Imagine bypassing long prep times, skipping the pizza delivery, and still getting that fresh, indulgent taste of pizza—only quicker. That’s exactly what this French bread pizza delivers: a golden, crispy base topped with rich sauce, melty cheese, and your favorite toppings—all ready before you can say “extra cheese.”
Why It Works in 10 Minutes
• No dough needed: Using a split French baguette means no kneading, proofing, or rolling—just slice and go.
• High heat, fast results: A hot oven (or air fryer, if you prefer) crisps the bread and melts the cheese in record time.
• Streamlined prep: Minimal toppings and just the essentials—cheese, sauce, maybe a sprinkle of herbs—speed things along without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3):
• 1 small French baguette (about 12 inches), sliced in half lengthwise
• ½ cup pizza sauce
• 1–1½ cups shredded mozzarella (or your blend of choice)
• Your favorite toppings: e.g., pepperoni, sliced bell peppers, olives, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes
• Olive oil (optional, for brushing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 °C).
2. Lightly brush the bread with olive oil (for extra crunch).
3. Spread sauce evenly across both halves.
4. Layer generously with cheese and your chosen toppings.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden—and your hood won’t even know you didn’t call for delivery.
6. Pro Tip: Let it rest for a minute before slicing—it keeps the cheese from running everywhere.
What Makes It Better Than Takeout:
| Feature | French Bread Pizza | Takeout Pizza |
| Ready in | ~10 minutes | 30+ minutes (prep + travel) |
| Customizable | Totally—you decide the toppings | Usually limited by menu |
| Clean-up | Easy: baking sheet = dish | Boxes + grease + toppings everywhere |
| Texture | Crispy, fresh from your oven | Often soggy by the time it arrives |
Bonus Tips
• Air fryer option: Preheat to 400 °F, cook for 6–8 minutes—ideal for ultra-crisp crusts.
• Flavor kicks: Add garlic butter or a sprinkle of Parmesan under the mozzarella for an extra flavor boost.
• Cheesy variety: Mix mozzarella with cheddar, fontina, or provolone for a richer taste.
• Make-ahead hack: Pre-assemble, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when you’re ready to eat—and voila, fresh pizza in 10.
Final Bite
No dough, no delivery, no drama. Just cheesy, crispy pizza goodness in record time—all from that trusty French baguette sitting in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking solo or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers on flavor, crunch, and convenience—making it your new weeknight go-to.
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