Are you craving a satisfying and quick meal? Look no further than french bread pizza! This delightful dish transforms a simple loaf of bread into a cheesy, savory masterpiece. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack, it’s customizable to suit any palate. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that delivers both taste and convenience.
Ingredients
– 1 loaf of French bread
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup sliced pepperoni
– ¼ cup sliced black olives
– ¼ cup chopped bell peppers
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves (optional for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and the cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece of french bread pizza) contains approximately 300 calories, 12g of fat, 36g of carbohydrates, and 12g of protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise.
3. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
4. Drizzle a little olive oil on the bread for added flavor.
5. Spread pizza sauce evenly over each half.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
7. Add your choice of toppings, such as pepperoni, olives, and bell peppers.
8. Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder over the toppings.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and slice into pieces.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to customize your french bread pizza! Substitute the pizza sauce with pesto or alfredo for a different flavor. You can also use gluten-free bread for a healthier option or switch up the cheese with cheddar or a dairy-free alternative.
Serving and Pairings
French bread pizza pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. For drinks, consider serving it with a light soda or a glass of red wine for a more elegant touch.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Yes, you can freeze it for up to a month; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before storing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven properly can result in uneven cooking.
- Overloading the pizza with toppings may lead to soggy bread.
- Using low-quality cheese can affect the melting texture.
- Skipping the olive oil can make the bread dry.
- Not slicing the bread properly may cause uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different sauces for unique flavors.
- Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Try adding fresh veggies for a healthier twist.
- Consider serving with a side of marinara for dipping.
FAQs
Can I use regular bread instead of French bread?
Yes, you can use regular bread, but French bread offers a better texture and flavor for pizza.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Simply omit meat toppings and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini.
Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the pizzas ahead of time and bake them when ready to eat.
What are some good topping combinations?
Popular combos include BBQ chicken, Hawaiian (ham and pineapple), or a classic Margherita with fresh basil.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for up to a month.
Conclusion
French bread pizza is a versatile dish that combines the comforting flavors of pizza with the convenience of using bread. This quick recipe is perfect for any occasion, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Enjoy a slice of this delicious creation and share it with friends and family for a satisfying meal everyone will love!
French Bread Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni
- ¼ cup sliced black olives
- ¼ cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise.
- Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- Drizzle a little olive oil on the bread for added flavor.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over each half.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
- Add your choice of toppings, such as pepperoni and olives.
- Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder over the toppings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and slice into pieces.
Nutrition
