Grilled Garlic Bread Pizza Recipe

Have you ever craved a pizza but also wanted that extra crunch and flavor that only a grill can provide? Well, let me introduce you to my grilled pizza bread masterpiece – it’s the ultimate fusion of gooey cheesy goodness and toasted perfection, ready to transform any casual get-together into an unforgettable feast.

I adore taking a humble loaf of crusty French or Italian bread and turning it into a delicious Grilled Garlic Bread Pizza. By brushing it with olive oil and minced garlic, slathering it with tomato sauce, and covering it with a blanket of mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan, I transform it into a cheesy delight.

But, then again, I have always been a fan of basil.

Grilled Garlic Bread Pizza Recipe Ingredients

• French or Italian Bread: Provides a crispy, satisfying base for pizza toppings.
• Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats and enhances the bread’s flavor.
• Garlic: Infuses rich, aromatic flavor and offers immune-boosting properties.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, offering creamy texture and protein.
• Tomato Sauce: Delivers tangy sweetness and a dose of antioxidants.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavors and extra calcium.
• Fresh Basil: Brightens with fresh, peppery flavor and health benefits.

Grilled Garlic Bread Pizza Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 loaf of crusty French or Italian bread
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sliced pepperoni, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, onions

How to Make this Grilled Garlic Bread Pizza Recipe

1. Set your grill to a temperature of medium heat.

2. Cut the lengthwise bread loaf in half to make two long pieces.

3. Combine the olive oil and minced garlic in a small bowl.

4. With the garlic olive oil mixture, brush the cut sides of the bread.

5. Position the bread, cut side facing down, on the grill that has been preheated. Allow it to grill for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until it has reached a state of light toast.

6. Take the bread off the grill and apply the tomato sauce evenly to each side.

7. Shredded mozzarella cheese should be sprinkled over the tomato sauce.

8. Top with the salt, pepper, dried oregano, and grated Parmesan cheese.

9. Include any desired optional toppings, like sliced pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions.

10. Put the bread back on the grill, cover it, and cook for 5-7 more minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbling. Either before serving or right at the table, garnish with chopped fresh basil.

Grilled Garlic Bread Pizza Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Grill
2. Chef’s knife
3. Cutting board
4. Small bowl
5. Pastry brush
6. Spoon or spatula (for spreading tomato sauce)
7. Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
  
  A: Yes, you can use any sturdy bread like ciabatta or baguette, but ensure it has a good crust to hold up on the grill.
• Q: How do I prevent the bread from burning on the grill?
  
  A: Make sure to preheat the grill to medium heat and monitor it closely while grilling. You can also move the bread to a cooler part of the grill if it starts to brown too quickly.
• Q: Can I prepare the garlic mixture ahead of time?
  
  A: Yes, you can mix the olive oil and minced garlic together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Q: Is it possible to make this recipe without a grill?
  
  A: Absolutely. You can use an oven broiler or a stovetop grill pan. Keep an eye on the bread to prevent burning.
• Q: What can I substitute for fresh basil?
  
  A: If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute with a teaspoon of dried basil.
• Q: How can I make it more flavorful?
  
  A: Add more toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes, and consider a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Grilled Garlic Bread Pizza Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For a richer flavor, melted butter can replace olive oil.
If you want a different cheese profile, replace shredded mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack.
Pesto can replace tomato sauce for a twist.
Romano or Asiago cheese can be used in place of grated Parmesan cheese.
Substituted for chopped fresh basil, fresh parsley or arugula can provide a different herbal note. That said, these substitutes in a pesto sauce will alter its flavor profile.

Pro Tips

1. *Garlic Infusion*: For extra depth, let the olive oil and minced garlic mixture sit for 15-30 minutes before brushing it on the bread. This enhances the garlic infusion and enriches the overall flavor.

2. *Cheese Layering Technique*: To ensure even distribution and melting of the mozzarella cheese, layer half of it over the tomato sauce, then add your optional toppings, and finish with the remaining cheese on top. This traps the toppings and allows for perfectly melted cheese throughout.

3. *Crispier Base*: For a crispier bread base, consider brushing the outer side (non-cut side) of the loaf with a little olive oil before grilling the first time. This can help achieve a golden, toasty crunch.

4. *Herb Boost*: Mix the dried oregano with the tomato sauce before spreading it on the bread. This will help the oregano’s flavor infuse more thoroughly into each bite.

5. *Veggie Prep*: If using vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers as toppings, consider giving them a quick sauté before adding them to the bread. This pre-cooking step enhances their flavor and ensures they are perfectly tender by the time the cheese is melted and bubbly.