French Bread Pizzas

Prep Steps

• 2 loaves French bread in half lengthwise and crosswise, for 8 pieces {do:cut}
• 1/2 cup butter {do:melt}
• 1 clove garlic {do:mince}
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese {do:shred}
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese {do:grate}

Toast the Bread

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Have ready...

• 2 loaves French bread, cut in half lengthwise and crosswise

Brush the bottom crusts lightly with...

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Arrange crust side down on a rimmed baking sheet. Stir together and brush over the cut sides...

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic

Bake until the edges start to crisp and turn golden, about 5 minutes.

Pizza Sauce

In a bowl, stir together...

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp sugar (optional)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt{tip:We test with Morton kosher salt. Using table salt? Use about 3/4 as much. Diamond Crystal? Use about 1 1/2 times as much.}

Note: If you can find Escalon 6 in 1 ground tomatoes, pizza pros swear by them.

Top & Bake

Spread a generous layer of sauce over the toasted bread, then top with...

• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 4 oz sliced pepperoni

Add any extras you like...

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 4 oz Italian sausage, cooked (optional)
• 4 oz diced ham (optional)
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
• 1/2 onion, diced (optional)
• 1/2 bell pepper, diced (optional)

Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15 minutes. Serve warm.