French Bread Pizza Recipe: Who doesn’t love pizza? And when it comes to quick and easy homemade versions, French bread pizza is a game-changer. It has a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and endless topping options. Best of all, it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish!
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute meals, or even a fun cooking project with kids. Unlike traditional pizza, you don’t need to worry about making dough from scratch—just grab a loaf of French bread, and you’re good to go.
So, let’s dive into making this delicious homemade French bread pizza step by step!
Ingredients Needed
Before we start, let’s gather all the ingredients:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread
- 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Toppings (Choose Your Favorites!):
- Pepperoni slices
- Cooked sausage or bacon
- Bell peppers, mushrooms, onions
- Black olives, tomatoes
- Fresh basil or oregano
Other Essentials:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
With everything ready, let’s move on to the first step—choosing the perfect French bread!
Choosing the Right French Bread
The foundation of this pizza is the bread, so picking the right one is key.
Best Bread Options:
- A classic French baguette will give you a crispy texture.
- A softer loaf will provide a chewier bite.
- Try a sourdough loaf for extra flavor.
Preparing the Bread:
- Slice it in Half: Cut the French bread lengthwise to create two large halves.
- Trim the Edges: If your bread is too thick, scoop out some of the inside to create a flatter surface.
- Light Toasting: Pre-toast the bread in the oven for 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to prevent sogginess.
Now that we have our base ready, it’s time to add some sauce!
Preparing the Base
The base of any good pizza starts with the sauce. But before that, let’s ensure the bread is properly prepped:
Steps to Prep the Bread Base:
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly coat the bread with olive oil to enhance crispiness.
- Toast it First: Pre-baking for a few minutes prevents a soggy crust.
- Spread the Sauce: Use a spoon to evenly spread the sauce over the bread.
Choosing the Perfect Sauce
While classic pizza sauce is a favorite, you can switch things up:
Popular Sauce Options:
- Traditional Marinara: The classic choice, rich and tomatoey.
- Alfredo Sauce: A creamy, cheesy alternative.
- BBQ Sauce: Adds a smoky and sweet flavor.
- Pesto Sauce: Fresh basil flavor for a gourmet twist.
Apply a generous but not too thick layer of sauce—too much can make the bread soggy!
Selecting the Cheese
Cheese is what makes pizza irresistible. Here are some of the best options:
Best Cheese Choices:
- Mozzarella: The go-to for classic stretchy pizza.
- Cheddar: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Parmesan: Great for an extra kick.
- Provolone: Melts beautifully for a creamy texture.
For the best result, mix mozzarella + parmesan for a blend of stretchiness and flavor.
Adding Toppings
Now, it’s time to customize your pizza with your favorite toppings.
Classic Toppings:
- Pepperoni
- Sausage
- Mushrooms
- Bell Peppers
Creative Toppings:
- Pineapple & Ham
- Buffalo Chicken
- Spinach & Ricotta
Arrange your toppings evenly so every bite is flavorful!
Baking the Pizza
Best Baking Technique:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
French bread pizza pairs well with:
- Side Salad – A fresh contrast to the cheesy goodness.
- Garlic Knots – A perfect appetizer.
- Soup – Tomato soup pairs beautifully.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage Tips:
- Wrap in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Best Reheating Methods:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Crisp it up at 375°F for 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Works but may make the crust soggy.
FAQs about French Bread Pizza Recipe
1. What kind of French bread works best for French bread pizza?
Opt for a loaf with a crispy crust and a soft interior, such as a traditional baguette. This texture contrast ensures a pizza that’s sturdy enough to handle toppings but delightful to bite into.
2. Can I use any type of cheese for French bread pizza?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is the go-to for that classic pizza stretch, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar for sharpness or a bit of gorgonzola for a tangy kick. Mixing cheeses can also elevate the flavor profile.
3. What are the best toppings for French bread pizza?
The sky’s the limit! Start with a solid base of sauce and cheese, then add anything from pepperoni and sausage to a variety of veggies like bell peppers and onions. For a gourmet twist, try artichokes and olives.
4. How long should I bake French bread pizza?
Bake your French bread pizza in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 10-15 minutes. The key is to look for melted cheese and a golden-brown crust.
5. Can French bread pizza be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare your pizza ahead of time. Simply assemble your pizzas and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For best results, add an extra minute or two to the baking time if coming straight from the fridge.
6. Are there any tips for making a vegan French bread pizza?
Definitely! Swap in vegan cheese and top with loads of your favorite plant-based toppings. Don’t forget to check the bread’s ingredients to ensure it’s vegan-friendly.
7. How can I make my French bread pizza extra crispy?
For an extra crispy texture, lightly toast the bread in the oven before adding your toppings. This step helps the bread stay firm and crunchy.
Conclusion
French bread pizza is a quick, delicious, and customizable meal that anyone can make. Whether you prefer classic toppings or something more adventurous, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy homemade pizza without the hassle of making dough. Try it out, and enjoy every bite!
