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Crispy Caprese Garlic Bread Pizza

Caprese garlic bread pizza - featured image
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This easy Caprese garlic bread pizza combines the classic flavors of fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and melty mozzarella on a crispy garlic bread base. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing comfort food with a fresh twist, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large loaf crusty Italian or French bread (about 14 oz), split lengthwise
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (optional)
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or sliced
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
  • Extra olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). If using convection, set to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, blend softened butter, minced garlic, and sea salt until smooth. Let sit for 10 minutes for stronger garlic flavor if desired.
  3. Slice bread in half lengthwise. Place halves, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Spread garlic butter evenly over bread. Drizzle with olive oil if using.
  4. Bake bread alone for 6-8 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
  5. Remove bread from oven. Layer mozzarella slices across bread, then add tomato slices. Sprinkle with black pepper and Parmesan if using.
  6. Return to oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling. Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra browning if desired.
  7. Scatter torn basil leaves over hot pizza immediately after baking.
  8. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Let cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice and serve. Each half yields 4 hearty slices.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use day-old bread and pre-toast before adding toppings. Blot tomatoes with paper towels if very juicy. Use fresh mozzarella for best texture, but low-moisture works for less liquid. For gluten-free or dairy-free, substitute bread and cheese as needed. Rotate baking sheet halfway through for even browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pizza, garlic bread pizza, easy pizza, basil, tomato, mozzarella, weeknight dinner, vegetarian, comfort food

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/crispy-caprese-garlic-bread-pizza-recipe-easy-fresh-basil-and-tomato/