The moment I pulled a fresh batch of Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread from the oven, the kitchen transformed into a cozy haven filled with the enchanting aroma of garlic and herbs. This delightful appetizer, with its golden crust and gooey, cheesy center, has a way of bringing friends and family together, sparking conversations before you even take a bite. What’s more, this quick and easy recipe invites you to customize it with your favorite cheeses or go gluten-free, ensuring everyone can indulge. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this shareable treat is the perfect addition to any gathering. Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why is Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread a Must-try?

Flavor Explosion: The delightful combination of herbs, tangy olives, and creamy cheeses creates a taste experience that’s nothing short of unforgettable.

Quick and Easy: In just over an hour, you can whip up this showstopper, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.

Customizable: Choose your favorite cheeses, or even go gluten-free, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this delicious bread.

Crowd-Pleasing: With its pull-apart fun, it’s an appetizer that brings people together, sparking joy and conversations with every bite.

Versatile Serving: Pair it with a refreshing Greek salad or even a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a satisfying meal. Each serving promises a delightful crunch with a cheesy, savory interior! Check out our Skillet Focaccia Bread or Jalapeno Cheddar Bread for more bread inspirations.

Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread Ingredients

For the Bread Base
• Jumbo Refrigerated Buttermilk Biscuits – These provide the base and pull-apart texture, but you can substitute them with frozen biscuit dough if needed.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; swap with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.

For the Flavor Mix
• Chopped Fresh Basil – Enhances flavor with a fresh, herbal note; dried basil works in a pinch.
• Olive Oil – Incorporates healthy fats; mild oils can be used as a substitute.
• Dried Oregano – Offers that signature Mediterranean flavor; Italian seasoning is a fine alternative.
• Minced Garlic – Boosts flavor depth; fresh garlic is recommended for the best result.

For the Cheesy Filling
• Monterey Jack Cheese – Provides creamy richness; mozzarella is a great substitute.
• Artichoke Hearts – Adds texture and a unique flavor; feel free to omit if unavailable.
• Chopped Kalamata Olives – Contributes tangy, briny notes; green olives can also work well.
• Chopped Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Imparts a sweet and tangy element; fresh tomatoes will do in a pinch.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese – Gives a salty, tangy finish; omit for a dairy-free option.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that your Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread bakes evenly, resulting in a golden, crispy crust. Make sure your oven is properly heated before placing your bread inside, as the right temperature is crucial for achieving that delicious finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits
While the oven is heating, cut each jumbo refrigerated buttermilk biscuit into quarters. Place these biscuit pieces into a large mixing bowl, ensuring they are well-separated. This step is vital for creating the pull-apart texture, so take your time to cut them evenly for consistent cooking throughout the Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread.

Step 3: Mix the Herb Butter
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the chopped fresh basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic, allowing the flavors to infuse for about 2 minutes. Pour this flavorful herb butter mixture over the biscuit pieces, ensuring each piece is well coated, which will enhance the overall taste of your Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread.

Step 4: Combine the Cheesy Filling
In a separate bowl, mix together the Monterey Jack cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, chopped Kalamata olives, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly. This delicious filling is what makes your Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread irresistible, so make sure every bite will burst with flavor.

Step 5: Assemble in the Bundt Pan
Grease a Bundt pan generously with olive oil to prevent sticking. Begin layering by placing a portion of the biscuit pieces into the pan, followed by a layer of the cheesy filling. Alternate between the biscuit pieces and the filling until both are fully used. This layering technique will promote that delightful pull-apart effect when the bread is served.

Step 6: Bake the Bread
Cover the Bundt pan tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. This covered baking allows the Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread to cook through while keeping it soft and moist, so refrain from removing the foil until the next step.

Step 7: Finish Baking for Crispiness
After 40 minutes, carefully remove the foil and return the pan to the oven. Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is starting to bubble. Keep an eye on the bread during this stage, as you want a beautifully crisp exterior that encases the cheesy goodness.

Step 8: Cool and Invert the Bread
Once your Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread is golden brown, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time is essential to ensure the bread holds its shape. Afterward, gently invert the Bundt pan onto a serving plate, allowing the bread to fall out smoothly, revealing its delicious layers.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
For a lovely finish, garnish your Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread with additional chopped fresh basil. Serve it warm to showcase that gooey cheese and aromatic herbs, making it an inviting appetizer for gatherings. This delightful dish not only looks beautiful but also beckons guests to enjoy a piece right away!

