Ingredients
Scale
For the Garlic Bread Base:
- 1 large French bread loaf or Italian bread (about 16 inches long)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pizza Toppings:
- 1½ cups marinara sauce or pizza sauce
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- ½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Slice the bread loaf in half lengthwise so you have two long pieces. Place them cut-side up on your prepared baking sheet.
- Mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Get in there with a fork until everything is well combined.
- Spread this mixture generously over both cut sides of the bread. Don’t be shy here—this is what makes it garlic bread, after all.
- Pop the buttered bread into the oven for 8-10 minutes. You want it lightly golden and crispy on the edges but not completely hard.
- Take it out and let it cool for just a minute or two while you get your toppings ready.
- Spread the marinara sauce evenly over both pieces of toasted garlic bread. Go all the way to the edges if you like a lot of sauce, or keep it a bit lighter if you prefer.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by the Parmesan. Layer on your pepperoni and any other toppings you’re using.
- Finish with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning over the top.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden in spots.
- If you want extra crispy pepperoni, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch it carefully so nothing burns.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
