Pizza is one of my all-time favorite foods. I mean, you can seriously put just about anything on a pizza and it will taste good. And it’s usually a go-to for people that don’t want to make dinner that night or don’t have the time to spend slaving away in the kitchen.

So, I had an idea for a quick and simple pizza that takes about 5 minutes to assemble and 20 minutes to cook. For these ones, I just added cheese and pepperoni. My family isn’t much into the “crafty” pizzas like I am – pesto, goat cheese, BBQ chicken, etc. – so I just kept it simple and something that everyone could enjoy.

Like I said before, you can really put anything on them that you want. Just grab whatever you’ve got in your pantry or you favorite toppings and start building! Yummy!

What are Mini French Bread Pizzas?

Mini French Bread Pizzas are a fun and creative twist on traditional pizza. Instead of using pizza dough, we use deli rolls as the base, making them quicker to prepare and perfect for individual servings. This recipe combines the classic flavors of marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and jalapeños, all baked to perfection on a crispy roll. The result is a mouthwatering snack that’s both crunchy and cheesy with a hint of spice.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These mini pizzas can be prepared and baked in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with the toppings. You can add your favorite ingredients or make substitutions to cater to different dietary needs.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love these mini pizzas, and they’re a great way to get them involved in the kitchen. Let them choose their own toppings and assemble their pizzas.
• Perfect for Parties: These mini pizzas are ideal for parties and gatherings. They’re easy to serve and can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

• Deli Rolls: These rolls serve as the perfect base for our mini pizzas, providing a crispy and chewy texture that complements the toppings beautifully.
• Marinara Sauce: A rich and flavorful sauce that adds a tangy and savory element to each bite.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts perfectly, creating a gooey and delicious layer that holds all the toppings together.
• Sliced Pepperoni: Adds a spicy and savory kick, making each mini pizza burst with flavor.
• Jalapeños: These add a spicy heat that balances the richness of the cheese and pepperoni.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlic taste that pairs well with the marinara sauce.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty and salty flavor, elevating the taste of the mini pizzas.
• Dried Parsley: Provides a fresh and slightly bitter note, adding a touch of color and flavor to the finished dish.

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Substitutions & Additions

• Cheese: Feel free to use other types of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Toppings: You can add other toppings like mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, or onions. For a vegetarian option, skip the pepperoni and load up on veggies.
• Sauce: If you prefer a different sauce, try using pesto, Alfredo sauce, or even BBQ sauce for a unique twist.

How to Make this Recipe

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Prepare the Rolls: Slice the deli rolls in half and lay them, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet.

Add the Sauce: Top each roll half with 1-2 tablespoons of marinara sauce, spreading it evenly.

Add the Cheese: Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on each roll half.

Add the Toppings: Place 3-4 slices of pepperoni and jalapeños on each roll. Sprinkle an additional tablespoon of shredded mozzarella on top.

Season: Sprinkle each roll with about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, grated parmesan cheese, and dried parsley.

Bake: Once all the rolls are assembled, bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and turning golden brown.

Cool and Serve: Remove the mini pizzas from the oven and let them cool for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Crispy Rolls: For extra crispy rolls, you can toast the deli rolls in the oven for a few minutes before adding the toppings.
• Even Melting: To ensure even melting, distribute the cheese and toppings evenly across the rolls.
• Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your spice preference. You can also use milder peppers if you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano on top of the mini pizzas before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Pairings: Serve these mini pizzas with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Presentation: Arrange the mini pizzas on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.

Storage Suggestions

Refrigeration: Store any leftover mini pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing: You can also freeze the assembled but unbaked mini pizzas. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can use French baguettes, ciabatta, or any other type of bread you prefer.

Can I make these mini pizzas ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the mini pizzas ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

What other toppings can I use? Feel free to get creative with the toppings. Some popular options include mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, onions, and sausage.

Can I make these mini pizzas gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free rolls or bread as the base.

How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy? Toasting the rolls before adding the toppings can help prevent them from getting soggy.

Mini French Bread Pizzas are a fantastic option for a quick and delicious snack or meal. With their customizable toppings and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy bread, melty cheese, and flavorful toppings. Happy cooking!