The Secret to the Best French Bread Pizza

Instructions

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1. 1 Preheat the broil function on your oven to high and move one rack to the top position, and one rack to the center. Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise, then press each side down with your hands to flatten the surface a bit. Slice in half crosswise and transfer the 4 pieces to a baking sheet. Spread the exposed bread with butter and drizzle with half the olive oil. Broil the loaf until golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes depending on your broiler, then remove and set aside. Turn off the broiler and preheat the oven to 450°F.
2. 2 Add the crushed tomatoes to a small bowl. Add the grated garlic, oregano, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt and mix to combine. Rip the mozzarella cheese with your hands into large pieces. Rip the basil leaves from the stem and set aside.
3. 3 Rub the whole garlic clove onto the cut side of each piece of toasted bread. Spread between 2 and 4 tablespoons of tomato sauce onto each piece of toasted bread, depending on your preference for sauciness. Divide the mozzarella cheese equally over the top of the pizzas and top with a final drizzle of olive oil.
4. 4 Bake on the center rack at 450°F, until the cheese is melted and slightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. You can also give them a final blast on the top rack under the broiler, if desired. Just keep a close eye so the bread doesn’t burn.
5. 5 Season with salt (if needed) and let cool for a few minutes before finishing with the basil leaves. Slice into pieces and serve. If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in tin foil and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Unwrap and reheat in a preheated oven at 400°F until warmed through, about 8 minutes. Love the recipe? Leave us stars and a comment below!