French bread pizza

Adapted from the original recipe.

Ingredients List

  • 1 large loaf French or Italian bread (about 18in long, 4in wide), split in half lengthways then crossways
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley or basil (or a mix)
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 x 14.5oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 8oz mozzarella, freshly grated
  • 2oz Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated

Method

  1. Press the cut sides of the bread down firmly until compressed to about two-thirds of their original height — this makes them easier to top
  2. Melt the butter with half the olive oil, stir in the garlic, chilli flakes and oregano, and brush evenly over the cut sides of the bread
  3. Scatter over the mozzarella first and melt it partially under the grill — this stops the pizza going soggy
  4. Spoon over the crushed tomatoes, season with salt, and top with the Parmigiano-Reggiano
  5. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and grill until bubbling and golden
  6. Scatter with the fresh parsley or basil to serve

Notes & thoughts