French Bread Pizzas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly versatile and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. The crisp crust of the French bread contrasts perfectly with the melty cheese and flavorful toppings, and you can personalize each pizza to suit different tastes. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy all the flavors of pizza without the hassle of making dough from scratch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pizzas:

• 6 whole deli rolls or French bread, sliced
• Jarred marinara or pizza sauce
• Jarred or refrigerated pesto
• 2 lb. shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1/2 lb. sausage (breakfast or Italian)

For the Toppings (choose as desired):

• Pepperoni slices
• Pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
• Roma tomatoes, sliced
• Sliced black olives
• Goat cheese
• Sliced bell peppers
• Pepperoncini
• Jalapeño slices
• Sliced red onion

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sausage, cooking until the onion is soft and sausage is browned. Set aside.
3. Slice the French bread or deli rolls lengthwise, creating a flat surface for toppings. Place on a baking sheet.
4. Spread marinara sauce or pesto evenly on each bread slice.
5. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella over the sauce.
6. Add cooked sausage and onion mixture, then layer on your choice of toppings such as pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, tomatoes, and others.
7. Finish with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread edges are crispy.
9. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings, depending on appetite and toppings.
Preparation time: 10-15 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Use different sauces such as BBQ or Alfredo for a unique flavor.
• Add fresh basil or arugula after baking for a peppery freshness.
• Substitute mozzarella with a blend of cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or fontina.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping the sausage and adding extra veggies.
• Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover French bread pizzas wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to maintain crispness. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the crust.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, baguette, ciabatta, or sandwich rolls work well as alternatives.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

To avoid soggy bread, don’t overload with sauce and toppings. Toasting the bread lightly before assembling can help, too.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can assemble the pizzas and refrigerate for a few hours before baking, but fresh baking yields the best results.

Is it possible to freeze French bread pizzas?

Yes, freeze before baking. Wrap tightly and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, pre-cooked sausage works fine and can reduce prep time.

What can I use if I don’t have pesto?

Substitute with extra marinara sauce or a drizzle of olive oil and garlic.

Are these suitable for kids?

Absolutely, just adjust toppings according to their preferences.

How can I make it healthier?

Use whole grain bread, lean meats, and load up on vegetable toppings.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and check that sauces are dairy-free.

Can I add fresh herbs?

Yes, fresh basil, oregano, or parsley can be added after baking for extra flavor.

Conclusion

French Bread Pizzas are a delicious and flexible meal option that brings the fun of pizza night to your kitchen with minimal effort. Whether you prefer classic pepperoni or a loaded veggie mix, this recipe allows you to customize every bite while enjoying a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying dish. Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or quick lunches, these pizzas are sure to become a favorite.

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