Make Ahead Options

These Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. To do this, prepare the biscuit and cheese layers as instructed, then layer them in the Bundt pan and cover tightly with foil. When it’s time to enjoy this delicious bread, simply preheat your oven and bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats thoroughly. This make-ahead option saves you valuable time on busy weeknights while maintaining that irresistible, gooey quality everyone loves!

Storage Tips for Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread

Room Temperature: Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain its softness and freshness.
Fridge: For optimal storage, place it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last up to 3 days. This will help preserve its delicious cheesy goodness.
Freezer: Freeze any leftovers for up to 2 months. Wrap the Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty, ensuring a delightful texture.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance this cheesy, herb-infused masterpiece.

Fresh Greek Salad: A burst of vibrant vegetables pairs perfectly, balancing the rich flavors of the bread with a refreshing crunch.
Creamy Tomato Soup: The warm, comforting soup adds a velvety texture that complements the bread’s cheesy goodness. Dip and savor every bite!
Garlic Rosemary Roasted Potatoes: These garlic-infused potatoes introduce rustic charm, with a crispy outside and fluffy inside, making a hearty side.
Crispy Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans provide a nice crunch and a pop of color, enriching the meal with freshness.
Hummus Platter: Serve with a vibrant assortment of fresh veggies and pita. This delicious dip offers a Mediterranean twist that echoes the bread’s flavors.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc elevates the meal, with its acidity cutting through the richness of the bread. Each sip amplifies taste!
Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy yogurt dip adds a refreshing tang; scoop some with your pull-apart pieces for an extra layer of flavor.

Expert Tips for Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread

Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven is completely preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even baking and a perfect crispy crust.
Coat Thoroughly: Make sure to coat each biscuit piece well with the herb butter mix to guarantee maximum flavor in every bite of the Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread.
Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the bread during the last 10-15 minutes of baking; tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Cool Before Inverting: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to avoid it falling apart when inverted onto a serving plate.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also make your Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread shine in both taste and aroma.

Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread Variations

Customize your Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread with these delightful variations to elevate your dish like never before!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuit dough to accommodate dietary needs while still enjoying the amazing flavors.
Dairy-Free: Substitute Monterey Jack and feta with cashew cheese or any dairy-free cheese for a creamy, non-dairy version that everyone can enjoy.
Cheese Swap: Replace Monterey Jack with mozzarella for a lighter flavor; the gooey texture will still be just as irresistible!
Herb Mix: Feel free to experiment with herbs; fresh thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic twist that elevates the dish to new heights.
Heat Up: Add red pepper flakes for a mild kick; this will bring an exciting contrast to the savory cheese and vegetables.
Veggie Delight: Incorporate spinach or roasted bell peppers into the cheesy filling for a colorful and nutritious addition. Think vibrant colors and fresh flavors!
Mediterranean Twist: Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or capers to give your bread a stronger Mediterranean punch that complements the olives perfectly.
Deep Flavor: Consider switching up oils; instead of olive oil, use flavored oils like garlic or chili oil to deepen the character of this wonderful bread.

For hearty inspiration, why not try making a batch of Jalapeno Cheddar Bread next? Or perhaps dive into the sweet side with a Pistachio Chocolate Babka for dessert!

Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of biscuits should I use for Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread?
Absolutely! Jumbo refrigerated buttermilk biscuits are ideal for this recipe, providing the perfect pull-apart texture. If you can’t find these, frozen biscuit dough works great as a substitute too!

How should I store leftover Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread?
You can store leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer preservation, place it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for 3 days. Always ensure it’s covered to maintain its softness.

Can I freeze Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

What can I do if the bread is browning too quickly while baking?
Very! If you notice the top of the Mediterranean Pull Apart Bread browning too quickly, simply tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will shield it from direct heat and help it bake evenly.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free biscuit dough. There’s also the flexibility to swap out cheeses or omit feta for a dairy-free option, accommodating various dietary needs. Enjoying delicious food together has never been easier!