French Bread Pizza is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of two worlds: crispy, chewy French bread and all your favorite pizza toppings. This nostalgic dish takes me back to childhood dinners, but with a homemade twist that elevates it far beyond the frozen variety you might remember.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals, this recipe comes together in just 45 minutes and serves 4 hungry people. The beauty lies in its simplicity—a crusty baguette transformed into a delicious pizza base that’s both satisfying and customizable to please everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy—ready in under an hour with minimal prep work
- Customizable with whatever toppings your family prefers
- Crispy exterior with a soft, chewy interior—the perfect texture combination
- Budget-friendly meal that feels indulgent
- Kid-approved and perfect for picky eaters
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup salted butter, melted
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- About 24 pepperoni slices (or your favorite toppings)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Slice the French bread in half lengthwise to create two long pieces. If needed, carefully shave a bit off the bottom so the halves sit flat on the baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter and minced garlic until well combined. The garlic adds amazing flavor to the base.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of both bread halves, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Place the bread halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes until lightly toasted. This prevents soggy pizza later!
- Remove from oven and spread a generous layer of pizza sauce over each toasted bread half, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then arrange the pepperoni slices on top. Feel free to add any other favorite toppings!
- Return to the oven and bake for 10-14 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Let the pizzas cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing into portions. This helps the cheese set up and prevents burns from molten cheese!
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispy bread, hollow out some of the soft interior before adding toppings
- Try using pesto instead of marinara for a delicious twist
- Make it a meal prep option by preparing everything up to the baking step, then refrigerate and bake when ready
- Create a breakfast version with scrambled eggs, bacon bits, and cheddar cheese
- For a vegetarian option, load up with roasted vegetables and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast
- Brush the edges with garlic butter for an extra flavor boost
Serving Suggestions
Serve your French Bread Pizza with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. A bowl of warm marinara sauce on the side makes for excellent dipping, especially for those crispy edges.
For a casual gathering, cut each portion into smaller pieces and serve alongside garlic knots or breadsticks for a pizza-parlor inspired spread that’s perfect for sharing.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispness (microwave will make it soggy).
- Look for a bread that’s fresh but not too soft—day-old baguettes work perfectly.
- For best results, don’t overload with wet toppings which can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I freeze French Bread Pizza?
Yes! Prepare up to the baking step, then freeze on a baking sheet until solid. Wrap individually and store for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
How do I prevent my French Bread Pizza from getting soggy?
Pre-toasting the bread and using a moderate amount of sauce are key. You can also create a cheese barrier by sprinkling some cheese directly on the bread before adding sauce.
Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! Ciabatta, sourdough, or even large rolls work well. Just adjust the baking time according to the bread’s thickness and size.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, substitute the cheese with your favorite plant-based alternatives. Many dairy-free mozzarella-style cheeses melt well and provide similar texture and flavor.
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