Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza

If you’re craving a quick, delicious meal that combines the best of garlic bread and pizza, look no further than Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza. This recipe takes thick, buttery slices of French loaf and transforms them into a mouthwatering pizza loaded with garlic, melted mozzarella, and mini pepperoni. It’s comfort food elevated with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day snacks, or anytime you want a cheesy, garlicky treat with minimal fuss.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza truly special is the use of thick-cut French loaf slices as the base. Unlike traditional pizza dough, the Texas toast provides a sturdy, crispy, and buttery foundation that holds up to the rich toppings without getting soggy. The garlic butter mixture infuses each bite with a robust flavor that complements the tangy pizza sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese perfectly. Plus, using mini pepperoni pieces ensures every mouthful has a burst of savory goodness. It’s a clever twist on classic pizza that’s both nostalgic and innovative.

What You’ll Need

• 1 French loaf, sliced into 1-inch (2.5cm) thick slices
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pureed
• 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon chopped parsley leaves for freshness
• 3/4 cup store-bought pizza sauce (choose your favorite brand)
• 8 oz (230g) Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 40 pieces mini pepperoni (ensure they are made from permissible ingredients)

Equipment & Tools

• Baking sheet – for arranging and baking the Texas toast pizzas
• Small bowl – to mix the garlic butter
• Brush – to spread the garlic butter evenly
• Knife – for slicing the loaf and chopping parsley
• Grater – if shredding mozzarella from a block

Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza, Made Easy

Step 1: Prep the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted salted butter with the finely minced or pureed garlic and chopped parsley. Stir well to create a fragrant garlic butter mixture that will soak into the bread and provide that signature flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Slice your French loaf into 1-inch (2.5cm) thick pieces. Lay the slices flat on a baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, generously coat each piece with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to cover the entire top surface for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the store-bought pizza sauce evenly over each slice of garlic buttered bread. The sauce adds a tangy and savory layer that pairs beautifully with the garlic and cheese.

Step 4: Layer the Cheese and Pepperoni

Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each slice. Then, top with mini pepperoni pieces, distributing them evenly so every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Melty

Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The bread should be crispy on the edges but soft and warm inside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute or two. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired. Serve your Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza warm with a side salad or enjoy it as a satisfying snack.

No-Store Runs Needed

• Use leftover French bread or any thick sandwich bread you have on hand.
• Substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder if you don’t have fresh cloves.
• Any shredded cheese blend works if mozzarella isn’t available.
• Mini pepperoni can be swapped with halal-friendly sausage slices or even diced vegetables.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• For an extra crispy crust, broil the Texas toast for 1-2 minutes after baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
• Feel free to experiment with toppings like black olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a veggie twist.
• If you love garlic, add a pinch of garlic powder to the butter mixture for an extra punch.
• Use fresh parsley to brighten the dish, but dried parsley can work in a pinch.

Shelf Life & Storage

Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for the perfect texture and flavor. However, if you have leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy.
• This recipe is not ideal for freezing due to the bread’s texture but can be frozen if wrapped tightly and reheated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of bread for Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza?

Absolutely! While French loaf sliced thickly gives the best texture, you can use thick slices of sourdough or Italian bread as alternatives. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking or swap mini pepperoni for a spicy sausage made from permissible ingredients. You could also mix a bit of hot sauce into the pizza sauce for a subtle kick.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the mini pepperoni and add your favorite vegetables like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or spinach. You can also add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Can I prepare Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza ahead of time?

You can assemble the pizzas ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake them as directed. This makes meal prep easy and convenient!

Next Up in Your Queue

• Whip up a creamy pasta dinner with the Creamy Roasted Garlic Alfredo for a comforting meal.
• Try the flavorful and easy One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for your next weeknight dinner.

Next Steps

Now that you know how simple it is to make Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza, gather your ingredients and start baking. This recipe is a great way to enjoy pizza flavors without the wait or hassle of making dough from scratch. Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a fun snack, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!

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