Easy Garlic Bread Pizza

Ingredients:

1 loaf French bread

2 heads garlic

1 tbsp olive oil

½ c unsalted butter, softened

Kosher salt, to taste

1 c marinara sauce

16 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced

½ c pepperoni

½ c sweet peppers, sliced

Crushed red pepper flakes, for topping

Parmesan cheese, for topping

Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

Roasting Garlic: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the tops of the heads. Drizzle them with olive oil. Wrap them in foil and roast for 45 to 60 minutes. Until they turn golden. Let them cool slightly.

Adjust the oven to 400°F.

Preparing Garlic Butter: Squeeze out the garlic into butter. Add a pinch of salt. And blend them together.

Getting Bread Ready: Slice French bread lengthwise. Place it on a baking sheet. And spread the butter on the cut sides.

Bake at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes until it turns golden.

Adding Toppings: Spread marinara sauce over the bread. Then layer on mozzarella slices, pepperoni slices, and sweet peppers.

Put it back in the oven. Bake for another 12 to 15 minutes. Until the cheese melts. And the bread becomes crispy.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil on top. Slice it up. Savor!

Notes:

To make our favorite Easy Garlic Bread Pizza gluten-free. All you have to do is switch the bread with your preferred gluten-free bread. There are plenty of gluten-free bread options available in stores. That provides a similar taste and texture.

Allowing everyone to savor this comforting meal without any compromises. Don’t forget to check the ingredients in your marinara sauce, pepperoni, and other toppings. To ensure they are also gluten-free.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use pre-made garlic butter instead of making it from scratch?

Absolutely! If you have pre-made garlic butter on hand or prefer to use it, feel free to substitute it for the homemade version.

Just make sure it’s spreadable and has a good garlic flavor.

Can I customize the toppings to my preference?

Of course! One of the beauties of pizza is its versatility.

You can add or remove toppings according to your taste preferences.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, meats, vegetables, or even add some pineapple for a unique twist.

How do I know when the bread is ready to be topped with sauce and toppings?

The bread should be golden and slightly crispy after baking for 8 to 10 minutes at 400°F.

You can also lightly press on the surface to check for firmness.

Once it’s ready, you can proceed with adding the sauce and toppings.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

While freshly baked pizza is always ideal, you can prepare the garlic bread base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to serve, simply add the toppings and bake until heated through.

This is a great option for entertaining or meal prep.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the pepperoni and using additional vegetables or meat substitutes like vegetarian sausage or tofu.

You can also double up on the sweet peppers or add other veggies like mushrooms, onions, or olives for extra flavor and texture.

Can I use store-bought garlic butter instead of making it from scratch for the Easy Garlic Bread Pizza recipe?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought garlic butter if you prefer a quicker option.

Just ensure it’s softened and spreadable for easy application.

Is it necessary to roast the garlic before making the garlic butter?

Roasting the garlic adds a rich, mellow flavor to the butter, but it’s not strictly necessary.

If you’re short on time, you can use raw minced garlic mixed directly into softened butter.

Can I make the Easy Garlic Bread Pizza ahead of time and reheat it later?

While freshly baked pizza is ideal, you can prepare the garlic bread base in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

When ready to serve, add the toppings and bake until heated through.

This is convenient for meal prep or entertaining.

How can I customize the toppings for the Easy Garlic Bread Pizza to suit different preferences?

You can personalize the toppings based on your taste preferences.

Experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, meats, or even vegan alternatives to create your perfect flavor combination.

Can I make the Easy Garlic Bread Pizza vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the pepperoni and use plant-based cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a vegan version.

Load up on your favorite vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

What type of gluten-free bread works best for making a gluten-free version of the Easy Garlic Bread Pizza?

Look for gluten-free French bread or other gluten-free bread options available in stores.

Ensure the bread has a similar texture and flavor to traditional French bread for the best results.

How can I prevent the bread from becoming soggy when adding the marinara sauce?

To avoid soggy bread, lightly toast the bread slices before adding the marinara sauce.

This creates a barrier that helps maintain the bread’s crispiness.

Can I freeze the Easy Garlic Bread Pizza for later consumption?

Yes, you can freeze the pizza once assembled but not baked.

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze.

When ready to eat, bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve alongside the Easy Garlic Bread Pizza for a complete meal?

You can pair the pizza with a fresh green salad, garlic knots, or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.

How long does the Easy Garlic Bread Pizza stay fresh after baking?

The pizza is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.