Garlic toast pizzas on a wooden board with cheese and pepperoni

Garlic Toast Pizzas: A Cozy Twist on a Classic Favorite

by

A Family Favorite from My Grandmother’s Kitchen

There’s something about the smell of garlic and melting cheese that instantly transports me back to my Nonna’s cozy kitchen in Naples. When I was a child, my grandmother would make what she called “pane pizza”—a humble but delicious snack crafted from leftover garlic bread and whatever toppings she had on hand. That rustic, cheesy creation was the inspiration for today’s recipe: Garlic Toast Pizzas.

Fast-forward to my own kitchen today, and I’ve adapted this dish into a quick weeknight favorite that’s just as loved by kids as it is by adults. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a clever appetizer, these Garlic Toast Pizzas deliver the perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and comfort—ready in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love Garlic Toast Pizzas

  • Quick & Easy: Done in less than 30 minutes.
  • Customizable: Use your favorite toppings—pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, or fresh basil.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, pantry staples.
  • Kid-Approved: Mini pizzas are always a hit with little hands.
  • Perfect for Any Season: Whether cozying up in winter or serving at a summer gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious Garlic Toast Pizzas, here’s what you’ll need for 4 servings:

For the Garlic Toast Base:

  • 8 slices of thick-cut Italian or French bread
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Pizza Topping:

  • 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Your choice of toppings:
    • Pepperoni slices
    • Black olives
    • Diced bell peppers
    • Sautéed mushrooms
    • Fresh basil
    • Crushed red pepper (for a kick)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Steps for making garlic toast pizzas from start to finish

Make the Garlic Toast

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and parsley.
  3. Spread the garlic butter generously on one side of each bread slice.
  4. Place the slices butter-side-up on a baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 6–8 minutes, or until golden and slightly crispy.

Add Sauce and Cheese

  1. Remove the toast from the oven but keep it on the tray.
  2. Spoon a layer of pizza or marinara sauce on each slice.
  3. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and a little Parmesan on top.

Add Your Favorite Toppings

Hand pulling cheesy garlic toast pizza with toppings

This is where the fun begins! Add whatever you love—pepperoni, olives, veggies, or fresh herbs.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

  1. Return the tray to the oven.
  2. Bake for another 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for that perfect golden top.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with extra basil or chili flakes. Serve with a side salad or as is!

Tips for the Best Garlic Toast Pizzas

  • Bread Choice: Use a thick, crusty bread that holds up well to toppings and doesn’t get soggy.
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare garlic toast in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Freezer Friendly: Assemble pizzas and freeze them on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and bake when ready.
  • Use Leftovers: Great way to use leftover spaghetti sauce, veggies, or meat.

Caprese garlic toast pizza with mozzarella and tomatoes

1. Caprese Garlic Toast Pizza

  • Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil
  • Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving

2. BBQ Chicken Toast Pizza

  • Swap marinara with BBQ sauce
  • Top with shredded chicken, red onion, and cheddar cheese

3. Veggie Supreme

  • Mushrooms, green bell pepper, red onion, black olives

4. Breakfast Style

  • Add scrambled eggs and cooked bacon
  • Top with cheddar instead of mozzarella

Garlic Toast Pizzas for Every Occasion

Fun-shaped garlic toast pizzas on a party tray for kids

These mini pizzas are so adaptable, they work beautifully for:

  • Game Night Snacks: Serve as finger food with dipping sauces.
  • Kids’ Parties: Set up a build-your-own pizza bar.
  • Quick Lunches: Pair with soup or salad for a full meal.
  • Casual Entertaining: Serve on a charcuterie-style board with olives and antipasti.

Wine Pairing Tips

If you’re serving Garlic Toast Pizzas to adults, try pairing them with:

  • Chianti: Bold yet balanced—classic with tomato-based sauces.
  • Zinfandel: Especially good with pepperoni or spicy toppings.
  • Pinot Grigio: A crisp white that complements veggie toppings.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~380 kcal
  • Protein: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 680mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought garlic toast?

Absolutely! It cuts prep time in half. Just follow from the sauce step.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free bread and ensure toppings are safe for gluten intolerance.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes—air fry at 375°F for 5–6 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Why Garlic Toast Pizzas Are a Game-Changer

There’s something magical about turning humble ingredients into something so satisfying. Garlic Toast Pizzas hit all the right notes—crispy, cheesy, garlicky—and are endlessly adaptable.

Whether you’re introducing little ones to cooking or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this recipe is a no-fail crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

So preheat your oven and gather your toppings—it’s time to make your new favorite weeknight dinner.