I love this recipe because it combines all the best parts of pizza—warm dough, melty cheese, and flavorful toppings—into an interactive pull-apart experience. It’s easy to customize with whatever ingredients I have on hand, and it looks impressive when served straight from the oven. The twists create crispy edges and soft, cheesy centers, making every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet fun enough for entertaining.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) 1 cup pizza sauce 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup assorted toppings (pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, etc.)
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a round baking dish. Then I roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
Next, I spread an even layer of pizza sauce over the dough, sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella, and add my favorite toppings—pepperoni, olives, or mushrooms are my go-to choices. I then cut the dough into strips about two inches wide.
Each strip gets a gentle twist before I stand them upright in the prepared baking dish. Once all the strips are in place, I bake the twisted pizza for 25–30 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and bubbly.
I let it cool for a few minutes before serving it warm. The result is a pull-apart masterpiece that’s crispy on the outside and perfectly cheesy inside.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 8 people. Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I brush the top with melted garlic butter before baking for extra flavor. When I want a little spice, I sprinkle red pepper flakes over the sauce. I also love experimenting with different cheeses—like provolone, cheddar, or parmesan—for a richer flavor. For a vegetarian version, I load it up with bell peppers, onions, and spinach. To make it heartier, I add cooked sausage or bacon bits.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the pieces in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. If I’m in a hurry, I microwave them for 20–30 seconds, though baking keeps the crust crispier. For longer storage, I freeze the baked twists and reheat them directly from frozen at 350°F until hot.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I assemble the twisted dough, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. I just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
What toppings work best?
I like to keep it classic with pepperoni and mozzarella, but mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, and cooked sausage all work great.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely. Store-bought dough makes this recipe quick and convenient, but homemade dough adds an extra touch of flavor.
How do I keep it from getting soggy?
I avoid overloading the dough with sauce or toppings and make sure it bakes until golden and crisp.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes, I sometimes use pesto, Alfredo, or barbecue sauce for a fun twist on the flavor.
What type of pan works best?
A round baking dish or cast-iron skillet gives even baking and a nice golden crust.
Can I add garlic butter to the top?
Definitely. I love brushing melted garlic butter or olive oil on top before baking for extra richness and shine.
How do I serve it?
I like to serve it warm with extra pizza sauce or marinara on the side for dipping.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, I use gluten-free pizza dough and follow the same steps. It turns out just as delicious.
How long does it stay fresh?
When stored properly, it stays fresh for about 3 days in the fridge, though it’s best enjoyed the day it’s baked.
Conclusion
I love how this pull apart twisted pizza turns a simple pizza night into something exciting and interactive. The combination of crispy edges, gooey cheese, and customizable fillings makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night at home, this fun twist on pizza always hits the spot.
A fun and shareable pull apart twisted pizza made with gooey mozzarella, flavorful toppings, and golden, crispy dough. Perfect for parties, game nights, or family dinners, this interactive twist on pizza is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Ingredients
1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup assorted toppings (pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, etc.)
Optional: melted garlic butter or olive oil for brushing
Optional: red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a round baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
Add desired toppings such as pepperoni, olives, or mushrooms.
Cut the dough into strips about 2 inches wide.
Gently twist each strip and stand them upright in the prepared baking dish.
Brush the tops with melted garlic butter or olive oil if desired.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Serve with extra pizza sauce or marinara for dipping.
Notes
Brush the top with melted garlic butter or olive oil before baking for extra flavor.
Try different cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or parmesan for a richer taste.
Use pesto, Alfredo, or barbecue sauce as alternatives to pizza sauce for variety.
For a vegetarian version, use bell peppers, onions, spinach, and mushrooms as toppings.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp.
