Pizza Planks(Kids)
Kids will love customizing these mini pizza planks with their favorite toppings, featuring cheesy, saucy flavors on bread for a fun, easy meal or snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Place the loaf of French bread on a cutting board and carefully split it in half lengthwise.
- Remove some of the soft bread from each half to make a slightly hollowed-out loaf.
- Place each bread half on a baking sheet, cut sides up.
- Spoon spaghetti sauce evenly over both halves.
- Arrange sliced pepperoni, drained sliced mushrooms, and shredded Mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the toppings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
- Use your imagination to add your favorite toppings and make the Pizza Planks your own.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance your Pizza Planks, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a different cheese, try substituting with cheddar or a dairy-free option. For a spicier kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking. This dish is perfect for kids to customize, making it a fun activity in the kitchen. Just like with the Sunrise Breakfast Casserole, creativity is key!
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pizza Planks with a side of fresh salad or carrot sticks for a balanced meal. They also pair nicely with a dipping sauce like ranch or garlic butter. For a fun twist, consider making a DIY pizza party where guests can create their own versions, similar to how kids enjoy making their own Graham Date Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pizza Planks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Planks(Kids) contains roughly 534 calories, with 34g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1130mg per serving (49% 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 Pizza Planks?
Absolutely! While French bread is traditional, you can use Italian bread, ciabatta, or even whole wheat bread for a healthier option. Just ensure the bread can hold the toppings without becoming too soggy. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Can I make Pizza Planks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Pizza Planks up to the baking stage. Assemble them, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and pop them in the oven as directed. They make for an easy weeknight dinner!
What are some good toppings for Pizza Planks?
The possibilities are endless! Besides pepperoni and mushrooms, try adding cooked sausage, fresh spinach, or even pineapple for a sweet touch. You can also use different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile. Get creative and let your kids choose their favorites!
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).