Sausage French Bread Pizza

Introduction

There’s something so comforting about pizza, isn’t there? The gooey cheese, savory sausage, and crispy bread base just come together in a way that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Now, imagine all of that magic happening on a thick, soft slice of French bread. That’s exactly what you get with this Sausage French Bread Pizza. It’s easy to make, comes together in a flash, and is totally customizable, making it the perfect dish for everything from a laid-back dinner to a fun family gathering.

I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of those nights when I needed something quick but delicious. I had French bread, some sausage in the fridge, and all the usual pizza toppings on hand. The result? A pizza that tasted like it had been crafted by a professional, but it was made in less than 30 minutes. That night, Sausage French Bread Pizza became a regular fixture in my household.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just making something simple for yourself, this recipe is sure to win everyone over. And the best part? You don’t need to worry about dough rising or dealing with a pizza stone. You just grab your French bread and let the toppings do all the talking. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving pizza but don’t want to deal with the hassle of takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you exactly why you’re going to fall in love with this Sausage French Bread Pizza. First off, it’s ridiculously easy to make. You’ll only need about 30 minutes from start to finish, and most of the ingredients are probably already sitting in your pantry. It’s so simple, you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner.

The flavor profile is a perfect balance of savory sausage, gooey mozzarella, and just the right amount of seasonings. You get the perfect contrast between the crispy edges of the bread and the melt-in-your-mouth cheese. And the best part? It’s totally customizable! Want to add mushrooms, peppers, or onions? Go for it. Don’t have sausage? Try ground turkey, chicken, or even a veggie version with crumbled tofu. The sky’s the limit.

But what really makes this recipe shine is how family-friendly it is. My niece and nephew love it, and even my picky cousin will devour a slice (or three). It’s one of those recipes that gets everyone excited to eat together. And let’s be honest, the simplicity of it makes it so approachable, even for beginner cooks.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Nutrition Facts:
Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 15g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 loaf of French bread: The base for your pizza! A fresh loaf is key to getting that crispy, golden crust.
• 1 lb Italian sausage (or turkey sausage for a lighter option): This is the star of the show, adding that savory, flavorful punch. You can also use a plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian option.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: This will give you that perfect gooey cheese pull and melty texture.
• ½ cup pizza sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade. I always have some on hand, but feel free to get creative with your sauce.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: This adds a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the sausage and cheese beautifully.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Because, honestly, who doesn’t love garlic? It adds a savory depth that brings everything together.
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes: For just a hint of heat. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can skip this.
• Fresh basil leaves (optional): To sprinkle on top after baking. It gives the pizza a fresh, herby finish that’s just perfect.
• Olive oil: A little drizzle over the bread before baking for that crispy golden crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through each step, and before you know it, you’ll be munching on a hot, delicious Sausage French Bread Pizza.

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for getting that crispy, golden crust while keeping the cheese nice and melty.
2. Prepare the sausage: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want to cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through—about 7-10 minutes. If you’re using turkey sausage or a leaner variety, you might want to add a little olive oil to keep it from sticking.
3. Slice the French bread: Cut your loaf of French bread in half lengthwise. You want to make sure the pieces are even so they cook at the same rate. Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
4. Add the pizza sauce: Spread about ¼ cup of pizza sauce on each half of the bread. Make sure to spread it evenly, all the way to the edges. You don’t want any dry spots!
5. Layer on the sausage: Once your sausage is cooked, spoon it generously over the sauce. Make sure to spread it evenly, so every bite gets a little bit of sausage goodness.
6. Top with cheese and seasonings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sausage. Then, sprinkle the oregano, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese. You can use more or less depending on your personal taste.
7. Drizzle with olive oil: For that crispy, golden crust, drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the bread. Just a light drizzle will do!
8. Bake the pizza: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden and crispy.
9. Add fresh basil: Once the pizza is out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top. It adds a nice, fresh touch that balances the rich sausage and cheese.
10. Slice and serve: Allow the pizza to cool for a couple of minutes before slicing it into 4-6 pieces, depending on how big you want your slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve

While Sausage French Bread Pizza is pretty great on its own, here are a few ways to round out the meal:

• Pair with a side salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the rich, cheesy pizza.
• Serve with garlic bread: For a double-dose of carb love, serve your pizza with some warm, buttery garlic bread.
• Top with extra cheese: If you’re a cheese lover like me, feel free to add a little extra Parmesan or even a sprinkle of feta for some tanginess.
• Make it a platter: Slice up the pizza and arrange it on a platter with other finger foods like veggie sticks, olives, or dips for a fun appetizer spread.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh bread: Make sure your French bread is fresh for the best texture. If it’s a little stale, try lightly toasting it before adding the toppings.
2. Drain the sausage: If you’re using fatty sausage, make sure to drain the excess grease after cooking to prevent the pizza from becoming too greasy.
3. Use a pizza stone: If you want the bread to be extra crispy, bake the pizza on a pizza stone for an even crispier crust.
4. Customize the toppings: You can add any toppings you like! Mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or even olives would all make great additions.
5. Don’t skip the basil: Fresh basil really elevates the pizza. Even if it’s just a little sprinkle on top, it adds a ton of flavor.

Recipe Variations

This Sausage French Bread Pizza is super versatile, so don’t be afraid to mix things up a little! Here are some ideas for customization:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage for a blend of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a delicious veggie version. You could also try using crumbled tofu or tempeh if you’re going for a meat-free alternative.
• Spicy Sausage: If you like a little heat, use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free French bread for a gluten-free version of this recipe. There are plenty of great options out there, and the toppings will still be just as delicious.

Freezing and Storage

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and freeze your pizza:

• Storage: You can store leftover Sausage French Bread Pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to get that crispy crust back.
• Freezing: If you want to make this pizza in advance, you can freeze the assembled pizza before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: For the pizza to bake evenly, a sturdy baking sheet is all you need. Just line it with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.
• Pizza Cutter: To get clean, perfect slices, a pizza cutter works wonders!

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
Yes! Store-bought pizza sauce works just fine in this recipe. I always keep a jar in the pantry for quick meals, but if you have the time, homemade sauce is great too!

How can I make this ahead?
You can assemble the pizza ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat!

Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While French bread gives the perfect texture, you can use Italian bread, baguette slices, or even English muffins for individual-sized pizzas.

Can I freeze the cooked pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the baked pizza as well. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly and freezing.

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Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try this Sausage French Bread Pizza! It’s one of those recipes that’s simple, comforting, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it up for a casual get-together, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t forget to s