French Bread Pizza Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy, and Ready in Minutes!

French Bread Pizza is one of those nostalgic, no-fuss meals that never goes out of style. Whether you grew up eating frozen versions or making it from scratch, there’s something so comforting about the combination of crispy bread, melty cheese, and all your favorite toppings. It’s quick, customizable, and the perfect weeknight dinner when you need something on the table fast!

Growing up, this was my mom’s go-to “we need dinner now” meal. She’d grab a loaf of French bread, whatever cheese we had, and some sauce, and in 15 minutes, we had a meal that tasted like pure childhood happiness. It’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and if you broil it for a minute at the end? Perfection. To this day, I still think it’s *better* than regular pizza.

Your Grocery List

Here’s what you need to make the ultimate homemade French Bread Pizza:

• 1 loaf of French bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup pepperoni slices (or your favorite toppings)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Choosing the Right Bread

Not all French bread is created equal when it comes to pizza. Look for a loaf that’s soft but sturdy enough to hold up to the sauce and toppings. A traditional grocery store French loaf is ideal, but avoid super crusty baguettes unless you want extra crunch (and maybe a little jaw workout!).

How to Make French Bread Pizza

This recipe is ridiculously simple, which is what makes it so great. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the bread: Slice the French bread in half lengthwise. If your loaf is very thick, you can also slice each half in half again for smaller pizzas.
3. Toast the bread: Brush the cut sides with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder. Bake for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden. This keeps the bread from getting soggy!
4. Add the sauce: Spread an even layer of pizza sauce over each toasted bread half.
5. Layer on the cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the sauce.
6. Add toppings: Arrange pepperoni slices (or your preferred toppings) on top of the cheese. Sprinkle with oregano and red pepper flakes if using.
7. Bake: Return to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Broil for crispiness (optional): For extra crispy, golden cheese, broil on high for 1-2 minutes—just watch closely so it doesn’t burn!
9. Slice and serve: Let cool for a minute, then slice and enjoy!

Make It Even Better

Want to level up your French Bread Pizza? Try these fun variations:

• Meat Lover’s: Add crumbled sausage, diced ham, and bacon.
• Veggie Supreme: Load it up with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and black olives.
• White Pizza: Skip the red sauce and use a garlic butter base with ricotta and mozzarella.
• BBQ Chicken: Swap the pizza sauce for BBQ sauce, add shredded chicken, and finish with a drizzle of ranch.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re short on time, the air fryer is a great way to get it crispy again!

Can You Freeze French Bread Pizza?

Yes! To freeze, assemble the pizzas but don’t bake them. Place on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F for 15-18 minutes.

What to Serve With French Bread Pizza

This pizza is great on its own, but if you’re making it a full meal, here are some easy sides:

• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances out the richness.
• Garlic Knots: Because more bread is always a good idea.
• Tomato Soup: Perfect for dipping!

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4

Fun Fact About French Bread Pizza

Did you know that frozen French Bread Pizza was popularized by Stouffer’s in the 1970s? While homemade versions have been around much longer, the frozen version became a staple in American households for its convenience. But let’s be honest—homemade always wins!

Allergen Warnings & Substitutions

This recipe contains dairy and gluten. To make it dairy-free, use vegan cheese. For a gluten-free version, swap the French bread for a gluten-free baguette.