Close up view of French bread pizza.

Combining the heartiness of a traditional pizza with the crispy crust of French bread, this French bread pizza recipe is a game-changer for those who want to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The versatility of this dish allows you to personalize it with your favorite toppings and adjust the baking time to achieve your desired level of crispiness. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover bread or introduce new flavors to the pizza-loving members of your family.

Topping Ideas

The beauty of French bread pizza lies in its customizability. Some popular topping suggestions include:

  • Classic: pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms
  • Veggie delight: bell peppers, onions, olives, and spinach
  • Hawaiian: ham and pineapple
  • Meat lovers: bacon, ground beef, and ham
  • Gourmet: prosciutto, arugula, and goat cheese. Feel free to mix and match or get creative with your own combinations!
Can I use a different type of bread?

While French bread is recommended for its crispy crust and soft interior, you can also use other types of bread such as Italian bread or a baguette. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if the bread is thicker or thinner than French bread.

How can I prevent a soggy pizza?

Pre-baking the bread with the butter mixture helps create a barrier that prevents the sauce from soaking into the bread. Make sure to spread the sauce evenly, but don’t overdo it, as too much sauce can still make the bread soggy.

Can I freeze this before baking?

Yes, you can freeze assembled French bread pizza before baking. Wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, preheat the oven and bake the pizza directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it cooks through.

Can I use store bought pizza sauce instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza sauce can save you time and still provide a delicious flavor for your French bread pizza. Feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade sauce if you prefer.

Overhead view of French bread pizza cut into slices.

Make Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the French bread pizza ahead of time by assembling the buttered bread, sauce, cheese, and toppings. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and follow the baking instructions in the recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftover French bread pizza should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it on a baking sheet and warm it in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit until your desired temperature.

If you like this recipe, you may be interested in these other delicious pizza recipes:

Watch the Video

Watch the video below where Caytlin will walk you through every step of this recipe. Sometimes it helps to have a visual, and we’ve always got you covered with our cooking show. You can find the complete collection of recipes on YouTube, Facebook Watch, or our Facebook Page, or right here on our website with their corresponding recipes.