Garlicky Herbed French Bread Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack on the upper level.

2. Prepare Garlic Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt together 3 tablespoons of butter and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and 0.5 teaspoon of dried oregano. Let this mixture cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is softened but not browned.

3. Add Fresh Herbs

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in half of your minced parsley or basil and a big pinch of kosher salt.

4. Prepare Bread

Place your bread cut-side-up on a rimmed baking sheet and press it down evenly to compress it to about two-thirds of its original height. Brush half of the garlic mixture over the cut surfaces of the bread.

5. Prepare Tomato Sauce

Return the saucepan with the remaining garlic mixture to the stove and add the can of crushed tomatoes. Increase the heat to medium and bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain a bare simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season the sauce with salt to taste.

6. Add Initial Cheese Layer

Spread a quarter of the grated mozzarella cheese over the bread and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for about 8 minutes, or until the cheese is barely melted.

7. Add Tomato Sauce and Cheese

Remove the bread from the oven and spread the tomato sauce over the surface, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese. Return the bread to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.

8. Finish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and the remaining parsley or basil over the top. Finish with a drizzle of the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the pizza to cool slightly before serving.