Indulge in the perfect combination of garlic bread and pizza. This Garlic Bread Pizza recipe is easy to make and packed with delicious, cheesy flavors!
Introduction
Imagine combining the irresistible taste of garlic bread with the mouthwatering flavors of pizza. That’s exactly what Garlic Bread Pizza offers—a delicious, quick, and easy dish that will quickly become a family favorite. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, creating a crispy, garlicky base topped with rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just craving something comforting, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Garlic Bread Pizza is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Add pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, or even fresh basil—the possibilities are endless. The garlic butter spread infuses the bread with rich flavors, while the cheese melts into a gooey, golden layer that’s impossible to resist. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover bread or rolls.
In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious treat that’s sure to satisfy any pizza lover’s cravings. It’s a fun and easy recipe that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Let’s dive into making this tasty Garlic Bread Pizza!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread (or any crusty bread)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, onions
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the loaf of French bread lengthwise, creating two large halves.
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Place the bread halves on the prepared baking sheet, buttered side up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is lightly toasted.
- Remove the bread from the oven and spread marinara sauce evenly over each half.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
- Add your favorite pizza toppings on top of the cheese.
- Return the bread to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve!
How to Prepare
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Preheat your oven to ensure it’s ready when you are. Slice your loaf of French bread in half, giving you a sturdy base for the pizza. Next, create a flavorful garlic butter spread by mixing softened butter, minced garlic, and parsley. This spread is the key to infusing the bread with rich, garlicky goodness.
After spreading the garlic butter on the bread, bake it until it’s lightly toasted. This step ensures a crispy base that holds up well under the toppings. Once toasted, spread marinara sauce over the bread, followed by a generous layer of mozzarella cheese. Add your choice of toppings to customize your Garlic Bread Pizza.
Finally, bake the pizza until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
- Total Time: 30-32 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes 4-6 servings, depending on portion size.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, while French bread is ideal, you can use any crusty bread like ciabatta, baguette, or even rolls. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter spread and slice the bread ahead of time. Assemble the pizza when you’re ready to bake for the best results.
4. How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish healthier, opt for whole grain bread and low-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables as toppings to increase the nutritional value.
5. Can I freeze Garlic Bread Pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and the cheese is melted.
Conclusion
Garlic Bread Pizza is the perfect recipe for those who love the flavors of both garlic bread and pizza. This dish combines the crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread with the savory, cheesy toppings of pizza, creating a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s easy to make, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings and cheeses. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a party, or just a cozy night in, Garlic Bread Pizza is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Plus, with the option to make it ahead or freeze it for later, it’s a convenient choice for busy schedules.
Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures that this Garlic Bread Pizza offers. With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect blend of garlic, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings. Try it today and elevate your pizza game to a whole new level!
