Thursday, July 1, 2010

4 Cheese French Bread Pizza

I absolutely adore French bread pizzas. So simple, so tasty - I got hooked on those shortly after meeting my hubby, they've been a favorite of ours for years. I will hang my head and admit, I first tried the frozen ones. Now, I'm not a big fan of prepared frozen foods in general, and it wasn't long before I figured out a way to make this one in particular.

During Lent, this meatless basic turns up on the menu fairly often, but even in the summer, when I am crazing some pizza goodness, without a heavy, hearty meal, this twist on the classic pizza is a perfect go-to recipe. Served with a side salad and some marinara dipping sauce, this is a ideal summer meal.

1 loaf French Bread ($.99)
2 T. olive oil ($.15)
1-2 T. finely minced garlic ($.10)
1 T. basil ($.10)
1 C. parmesan ($.60)
2 C. mozzarella cheese, shredded ($1.75)
8 slices provolone cheese ($.50)
3/4 C. Munster, shredded ($.75)
1 T. parsley ($.05)

Heat oven to 400.

Cut French bread in half lengthwise, then width-wise.

Combine garlic, olive oil, and basil. Place french bread on a baking sheet, crust side down. Brush top evenly with seasoned olive oil. Top each portion with 2 slices of provolone, then evenly distribute shredded cheeses. Top with parmesan and parsley.

Bake for 6-9 minutes, or until cheese in melted and lightly golden. Cut into slices and serve with marinara for dipping.

Yields = 4 dinner sized portions or 12 appetizers
Cost: $4.99
Cost: $1.25 (per dinner)
Cost: $.41 (per appetizer)

For variations:

Top with:
Roasted bell pepper strips
Carmelized onion
Grilled chicken breast strips
Thin sliced mushrooms
Crumbled bacon
Black olives
Oregano
Roasted garlic chips
Sundried tomatoes
Or any of your favorite pizza toppings!

No comments:

Post a Comment