Easy Garlic Bread Pizza

Garlic bread pizza combines roasted garlic butter French bread, marinara, mozzarella, pepperoni, sweet peppers, Parmesan, and fresh basil for a flavorful twist.

this Recipe

You know those moments when inspiration hits you out of nowhere? That’s exactly how this garlic bread pizza came to be. It was a random Thursday night, and I was in that classic “What’s for dinner?” panic. The kind where you open the fridge 12 times, hoping something magical will appear. Spoiler: It didn’t.

But then, I spotted a loaf of French bread sitting on the counter, looking slightly past its prime. My first thought? Garlic bread. But let’s be honest, garlic bread alone wasn’t going to cut it for dinner. That’s when it hit me—what if I turned it into pizza?

I had some garlic (I always do), mozzarella, marinara, and a few random toppings lying around. Within an hour, the kitchen smelled amazing, the bread was golden and bubbly, and my family was huddled around the table, devouring every last slice. My kids were thrilled, my husband called it “genius,” and I got to feel like I’d saved the day without even trying.

Now, garlic bread pizza is our go-to for those nights when you want something easy but still feels a little special. It’s quick, customizable, and honestly, just plain fun to make.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Garlic Bread Pizza?

• Ridiculously Easy: No kneading dough, no fancy techniques—just slice, top, and bake.
• Completely Customizable: It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure meal. Add whatever toppings you love.
• That Roasted Garlic Butter: Sweet, nutty, and rich, it soaks into the bread and makes every bite irresistible.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great for family dinners, parties, or even a solo pizza night (no judgment!).

Ingredient Notes:

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes this garlic bread pizza so special:

• French Bread: A crusty loaf is perfect for holding up all the toppings. Ciabatta or sourdough works too if you want to switch things up.
• Roasted Garlic: Roasting the garlic mellows its flavor, turning it sweet and buttery. It’s the secret to this recipe’s incredible base.
• Butter: Softened and mashed with roasted garlic, it creates the ultimate spread for your bread.
• Marinara Sauce: Adds a classic pizza flavor. Want to mix it up? Try pesto or alfredo instead.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Creamy and gooey, it’s worth the splurge. Pre-shredded mozzarella works too if you’re short on time.
• Toppings: Pepperoni and sweet peppers are my go-to, but anything from mushrooms to jalapeños works.
• Parmesan and Basil: The finishing touches that make this dish feel restaurant-quality.

How To Make Easy Garlic Bread Pizza?

Making garlic bread pizza is so easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been doing it forever.

1. Roast the Garlic
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Slice the tops off two heads of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap them tightly in foil. Roast for 45–60 minutes until golden and soft. Let the garlic cool slightly, then squeeze the cloves into a bowl.
2. Make the Garlic Butter
   Mash the roasted garlic with softened butter and a pinch of kosher salt. It’ll smell so good, you’ll want to spread it on everything—but save it for the bread.
3. Toast the Bread
   Increase the oven temperature to 400°F. Slice your French bread into halves and then lengthwise to create four pieces. Spread the garlic butter generously over the cut sides and bake for 8–10 minutes, just until golden and crispy.
4. Assemble the Pizzas
   Remove the bread from the oven and top with marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella slices, and your favorite toppings. Pepperoni and sweet peppers are classics, but feel free to get creative.
5. Bake Again
   Return the bread to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread should be perfectly crisp.
6. Finish and Serve
   Sprinkle with Parmesan, fresh basil, and maybe a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Slice and serve immediately—these are best enjoyed hot and fresh!

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven to maintain that crispy texture.
• Freezer: Assemble the pizzas (minus the fresh basil), wrap them tightly in foil, and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F for about 20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions:

This recipe is so versatile—you can make it your own with just a few swaps:

• Sauce Swap: Pesto, barbecue sauce, or buffalo sauce are all amazing alternatives to marinara.
• Different Cheeses: Provolone, fontina, or even crumbled goat cheese can add a unique twist.
• Veggie Options: Mushrooms, spinach, caramelized onions, or artichokes are great additions.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or even shrimp for something heartier.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free bread or baguette as the base.

What to Serve with Easy Garlic Bread Pizza?

While this dish can absolutely stand alone, pairing it with a simple side makes it even better:

• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the pizza.
• Soup: Tomato basil soup is a classic pairing, but minestrone works beautifully too.
• Appetizers: Serve alongside mozzarella sticks or garlic knots for a full-on pizza party.
• Drinks: A glass of crisp white wine or a cold beer complements the garlicky, cheesy flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use store-bought garlic butter?

You can, but roasting your own garlic takes the flavor to the next level. It’s worth the extra step!

What kind of bread works best?

French bread is my top pick, but ciabatta or sourdough are great alternatives. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold all the toppings.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the pizzas without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, pop them in the oven and bake as directed.

Garlic Bread Pizza isn’t just a recipe—it’s a lifesaver for busy nights, a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, and honestly, one of the easiest ways to satisfy your pizza cravings. Give it a try, and let me know how you made it your own! Did you stick with the classics, or go wild with toppings? I can’t wait to hear all about it!

Easy Garlic Bread Pizza

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Imagine breaking apart a slice of Easy Garlic Bread Pizza. With the cheese stretching between each piece. The scent of roasted garlic. Wafting through the room. And the satisfying crunch of the crust resonating in a kitchen. This recipe proceeds further incorporating the pleasing essence of bread. With the universal appeal of pizza. Finding simple yet profound delight in every mouthful. It showcases how a few basic ingredients. Infused with care and imagination can metamorphose into something that not only nourishes the body. But also uplifts the spirit. Ideal for sharing around a table filled with loved ones. It heightens a feast into an extravaganza of tastes. And togetherness.

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4 Servings

Ingredients

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• 1 loaf French bread
• 2 heads garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ c unsalted butter softened
• Kosher salt to taste
• 1 c marinara sauce
• 16 oz fresh mozzarella sliced
• ½ c pepperoni
• ½ c sweet peppers sliced
• Crushed red pepper flakes for topping
• Parmesan cheese for topping
• Fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

 

1. Roasting Garlic: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the tops of the heads. Drizzle them with olive oil. Wrap them in foil and roast for 45 to 60 minutes. Until they turn golden. Let them cool slightly.
2. Adjust the oven to 400°F.
3. Preparing Garlic Butter: Squeeze out the garlic into butter. Add a pinch of salt. And blend them together.
4. Getting Bread Ready: Slice French bread lengthwise. Place it on a baking sheet. And spread the butter on the cut sides.
5. Bake at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes until it turns golden.
6. Adding Toppings: Spread marinara sauce over the bread. Then layer on mozzarella slices, pepperoni slices, and sweet peppers.
7. Put it back in the oven. Bake for another 12 to 15 minutes. Until the cheese melts. And the bread becomes crispy.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil on top. Slice it up. Savor!

Notes

To make our favorite Easy Garlic Bread Pizza gluten-free. All you have to do is switch the bread with your preferred gluten-free bread. There are plenty of gluten-free bread options available in stores. That provides a similar taste and texture. Allowing everyone to savor this comforting meal without any compromises. Don't forget to check the ingredients in your marinara sauce, pepperoni, and other toppings. To ensure they are also gluten-free. By doing this. You're not just preparing a dish. You're creating an inclusive. And truly delightful dining experience. That everyone can come together and appreciate.

Audrey

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Bitty

I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!

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