French Bread Pizza
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4
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Course
Main Course
French Bread Pizza
Description
The recipe calls for a loaf of French bread approximately 17 inches long and 4 inches wide, which is sliced lengthwise and then into four portions to form pizza bases. The slices are brushed with olive oil on both sides, then baked briefly to develop slight crispness while keeping the bread tender inside.
After pre-baking, pizza sauce is evenly spread and topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then finished with preferred toppings such as meats, vegetables, or herbs. Baking again melts the cheese and combines flavors. Optional broiling at the end can add browning on the cheese surface for added texture.
Variations in sauce include marinara, pesto, Alfredo, BBQ, or ranch, while toppings can range from classic pepperoni to fresh vegetables. Choosing a soft French bread that is fresh or day-old but not dried out is critical to maintain a tender base. Adjusting quantities of sauce and cheese based on bread size helps keep balance.
This preparation offers a quick way to enjoy pizza with a crust that differs from traditional pizza dough, suited for casual meals or easy sharing.
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) loaf French bread (about 17-inches long, 4-inches wide*)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup (scant) pizza sauce preferably homemade, or store-bought
- 1 3/4 cups (7 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup finely shredded Parmesan Cheese
- Desired toppings (see notes for ideas)
Instructions
- Move oven rack up one level and preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a rimmed 18 by 13-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier clean up if desired.
- Cut french bread in half evenly through the length, to create two long portions. Cut each portion in half (creating four pieces total) and place them on baking sheet.
- Brush both sides with olive oil. Turn upright and bake in preheated oven 4 minutes.
- Spread pizza sauce over each piece, sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, then finish with desired toppings.
- Bake in preheated oven until cheese is fully melted, about 10- 13 minutes. If you'd like it more browned then broil during the last 1 minute or so (keep a close eye on it!).
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use a soft French bread loaf, ideally from Walmart's bakery, for the best texture.
- Avoid bread with a dry crust; it should be sold in plastic packaging, not paper.
- Day-old bread works well to hold toppings without becoming soggy.
- Adjust sauce and cheese quantities if bread dimensions differ from those specified.
- Homemade pizza sauce works best; store-bought is acceptable with added garlic and Italian seasoning for flavor.
- Consider various sauce options such as marinara, pesto, Alfredo (thicken with flour), BBQ, ranch, or buffalo sauce.
- Use a range of cheeses and toppings based on preference.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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