivering that gooey texture.
- Homemade dough offers a fresher, healthier option compared to store-bought crusts.
- Adding vegetables as toppings increases fiber and vitamins.
- Can be made lighter by using part-skim mozzarella and reducing butter on the crust.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Make sure the mozzarella bites are sealed well to prevent cheese from leaking while baking.
- For extra flavor, brush the crust with herb-infused butter before baking.
- Use a pizza stone if available for a crispier base.
- Customize the cheesy bites with flavored cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack.
The Cheesy Bites Pizza is more than just dinner — it’s an experience. With its pull-apart, cheese-filled crust and customizable toppings, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re making it for a casual family meal or a fun gathering with friends, this pizza promises maximum flavor and plenty of smiles.