Welcome to this delicious journey of making Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza, a perfect fusion of garlic bread and pizza that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food. This recipe is easy, customizable, and packed with mouth-watering flavors. Whether you’re a fan of traditional pizza or garlic bread, this combination will be an instant hit for your family and friends. With a crispy French bread base, roasted garlic butter, fresh mozzarella, and your favorite toppings, this dish is a delightful twist on the classic pizza.
Introduction
Garlic bread pizza is the ultimate comfort food that combines the savory flavors of roasted garlic with the fun of pizza toppings. It originated as a quick and easy meal in American households, and its customizable nature makes it a favorite for all ages. Whether you love cheesy pizzas or prefer something loaded with vegetables, this garlic bread pizza offers the best of both worlds. The crispy, golden French bread is the perfect canvas for creating your own pizza masterpiece, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or party dish.
For garlic lovers and pizza enthusiasts, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients for Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza
Here’s everything you need to create your Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza:
- 1 loaf French bread
- 2 bulbs garlic
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup butter, softened and unsalted
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 16 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ½ cup pepperoni slices (optional)
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Optional substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread.
- Replace the pepperoni with mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Dairy-free? Opt for plant-based butter and cheese.
How to Make Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza – Step by Step
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the tops off the garlic bulbs, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap them in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for 45–60 minutes until they are soft and caramelized. Let them cool before squeezing the cloves out of the bulbs.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Butter
Raise the oven temperature to 400°F. In a small bowl, mash the roasted garlic into the softened butter. Season with kosher salt to taste. This roasted garlic butter will add a deep, rich flavor to the French bread.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Slice the French bread loaf lengthwise into 8 pieces. Place them on a baking sheet and evenly spread the garlic butter mixture on each slice.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
Bake the bread slices in the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Remove the bread from the oven. Spread pizza sauce over each slice and top with fresh mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and bell peppers (or your favorite toppings).
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Return the bread to the oven and bake for another 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the pizzas are out of the oven, finish with grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve hot!
Helpful Tips for Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best results, use fresh garlic, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to switch up the toppings to match your preferences—try sausage, onions, mushrooms, or even pineapple!
- Control the Crispy Factor: Bake the bread just until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. If you prefer softer garlic bread, reduce the initial toasting time slightly.
Cooking Tips for the Best Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza
- Use a Pizza Stone: If you have a pizza stone, place the bread on it for extra crispy results.
- Even Butter Distribution: Spread the garlic butter evenly across all slices to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Layer the Cheese: If you love extra cheesy pizza, add another layer of mozzarella before baking.
Serving Suggestions for Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza
This delicious garlic bread pizza pairs wonderfully with:
- A side salad: A fresh Caesar or garden salad provides a light contrast to the rich, cheesy pizza.
- Cold beverages: Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water for a balanced meal.
- Dipping sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even garlic aioli for added flavor.
Nutritional Information for Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza
Calories (per serving): 430
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 890mg
Cholesterol: 55mg
This recipe offers a good balance of proteins and carbs, making it a filling yet indulgent meal. To reduce calories or fat content, you can use low-fat cheese or opt for a lighter spread of butter.
Storage and Leftovers for Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a toaster oven for quicker reheating without losing the crisp texture.
Pro tip: Avoid microwaving the pizza, as it can make the bread soggy.
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza
- Can I make garlic bread pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and toast the bread ahead of time. Store them separately, and when you’re ready to serve, add the toppings and bake. - Can I freeze garlic bread pizza?
Absolutely! Wrap the fully assembled pizza slices (without toppings) in plastic wrap and freeze. When ready to eat, add the toppings and bake from frozen at 375°F for 15–20 minutes. - What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
You can use cheddar, provolone, or even vegan cheese as a substitute for mozzarella in this recipe. - Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, simply skip the pepperoni and add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or olives.
2 Related Recipes for Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza Lovers
Explore more exciting recipes at Ultimate Cowboy Casserole and Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix—perfect for complementing your garlic bread pizza meal.
Conclusion
This Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza is not just a meal—it’s an experience! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy recipe will bring joy to your dinner table. Give it a try and feel free to share your variations or favorite toppings in the comments. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and let us know how it turned out!
Print
Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza Recipe – Easy and Delicious
Description
Welcome to this delicious journey of making Homemade Garlic Bread Pizza, a perfect fusion of garlic bread and pizza that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food. This recipe is easy, customizable, and packed with mouth-watering flavors. Whether you’re a fan of traditional pizza or garlic bread, this combination will be an instant hit for your family and friends. With a crispy French bread base, roasted garlic butter, fresh mozzarella, and your favorite toppings, this dish is a delightful twist on the classic pizza.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread
- 2 bulbs garlic
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup butter, softened and unsalted
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 16 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ½ cup pepperoni slices (optional)
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Optional substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread.
- Replace the pepperoni with mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Dairy-free? Opt for plant-based butter and cheese.
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the tops off the garlic bulbs, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap them in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for 45–60 minutes until they are soft and caramelized. Let them cool before squeezing the cloves out of the bulbs.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Butter
Raise the oven temperature to 400°F. In a small bowl, mash the roasted garlic into the softened butter. Season with kosher salt to taste. This roasted garlic butter will add a deep, rich flavor to the French bread.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Slice the French bread loaf lengthwise into 8 pieces. Place them on a baking sheet and evenly spread the garlic butter mixture on each slice.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
Bake the bread slices in the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Remove the bread from the oven. Spread pizza sauce over each slice and top with fresh mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and bell peppers (or your favorite toppings).
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Return the bread to the oven and bake for another 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the pizzas are out of the oven, finish with grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve hot!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best results, use fresh garlic, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to switch up the toppings to match your preferences—try sausage, onions, mushrooms, or even pineapple!
- Control the Crispy Factor: Bake the bread just until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. If you prefer softer garlic bread, reduce the initial toasting time slightly.
