Grease and flour (or spray with nonstick spray) a 9” springform or cake pan. Place an oven-safe crock in the center of the pan; set pan aside. (The crock will be replaced with the marinara sauce later. It is used at this stage to “hold” the opening in the middle.)

Divide the pizza dough into 12 equal pieces (~2 oz. each).

Cut each piece of dough into 3 pieces. Using a circular motion, roll each piece of dough between countertop and palm of your hand until dough ball becomes tight. Place olive oil in a large bowl and then add balls of dough, tossing until well coated.

Place an oven-safe crock or container in the center of the pan and then place dough balls in pan around crock. Cover pan and place in a warm location for 1 hour. (Tip: For a warm location, I put the pan in my oven with just the oven light on.)

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Once dough has risen, bake at 375°F for 28-30 minutes, or until top is lightly browned.

While garlic bread is baking, stir together the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning and kosher salt.

Remove garlic bread from oven and brush with the garlic butter mixture.

Carefully remove hot crock and fill with marinara sauce for dipping.