French Bread Pizza
Crispy, golden French bread halves topped with a garlicky tomato sauce, savory pepperoni, and bubbly melted mozzarella. A quick weeknight favorite that gives you all the satisfaction of homemade pizza in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
- prep
Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet.
1.Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).2.Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. - prep
Prepare the French bread.
1.Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise using a serrated knife.2.Place both halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.TIPUse a serrated knife to cut through the crust cleanly without squashing the soft interior. - mix
Make the garlic oil and brush the bread.
1.In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with the minced garlic.2.Brush the garlic oil evenly over the cut surfaces of both bread halves. - bake · ~4 min
Toast the bread lightly.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 4 minutes until the bread is just starting to turn golden at the edges. This prevents the sauce from making it soggy.
TIPDon't skip this toasting step — it's the secret to crispy pizza, not soggy bread. - mix
Prepare a quick fresh tomato sauce.
1.Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 1 minute, then shock in ice water. Peel the skins off.2.Blend the peeled tomatoes into a smooth puree.3.Stir in the salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. - assemble
Assemble the pizzas.
1.Spread the tomato sauce evenly over both toasted bread halves, leaving a small border around the edges.2.Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.3.Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.4.Finish with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese. - bake · ~9 min
Bake until bubbly and golden.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and beginning to brown in spots.
TIPWatch closely in the last 2 minutes — the cheese can go from golden to burnt quickly. - rest · ~2 min
Rest and slice.
Remove from the oven and let the pizzas rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and slice each half into 2 pieces with a serrated knife.
TIPResting helps the cheese set slightly so the toppings don't slide off when you cut. - serve
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Brush garlic oil all the way to the crust edges for maximum flavor in every bite.
- 2Toast the bread until just golden — this creates a barrier that keeps the base crispy.
- 3Use a serrated knife to slice the loaf cleanly without crushing the soft interior.
- 4Blanch and peel the tomatoes for a smooth, sweet sauce without bitter skin bits.
- 5Let the pizza rest 2 minutes after baking so the cheese sets and toppings stay put.
- 6Watch the last 2 minutes of bake time — mozzarella can burn quickly once it bubbles.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Skip the pepperoni and pile on sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and black olives for a hearty, meat-free pizza that still feels satisfying.
spicySpicy
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce or layer sliced jalapeños under the cheese for a kick of heat that contrasts the creamy mozzarella.
extra cheesyExtra-cheesy
Mix shredded provolone or fontina with the mozzarella for a richer, more complex melt with a nutty, buttery finish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Calcium
Mozzarella and Parmesan provide a solid dose of bone-strengthening calcium from real dairy.
Moderate Protein
Cheese and pepperoni contribute protein to help keep you full and satisfied after a meal.
Fresh Tomato Antioxidants
The quick homemade sauce uses real tomatoes, offering lycopene and vitamin C without added sugars or preservatives.
Customizable Portion Size
Using half a French bread loaf per serving lets you control how much bread and cheese you eat more easily than a whole pizza.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but the fresh sauce gives a brighter, cleaner flavor. If using jarred sauce, spread it thinly to avoid sogginess.
