French Bread Pizzas with Mozzarella and Pepperoni

From the kitchen of Carly

Crispy-edged French bread transforms into a proper pizza when topped with garlicky tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and pepperoni. Bake until the cheese turns golden and bubbly, then finish with fresh basil. Fast, satisfying, and way better than delivery.

Prep
n/a
Cook
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Total
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Servings
4
Difficulty
medium

Ingredients

4 servings

  • 11 (12–14") soft loaf French or Italian bread, split in half lengthwise
  • 11 garlic clove, smashed
  • 11/2 cup store-bought tomato sauce
  • 11 cup coarsely grated mozzarella (about 4 ounces)
  • 13 ounces sliced pepperoni
  • 11/4 teaspoon crushed red-pepper flakes (optional)
  • 12 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Position rack in top third of oven and preheat to 425°F. Place bread, cut side up, on a rimmed baking sheet and bake 5 minutes. Remove from oven and rub cut sides with garlic.

  2. Spread tomato sauce on cut sides of bread. Top with mozzarella, pepperoni, and red-pepper flakes, if using.

  3. Bake until cheese is melted and golden brown, about 10 minutes. Top with basil.