Pizza Braid
There is something about a recipe that checks every box, and this Pizza Braid does exactly that! To begin with, it starts with a simple roll of Pillsbury Pizza Crust, and then transforms into a warm, cheesy, crowd pleasing favorite that feels special without requiring extra effort. In addition, whether you are hosting friends, planning snacks for the big game, or simply need something reliable and delicious, this recipe consistently comes through. Not only is it easy to make, but it also delivers flavors and presentation that impress every time.
This is one of my favorite things to have the ingredients for in my fridge. Because it is so easy to make, this Pizza Braid is perfect for Super Bowl parties, Football Sundays, and casual get togethers where you want food everyone will actually eat. There are layers of melty cheese and pepperoni that get wrapped into the dough, then baked until the outside turns slightly crunchy and golden. While it cooks, all those classic pizza flavors come together, creating that familiar, comforting bite that disappears fast once it hits the table.
At the same time, this recipe works just as well for busy weeknights or anytime you need a quick, satisfying meal. When dinner needs to happen quickly, this Pizza Braid keeps things simple and kid friendly, while still delivering all the rich, comforting flavors everyone loves. Moreover, families enjoy it because it feels fun and different, yet at the same time, it still provides everything people crave in a classic pizza. Whether you are feeding picky eaters or hosting a casual meal, this recipe makes mealtime both easy and enjoyable.
Because of all that, this has become a go to in our house! It is the recipe we make when friends ask us to bring a shareable, when we want something easy but impressive, or when we just need a no stress dinner everyone will enjoy. Once you try it, it is easy to see why this Pizza Braid earns a permanent spot in the rotation!
Jump to:
Ingredients
- Pillsbury Pizza Crust in a can
- Pepperonis
- Mozzarella Cheese
- Chihuahua Cheese (optional)
- Grated Parmesan
- Butter
- Minced Garlic
- Italian Seasoning
- Pizza or Pasta Sauce (something similar to Marinara)
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Step 1: First, preheat the oven to 400 degrees. While it heats, lightly grease a 13x9 inch baking sheet. Then roll out the Pillsbury Pizza Dough onto the pan and gently stretch it so it covers the sheet without tearing.
- Step 2: Next, build the center layer. Spread 4 tablespoons of pizza or pasta sauce straight down the middle of the dough, leaving space on both sides for braiding.
- Step 3: Then add the cheese and toppings. Sprinkle 1 cup of Chihuahua cheese over the sauce (or swap in mozzarella!) After that, line up pepperonis across the center, using as many or as few as you like. Finish with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top. Optional but recommended: Sprinkle Italian seasoning lightly over the cheese to add flavor without overpowering the filling.
- Step 4: Now prepare the dough for braiding. Use kitchen shears to cut strips along both long sides of the dough, stopping right where the toppings begin. Aim for about 12 cuts per side and try to keep them evenly spaced so the braid comes together easily.
- Step 5: Next, braid the pizza. Starting at one end, criss cross the dough strips over the filling, alternating sides until the entire top is covered.
- Step 6: Then add the finishing touch. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Lightly brush this mixture over the top of the braided dough.
- Step 7: Finally, bake and serve. Place the Pizza Braid in the oven for 15 to 17 minutes, depending on how crispy you like it. Once baked, let it cool slightly, slice it into strips with a pizza cutter, and serve with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
8. Step 8: Once baked, let it cool slightly, slice it into strips with a pizza cutter, and serve with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce. Now, enjoy!
Variations
You can add ANY toppings you want to this. Or, make it cheese only! Be sure to not do too many toppings so that everything cooks evenly.
Equipment
- Oven
- 13x9 inch baking sheet
- Nonstick spray or oil for greasing
- Kitchen shears
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Small mixing bowl
- Pastry brush or spoon for basting
- Pizza cutter
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the crust.
Reheating Leftovers
- Oven: Heat to 325 degrees, loosely cover with foil, and warm for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Air Fryer (slices): Reheat at 300 to 325 degrees for 2 to 4 minutes, checking often.
- Microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 15 to 20 second intervals until just warm.
NOTE: Reheat only until warmed through to avoid drying out or overcooking.
FAQ
Of course! You can use any toppings you like, such as sausage, veggies, or different cheeses. Just make sure to keep the filling light so the center cooks fully and the braid holds together.
Yes! You can assemble the Pizza Braid a few hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the crust.
This usually happens when it is overfilled or the dough strips are cut too thin. Using fewer toppings and slightly wider strips helps the braid stay sealed.
More Recipes to Try!
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
📖 Recipe
Pizza Braid
Equipment
- Oven
- 13x9 inch baking sheet
- Nonstick spray or oil for greasing
- Kitchen shears
- Measuring Cups + Spoons
- Small mixing bowl
- Pastry brush or spoon for basting
- Pizza Cutter
Ingredients
- 1 Pillsbury Pizza Crust in a can
- 40 Pepperonis as desired - we did 40!
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups if NOT using Chihuahua Cheese)
- 1 cup Chihuahua Cheese optional
- 1 tablespoon Grated Parmesan
- 4 tablespoon Butter melted
- ½ tablespoon Minced Garlic
- ½ tablespoon Italian Seasoning for the butter mixture
- 4 tablespoon Pizza or Pasta Sauce something similar to Marinara
Instructions
- First, preheat the oven to 400 degrees. While it heats, lightly grease a 13x9 inch baking sheet. Then roll out the Pillsbury Pizza Dough onto the pan and gently stretch it so it covers the sheet without tearing.
- Next, build the center layer. Spread 4 tablespoons of pizza or pasta sauce straight down the middle of the dough, leaving space on both sides for braiding.
- Then add the cheese and toppings. Sprinkle 1 cup of Chihuahua cheese over the sauce, or swap in mozzarella if needed. After that, line up pepperonis across the center, using as many or as few as you like. Finish with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
- After that, season it lightly. Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the cheese to add flavor without overpowering the filling.
- Now prepare the dough for braiding. Use kitchen shears to cut strips along both long sides of the dough, stopping right where the toppings begin. Aim for about 12 cuts per side and try to keep them evenly spaced so the braid comes together easily.
- Next, braid the pizza. Starting at one end, criss cross the dough strips over the filling, alternating sides until the entire top is covered.
- Then add the finishing touch. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Lightly brush this mixture over the top of the braided dough.
- Finally, bake and serve. Place the Pizza Braid in the oven for 15 to 17 minutes, depending on how crispy you like it. Once baked, let it cool slightly, slice it into strips with a pizza cutter, and serve with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce. Now, enjoy!
Comments
No Comments