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This crowd-pleasing French bread pizza combines the best of both worlds—crispy, crusty bread and all your favorite pizza toppings in one delicious package. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast but don't want to sacrifice flavor.
I discovered this recipe years ago when hosting an impromptu game night with friends. Since then, it's become my go-to solution for everything from quick family dinners to casual entertaining when time is tight.
Ingredients
- French bread loaf: the fresher the better for a crisp exterior and soft interior
- Pizza sauce: use a high-quality jarred sauce or homemade for best flavor
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: opt for whole milk mozzarella for better melting
- Italian sausage: adds rich, savory flavor and hearty texture
- Sliced pepperoni: thin-sliced provides the perfect ratio of spice to each bite
- Pepperoncini peppers: delivers mild heat and tangy brightness
- Black olives: contributes briny flavor and Mediterranean flair
- Italian seasoning: brings aromatic herbs that elevate the entire dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Bread:
- Cut your French bread loaf lengthwise into two equal halves. Place them cut-side up on a large baking sheet. For extra crispiness, consider toasting the bread for about 3 minutes before adding toppings.
- Layer the Toppings:
- Spread pizza sauce evenly across both bread halves, going all the way to the edges. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Crumble the raw Italian sausage evenly across the cheese. Add pepperoni slices, pepperoncini peppers, and black olives, distributing them evenly. Finish with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning over everything.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet in a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Watch carefully toward the end. The pizza is ready when the cheese is completely melted and bubbly with golden spots, the bread edges are crispy, and the sausage is fully cooked through.
The pepperoncini peppers are my secret weapon in this recipe. Their mild tanginess cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat, creating the perfect balance of flavors. My family always knows when I've forgotten them because something just seems "missing" from the pizza.
Make It Your Own
French bread pizza welcomes endless variation. Swap traditional pizza sauce for creamy Alfredo when you want something different. White pizzas with garlic butter base and fresh herbs create an elegant twist for dinner parties. Pesto makes another excellent alternative, especially topped with fresh tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Storage Tips
Leftover French bread pizza stays good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap individual pieces in aluminum foil before storing. For best results when reheating, place in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes rather than using the microwave which can make the bread soggy. This preserves the crispy texture of the bread while ensuring the toppings heat through properly.
Family-Friendly Options
Turn pizza night into a fun DIY family activity by setting up a topping bar. Prepare the bread bases with sauce and cheese, then let everyone customize their section with preferred toppings. This approach works wonderfully for families with picky eaters or diverse preferences. Label each section with toothpick flags for added fun and to keep track of whose creation is whose.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What can I use instead of French bread?
You can substitute French bread with a baguette, ciabatta, or even a flatbread for a thinner crust option.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and pepperoni, and add more vegetables like mushrooms, red onions, or green peppers.
- → What other cheeses work well?
Try a pizza blend, Italian cheese mix, or fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture and enhanced flavor.
- → How do I prevent soggy bread?
Toast the bread lightly before adding the sauce, or keep toppings with high moisture to a minimum.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pizza and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes for cooking.