Garlic Bread Pizza is the ultimate fusion of two beloved comfort foods: garlic bread and pizza. This recipe takes crispy, buttery garlic bread and tops it with your favorite pizza ingredients, creating a quick, easy, and delicious meal or snack. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, game day, or whenever you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can use whatever toppings you love!
Ingredients
For the Garlic Bread Base:
1 loaf French bread or Italian bread (about 12-14 inches long)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For the Pizza Toppings:
1 cup (240ml) pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Your favorite toppings (e.g., pepperoni, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, cooked sausage, etc.)
For Garnish (Optional):
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Red pepper flakes
Extra Parmesan cheese
Equipment
Baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons
Spoon or spatula (for spreading sauce and toppings)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Bread Base
Slice the Bread: Cut the French bread or Italian bread in half lengthwise, creating two long halves.
Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of softened butter, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using).
Spread the Garlic Butter: Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
Step 3: Add the Pizza Toppings
Spread the Sauce: Spread 1 cup of pizza sauce evenly over the garlic butter layer.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Add Toppings: Add your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
Step 4: Bake the Garlic Bread Pizza
Bake: Place the prepared garlic bread pizza on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
Broil (Optional): For an extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish: Remove the garlic bread pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Slice and Serve: Cut the garlic bread pizza into slices and serve warm.
Notes
Bread Options: Use a baguette, ciabatta, or even garlic bread from the store for a shortcut.
Sauce Variations: Substitute pizza sauce with marinara sauce, pesto, or Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, cheddar, or goat cheese.
Topping Ideas:
For a meat lover’s version, add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage.
For a veggie-packed version, add spinach, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
For a Hawaiian twist, add diced pineapple and ham.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the garlic bread pizza up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Storage and Reheating:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side salad or soup for a complete meal.
Cut into smaller pieces for a party appetizer.
Time and Temperature Breakdown
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Oven Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
This Garlic Bread Pizza is a quick, easy, and delicious way to satisfy your pizza cravings. With its crispy garlic bread base and customizable toppings, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy
