Cheesy Garlic Bread Pizza Recipe
Imagine biting into a crispy, buttery crust topped with gooey cheese and sprinkled with aromatic garlic. This cheesy garlic bread pizza is the perfect fusion of two beloved favorites – garlic bread and pizza. It’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy cravings and impress your friends and family at any gathering.
Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is your answer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delightful treat that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
This cheesy garlic bread pizza is not only easy to make, but it also allows for endless customization. Want to add pepperoni, vegetables, or extra cheese? Go for it! The choice is yours, making this recipe a fun and versatile option for everyone.
Golden Crispy Crust
The foundation of this delightful dish is its golden, crispy crust. Achieving that perfect balance of crunch and softness is crucial for a satisfying bite. Using a loaf of French or Italian bread allows for a sturdy base that can hold up to the toppings, ensuring each slice delivers a delightful texture. As the bread bakes, it transforms into a beautifully toasted canvas, ready to be adorned with the rich flavors that follow.
Flavorful Garlic Butter Spread
Infusing the crust with a rich garlic butter spread is what elevates this dish to a new level of flavor. By mixing softened unsalted butter with minced garlic and Italian seasoning, you create a savory base that seeps into the bread. This spread not only adds moisture but also infuses the entire pizza with aromatic garlic goodness, making each bite a flavorful experience.
Melted Cheese Bliss
No pizza is complete without a generous layer of melted cheese. For this garlic bread pizza, shredded mozzarella cheese is the star. Its creamy texture, when melted, creates that ideal gooeyness that everyone loves. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top enhances the cheesy flavor while adding a slight nuttiness, creating a delightful contrast.
Rich Marinara Sauce
The addition of marinara sauce brings a tangy brightness to the dish. Spread evenly over the garlic butter and cheese, it acts as a perfect complement to the rich flavors of the pizza. The sauce also helps to keep the cheese moist, ensuring a luscious texture while providing a beautiful visual contrast against the golden crust.
Garnishing Touches
Finishing touches are what truly make this garlic bread pizza shine. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and butter. Optional red pepper flakes can also be added to introduce a delightful kick, making each slice a bit more exciting.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Serving this garlic bread pizza on a rustic wooden table enhances its inviting appeal. Cut into generous slices, it’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a casual snack. Pairing it with a side salad or some dipping sauces can elevate the experience, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.
Delicious Garlic Bread Pizza
This garlic bread pizza features a crispy, buttery crust topped with a generous layer of melted cheese and savory garlic. It’s a delightful combination that takes the classic garlic bread to a whole new level, making it a perfect appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread, halved lengthwise
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Red pepper flakes, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Spread the Garlic Butter: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Place the bread on a baking sheet. Spread marinara sauce on top of the garlic butter, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired. Cut into slices and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
