When the workweek drags on, nothing beats the joy of a quick and satisfying meal, and that’s where this Easy French Bread Pizza comes in! With its crusty, golden base and gooey, melty cheese, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your family. I stumbled across this delightful recipe while rummaging through my pantry one evening, and it quickly became our go-to for busy nights or spontaneous get-togethers.
In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this customizable dish that’s as flexible as your cravings. Whether you prefer classic pepperoni or a colorful array of fresh veggies, each pizza can be tailored to suit your taste. So, let’s gather our ingredients and elevate pizza night from ordinary to extraordinary!
Why is French Bread Pizza a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together—just 35 minutes from start to finish!
Customizable Delight: Personalize each pizza with your favorite toppings, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
Family-Friendly: A surefire hit with kids and adults alike, turning mealtime into a fun experience.
Satisfying Texture: Enjoy the perfect contrast of a crispy crust with gooey cheese and hearty toppings.
Weeknight Winner: This recipe is ideal for busy evenings or unexpected company, ensuring no one has to settle for takeout.
Elevate your next pizza night with this comforting recipe that’s sure to please! If you’re looking for even more quick meal ideas, check out our collection of quick meals!
French Bread Pizza Ingredients
For the Base
• French bread – A rustic loaf like a baguette works beautifully, adding a nice crunch.
For the Sauce
• Plum tomatoes (28-ounce can) – Hand crush for a fresh, homemade sauce; draining is key to avoid sogginess.
• Sicilian oregano (1 teaspoon) – Infuses that quintessential Italian flavor; swap it for Italian seasoning if preferred.
• Fine sea salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Elevates the overall taste; feel free to adjust it to your liking.
For the Toppings
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (10-12 ounces) – The star of your French bread pizza providing that melty goodness; cover generously.
• Pecorino Romano (3 tablespoons, grated) – Adds a delightful sharpness; try Parmesan cheese if desired.
For the Garlic Oil
• Olive oil (5 tablespoons) – Use extra virgin for a richer flavor that enhances the crust.
• Garlic (2 cloves, grated) – Freshly grated garlic transforms oil into liquid gold, delivering aromatic bliss.
Feel free to add your favorite toppings to make this pizza unique to your family’s tastes!
How to Make French Bread Pizza
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Prepare the Sauce: Hand crush the plum tomatoes in a bowl, ensuring you drain any excess liquid. Mix in the fine sea salt and Sicilian oregano, then set this zesty sauce aside to blend the flavors.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F, placing the rack in the middle position for even cooking.
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Make Garlic Oil: Combine the grated garlic with the olive oil in a small bowl. This fragrant mixture will enhance the flavor of the bread.
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Prepare Bread: Take your French bread and slice it in half lengthwise. If it’s thick, gently flatten it a bit. Brush the insides generously with the garlic oil, then place on a baking sheet.
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Pre-Bake Bread: Pop the bread into the oven and bake for about 3-5 minutes, until it starts to turn a lovely golden brown.
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Assemble Pizza: Spread an even layer of your homemade tomato sauce over the bread halves. Don’t be shy—load on that shredded mozzarella cheese until it’s well-covered.
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Bake Again: Return the assembled pizzas to the oven and bake for 8 minutes until the cheese is melty and bubbling.
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Finish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano on top and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is perfectly bubbly. Allow the pizzas to cool for a minute, slice into 8 pieces, and enjoy the warm delight!
Optional: Try adding fresh basil for a burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy French Bread Pizzas are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can make the tomato sauce up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply hand crush the plum tomatoes and mix them with salt and oregano, then store in an airtight container. You can also slice the French bread (or another rustic loaf) and prepare the garlic oil (up to 24 hours ahead); just brush the bread with the oil and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, quickly bake the prepped components for a couple of minutes before adding the sauce and cheese, then finish baking until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious homemade French bread pizza with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze French Bread Pizza
Fridge: Store any leftover French bread pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: If you have extra slices, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months for a convenient future snack.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is melted, typically about 10-15 minutes. For best results, avoid microwaving to maintain that satisfying crust!
Cooling: Allow the pizzas to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from making the crust soggy.
What to Serve with French Bread Pizza?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing your homemade delight with perfect companions that enhance every bite.
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Mixed Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad brings a nice contrast to the cheesy richness of the pizza. Drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette, it complements every slice beautifully.
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Garlic Breadsticks: For those who can’t resist more carbs, these buttery, garlicky sticks add a delicious crunch. They’re perfect for sopping up any extra sauce lying around.
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Vegetable Platter: A colorful array of raw vegetables, such as peppers, carrots, and cucumbers, adds a fresh, crunchy element. For added flavor, serve with a zesty dip on the side.
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Homemade Ranch Dressing: Whipping up your own ranch to use as a dip for both the pizza and veggies takes this casual meal to the next level. The creaminess balances out the savory flavors perfectly.
