1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Take the French baguette and slice it in half lengthwise, creating two long halves.
3. Scoop out some of the bread from the center of each half, leaving a hollowed-out space to hold the toppings. You can save the scooped-out bread for other uses like breadcrumbs.
4. Brush the inside of each baguette half with olive oil. This helps to keep the bread moist and adds flavor.
5. Spread the marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the inside of each baguette half.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, covering the entire surface.
7. Add your desired toppings, such as sliced pepperoni or any other pizza toppings you prefer.
8. Place the stuffed baguette halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is toasted.
9. Once cooked, remove the stuffed French bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
10. Optional: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for added freshness and flavor.
11. Slice the stuffed French bread into individual servings and serve warm.
Stuffed French bread is a versatile dish, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. You can add cooked chicken, ham, different types of cheese, vegetables, or any other toppings you enjoy on a pizza. It’s a great option for a quick and tasty meal or a party appetizer. Enjoy!