French Bread Barbecue Pizza
A cheesy, flavorful French bread pizza topped with ham, onion, and barbecue sauce, baked until bubbly — perfect for a hearty, casual meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Slice the French bread lengthwise from end to end and place both halves on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Combine vegetable oil and minced garlic in a small bowl and brush on the cut sides of the bread.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sliced ham, thinly sliced onion, and barbecue sauce.
- Cook on the stove for 5 minutes until the mixture is hot and the onion is tender, stirring frequently.
- Spread the ham and onion mixture evenly on the bread halves and top with shredded Muenster cheese.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispy crust, consider toasting the bread before adding the toppings. You can substitute the Muenster cheese with provolone or mozzarella if desired. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ham works well instead of slicing fresh ham. Add some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick. This dish also pairs well with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the barbecue pizza into individual portions and serve alongside a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a delightful meal. It also pairs perfectly with a light beer or iced tea. For a heartier option, consider serving with sides of French fries or potato wedges. This pizza makes a great appetizer for gatherings or game days.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover barbecue pizza should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Bread Barbecue Pizza contains roughly 755 calories, with 17g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 914mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread for this pizza?
Absolutely! While French bread works wonderfully, you can use Italian bread, ciabatta, or even a pre-made pizza crust. Just ensure the bread can hold up to the toppings without getting too soggy.
What can I add to the ham and onion mixture?
Feel free to customize the mixture with your favorite ingredients. Adding pineapple chunks can give a sweet twist, while jalapeños or red pepper flakes can add heat. For a smoky flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or smoked sausage.
Is this recipe suitable for a large gathering?
Yes, this recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Simply use more French bread and adjust the quantities of the toppings accordingly. You can also prepare multiple variations, such as using different meats or vegetables, to cater to different tastes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).