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French Bread Pizza Recipe

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4 from 12 reviews

This French Bread Pizza recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy a classic pizza flavor with a crispy French bread base. Topped with garlic butter, marinara sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan, then baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh basil, this easy meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

French Bread Pizza

  • 1 loaf French bread
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 16 to 22 pepperoni slices
  • 2 tbsp. finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • Finely chopped fresh basil, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare bread: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 400°F (200°C). Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise to create two long halves.
  2. Apply garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with melted unsalted butter. Brush this garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of both bread halves to infuse flavor.
  3. Toast the bread: Place the bread halves cut-side up on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until the bread is lightly toasted, about 10 minutes. This step ensures a crispy base.
  4. Add toppings: Remove the toasted bread from the oven and spread a generous layer of marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the surface. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by arranging the pepperoni slices evenly. Sprinkle finely grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over everything.
  5. Bake until cheese melts: Return the bread with toppings to the oven and bake for about 10 more minutes, until the mozzarella cheese has melted and is bubbly.
  6. Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the French Bread Pizza from the oven and garnish with finely chopped fresh basil. Slice into servings and enjoy warm.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add extra crushed red pepper flakes or substitute pepperoni with spicy sausage slices.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the pepperoni and add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
  • Leftover French Bread Pizza can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture, though shredded mozzarella works well for convenience.
  • Be sure to toast the bread first to avoid sogginess from the sauce.