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Sparkling Lemonade: For something refreshing, this bubbly drink adds a hint of sweetness, cutting through the savory richness of the pizza with a zingy flavor.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal with a classic dessert; these warm, gooey cookies bring nostalgia and sweetness after the savory main course. Perfectly tender, they are simply irresistible!
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Red Wine: Pairing with a light red wine enhances the richness and adds depth. A smooth Pinot Noir complements the toppings and flavors beautifully.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits will cleanse your palate and add a sweet touch after the savory dish. The natural sugars refresh and delight after each slice!
French Bread Pizza Variations
Embrace your creativity and make this pizza your own with exciting twists that’ll delight your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free Bread: Swap traditional French bread for gluten-free bread to cater to dietary needs while still enjoying a delicious base.
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Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or rosemary to the garlic oil for an aromatic kick that elevates the flavor profile.
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Cheese Medley: Mix mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a rich, creamy topping that adds depth to each bite. The combination will leave you craving more!
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Veggie Lover’s Delight: Top with roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. These colorful additions make for a vibrant and nutritious pizza.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or jalapeños on top for a zesty touch that brings out the heat and excitement in every slice.
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Meaty Indulgence: Layer pepperoni, Italian sausage, or prosciutto to create a satisfying meaty version that’s perfect for carnivores.
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Sweet Touch: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the finished pizza for a surprising sweet-and-tangy combination that balances well with the savory toppings.
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Breakfast Version: Add scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a fun breakfast twist that transforms pizza into a morning favorite!
Tips for the Best French Bread Pizza
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Soggy Prevention: Drain tomatoes well: To avoid a soggy crust, ensure the canned plum tomatoes are fully drained after crushing.
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Even Garlic Oil Application: Use a pastry brush: A pastry brush helps spread the garlic oil evenly, enhancing flavor and preventing burning in spots.
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Cheese Coverage: Don’t skimp on mozzarella: Generously cover the pizza with mozzarella for that perfectly melty finish; it’s the star of your French bread pizza!
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Add Toppings Wisely: Timing is key: Place additional toppings like pepperoni or veggies on top of the cheese before the final bake for the best melt and flavor integration.
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Experiment with Bread: Feel free to substitute: Different types of bread, like whole wheat or a gluten-free option, can make your French bread pizza unique and cater to dietary needs.
French Bread Pizza Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my tomatoes are ripe enough for the sauce?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for plum tomatoes that are firm and free from blemishes. Look for vibrant color without any dark spots. If you’re using canned tomatoes, select a high-quality brand labeled ‘whole’ or ‘plum’ tomatoes for a delicious sauce.
What’s the best way to store leftover French bread pizza?
To store your delicious French bread pizza, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re not going to consume it within that time frame, I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freezing for up to 2 months for ultimate freshness.
Can I freeze French bread pizza?
Yes, you absolutely can! To freeze French bread pizza, follow these steps: After it’s cooled completely, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double-wrapping method prevents freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly and melty.
What should I do if my French bread pizza comes out soggy?
The most common reason for soggy pizza is the moisture from the tomatoes. To fix it, ensure you drain your crushed plum tomatoes very well before applying the sauce. If you find yourself with a soggy bottom despite this, baking the pizza a little longer on a lower oven rack can help crisp up the crust. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Are there any dietary considerations for French bread pizza?
Certainly! If you have guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For gluten-free individuals, substitute the French bread with a gluten-free loaf. Additionally, if you are catering for someone with cheese allergies, explore non-dairy cheese alternatives that melt well. Always double-check the labels of your ingredient picks to keep everyone safe!
Can I use a different type of bread for the French bread pizza?
Very much! While French bread is traditional, feel free to experiment with different types like whole wheat bread, ciabatta, or even gluten-free varieties. Each option brings a unique flavor and texture, so don’t hesitate to get creative based on personal taste or dietary needs.
Homemade French Bread Pizza: Your Perfect Customizable Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: Hand crush the plum tomatoes in a bowl, ensuring you drain any excess liquid. Mix in the fine sea salt and Sicilian oregano, then set this zesty sauce aside to blend the flavors.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F, placing the rack in the middle position for even cooking.
- Make Garlic Oil: Combine the grated garlic with the olive oil in a small bowl. This fragrant mixture will enhance the flavor of the bread.
- Prepare Bread: Take your French bread and slice it in half lengthwise. If it's thick, gently flatten it a bit. Brush the insides generously with the garlic oil, then place on a baking sheet.
- Pre-Bake Bread: Pop the bread into the oven and bake for about 3-5 minutes, until it starts to turn a lovely golden brown.
- Assemble Pizza: Spread an even layer of your homemade tomato sauce over the bread halves. Don't be shy—load on that shredded mozzarella cheese until it's well-covered.
- Bake Again: Return the assembled pizzas to the oven and bake for 8 minutes until the cheese is melty and bubbling.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano on top and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is perfectly bubbly. Allow the pizzas to cool for a minute, slice into 8 pieces, and enjoy the warm delight!