Introduction

Pizza bread is a quick and delicious twist on classic pizza, using a loaf of Italian bread as the base. It’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a tasty snack that everyone will love.

This image shows four pieces of rectangular pizza on a white baking tray with slight brown marks. Each piece has three main layers: a thick, golden brown crust at the bottom with a rough texture, a bright red tomato sauce layer in the middle, and a melted, creamy white cheese layer dotted with small round slices of red pepperoni on top. The cheese stretches slightly between the slices, showing some stringy texture. Green basil leaves and small bits of green herbs are scattered on top and around the pizza, adding fresh color. The tray sits on a white marbled surface, and a small bunch of fresh basil leaves is placed near the pizza. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 loaf Italian bread (about 16-17 inches long)
Olive oil (as needed for brushing)

1 cup pizza sauce (low-sodium, plain)
1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Mini pepperonis (as needed, optional)

Fresh basil or oregano (chopped, for optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F so it is hot and ready.
Step 2: Cut the loaf in half lengthwise to expose the soft interior. Brush a thin layer of olive oil evenly over the cut surface of each half.

Step 3: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the oiled bread halves.
Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. Lightly dust with Italian seasoning. If desired, add mini pepperonis on top.
Step 5: Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the edges are lightly toasted.

Step 6: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm. Garnish with fresh basil or oregano if you like.

Tips & Variations

For a crispier base, toast the bread halves lightly before adding toppings.
Swap mini pepperonis for sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for a vegetarian option.

Use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a richer flavor.
Brush garlic butter instead of olive oil for an extra savory touch.

Storage

Store any leftover pizza bread in an airtight container or wrap in foil. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to maintain a crispy crust.

How to Serve

A rustic metal tray holds a long, thin pizza with several slices cut on the left side, showing browned, crispy edges. The pizza has three main layers: a dark red tomato sauce base, a thick middle layer of melted white cheese with a slightly bubbly texture, and small, round, reddish-brown pepperoni slices spread evenly on top. Bright green basil leaves are scattered across the pizza and the tray, adding a fresh contrast. The tray shows signs of use with burnt marks and stains, and a folded beige-striped waffle cloth rests on the bottom left corner. The background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for pizza bread?

Yes, you can use French bread, sourdough, or even ciabatta as a base, but make sure the loaf is large enough to hold toppings and slice easily.

How do I prevent soggy bread when making pizza bread?

Brushing olive oil on the cut side before adding sauce helps create a moisture barrier. Also, spreading sauce evenly and not too thickly avoids sogginess.