French Bread Pizza 🥖🔥 Crispy, Cheesy, and Ready in 20 Minutes Flat
French Bread Pizza is the ultimate shortcut to crispy-edged, melty-topped pizza bliss. Built on a crusty loaf, it’s fast, infinitely customizable, and the perfect no-fuss way to crush a pizza craving — no dough required.
Ingredients (Makes 4–6 servings)
- 1 loaf French bread (split lengthwise)
- 1 cup pizza sauce (homemade or jarred)
- 1½–2 cups shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- Olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning (for brushing)
Optional Toppings
- Pepperoni, cooked sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, jalapeños, onions, fresh basil — anything goes
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice French bread in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 2 pieces for easier handling (optional). Place cut-side up on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Toast the Base
Bake plain bread for 5–6 minutes until lightly crisped. This prevents sogginess once toppings are added.
Step 3: Build the Pizzas
Spread a layer of pizza sauce over each piece. Add mozzarella, Parmesan (if using), and your favorite toppings.
Step 4: Bake
Return to oven and bake 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling. Broil for 1–2 minutes if you want golden brown tops.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Let cool slightly, then slice and serve hot — crunchy on the bottom, melty on top.
Flavor Variations
- White French Bread Pizza: Use garlic cream sauce instead of red
- BBQ Chicken: Swap pizza sauce for BBQ, top with chicken, red onion, and cheddar
- Veggie Supreme: Pile on mushrooms, bell peppers, red onions, and olives
- Buffalo: Toss chicken with buffalo sauce, top with mozzarella and drizzle ranch after baking
Pro Tips
- Use a sturdy, crusty loaf — avoid soft sandwich-style French bread
- Pre-toasting = crispy, not soggy
- Use fresh herbs or chili flakes after baking for brightness and heat
- Leftovers reheat well in a toaster oven or air fryer
Final Thoughts
French Bread Pizza is quick, crunchy, and totally nostalgic — but with better cheese and grown-up toppings. When you need pizza fast, this one delivers without compromise.
Slice the loaf. Load it up. Bake it bold. 🥖🔥🍕
🍕 Explore Our Homemade Pizza Recipes
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