Transform boring weeknights into pizza night with this super easy garlic bread pizza recipe! All you need is a store-bought loaf of garlic bread to make the tastiest, crispiest crust ever. Top with savory tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese and fresh basil for an irresistible 15-minute dinner.
Let’s start by answering some frequently asked questions:
Can I substitute the garlic bread?
You sure can! Baguettes, ciabatta, naan and pizza dough also work well. You may need to tweak the bake time and temperature slightly. The key is choosing a bread that gets nice and crispy on the outside.
How do I get the bottom extra crispy?
Preheat your pizza pan in the 500°F oven for 10-15 minutes before assembling the pizza. You can also broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end until golden brown, watching closely to avoid burning.
Can I prepare the pizza ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pizza, wrap tightly and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours prior to baking. Let chilled pizza sit at room temp for 10 minutes before placing in the hot oven. Add 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
What proteins go well on this pizza?
Pepperoni, Italian sausage, bacon, ham, chicken and shrimp are all tasty additions. Just remember to pre-cook any raw meats first. Plant-based crumbles also work for a vegetarian option.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 (10-12 inch) loaf garlic bread
- 1 cup pizza or marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Optional toppings like cooked sausage, mushrooms, peppers, etc.
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Place pizza pan in oven while it preheats.
- Slice garlic bread loaf lengthwise into two halves. Place on work surface cut-side up.
- Warm sauce in microwave for 30 seconds. Spread evenly over bread, leaving a 1⁄2 inch border.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly over the sauce. Add any other toppings.
- Carefully transfer pizzas to preheated pizza pan. Bake 5-7 minutes until cheese melts.
- Remove from oven. Sprinkle with basil. Let cool 5 minutes before slicing.
Cooking tips:
- Use a serrated knife for easy slicing.
- Add crushed red pepper to the sauce for a kick.
- Try fresh mozzarella for extra creamy, delicious pizza.
- Blot with paper towels if overly greasy.
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 2-3 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Substitute oregano, thyme or parsley for the basil.
- Load up on veggies for a vegetarian version.
