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Fresh Bread Pizza Recipe

Fresh Bread Pizza Recipe

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4.6 from 40 reviews

This Fresh Bread Pizza recipe transforms a loaf of bakery-style bread into the easiest, crispiest pizza you’ll ever make! Toasty bread becomes the base for a layer of rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, spicy pepperoni, and a burst of fresh herbs. Ready in under 25 minutes, this quick comfort food is perfect for satisfying weeknight cravings, feeding a hungry crowd, or making pizza night irresistibly simple.

Ingredients

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Bread Base

  • 1 loaf fresh Italian or French bread (cut in half lengthwise)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Sauce & Toppings

  • 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

  • Fresh basil or parsley, finely chopped
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Bread: Place the bread halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle each piece lightly with olive oil to help create a golden, crispy base as it bakes.
  3. Add the Sauce: Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce or marinara over the cut sides of the bread, making sure to cover the entire surface for even flavor in every bite.
  4. Layer the Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce, then top with pepperoni slices and thinly sliced red onion if you like. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and beginning to bubble with golden brown spots.
  6. Broil for Extra Crisp: If you like a more toasted, bubbly top, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
  7. Finish & Serve: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Slice into pieces and serve hot, straight from the oven!

Notes

  • Use any bakery bread—baguette or ciabatta work too.
  • Add your favorite toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for extra flavor.
  • For a vegetarian version, skip the pepperoni and load up on veggies.
  • If using store-bought marinara, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Leftovers reheat well in a toaster oven or air fryer for maximum crispiness.

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