Garlic Bread Pizza

There’s something magical about combining two classic favorites: garlic bread and pizza. This Garlic Bread Pizza recipe brings together the rich, buttery taste of roasted garlic and the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza, all on a toasted French bread base. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to transform your pizza nights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These garlic bread pizzas are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly easy to customize. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a party, they cater to everyone’s tastes. The roasted garlic butter gives the bread an extra flavor boost, making it far superior to any frozen pizza you might find. Plus, it’s a dish that kids adore, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread
• 2 heads of garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• Kosher salt
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 16 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• ½ cup pepperoni
• ½ cup sliced sweet peppers
• Crushed red pepper flakes, for topping
• Parmesan cheese, for topping
• Fresh basil, for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. To roast the garlic, slice off the top portion of the garlic head to reveal the cloves. Lightly rub back and forth to remove the paper and peel any excess paper off. Pour a bit of olive oil over each bulb. Wrap the bulbs tightly in foil and place in the oven. Roast for 45 to 60 minutes, until the cloves are caramely and golden. Let cool slightly.
2. Increase the heat of the oven to 400 degrees F.
3. Squeeze the cloves out of the garlic head into the butter. Sprinkle on a pinch of salt and mash well, until the cloves are combined into the butter.
4. Slice the French bread in half, then slice the pieces in half lengthwise. Place them on a baking sheet. Spread the butter all over the sliced sides of the bread.
5. Bake the bread for 8 to 10 minutes, until slightly golden and the garlic butter is melted in.
6. Remove the bread. Top with the marinara and fresh mozzarella. Add on the pepperoni and peppers or any other toppings you’d like.
7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 12 to 15 minutes, until the bread is crunchy and the cheese is melty.
8. Top with parmesan and fresh basil. Slice and serve!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the garlic is well roasted to achieve that sweet, mellow flavor.
• Use fresh mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
• Don’t skimp on the toppings; they add extra flavor and texture.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to experiment with different toppings such as mushrooms, olives, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. You can also try using whole wheat French bread for a healthier option.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While the exact nutrition will vary based on toppings, each serving is rich in protein and calcium thanks to the mozzarella and offers a hearty dose of garlic’s health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free bread and check that your toppings are gluten-free.
• How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Can I prepare this in advance? You can roast the garlic and prepare the garlic butter ahead of time. Assemble and bake the pizzas just before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Bread Pizza is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary adventure that you can easily recreate at home. It’s the perfect way to end a busy week or to treat your family and friends to something special. Try it out and let me know how it goes—I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your delicious creations!