French Bread Pepperoni Pizza (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 loaf (approximately 400 g) French bread

→ Garlic Butter

02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Toppings

04 - 240 ml marinara or pizza sauce
05 - 150 g shredded mozzarella cheese
06 - 16 to 22 slices pepperoni
07 - 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
08 - Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
09 - Finely chopped fresh basil, for serving

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Arrange an oven rack in the center and preheat oven to 200°C. Using a long, serrated knife, slice the French bread in half lengthwise.
02 - Combine melted butter and minced garlic in a small bowl. Brush mixture evenly onto the cut sides of both bread halves.
03 - Place bread cut side up on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until the surface is lightly toasted.
04 - Remove bread from oven. Spread marinara or pizza sauce evenly across each half. Layer mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes on top.
05 - Return topped bread to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
06 - Transfer French bread pizzas to a cutting board. Garnish with chopped fresh basil, slice, and serve immediately.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Customize the toppings by adding sautéed vegetables or cooked sausage for variety. For a meatless option, use sliced mushrooms, peppers, and onions.
02 - To grill, wrap assembled pizzas in foil and heat over medium grill or campfire for 10–15 minutes until cheese melts.
03 - Store leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat in a 190°C oven to restore crispness.