Active Time

　　15 minutes

　　Total Time

　　40 minutes

　　Forget about the freezer aisle! This classic is just as easy to make from scratch. For a spicy kick, add red-pepper flakes.

　　

Ingredients

4 servings

　　1 (12–14") soft loaf French or Italian bread, split in half lengthwise

　　1 garlic clove, smashed

　　1/2 cup store-bought tomato sauce

　　1 cup coarsely grated mozzarella (about 4 ounces)

　　3 ounces sliced pepperoni

　　1/4 teaspoon crushed red-pepper flakes (optional)

　　2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh basil

　　

Step 1

Position rack in top third of oven and preheat to 425°F. Place bread, cut side up, on a rimmed baking sheet and bake 5 minutes. Remove from oven and rub cut sides with garlic.

　　

Step 2

Spread tomato sauce on cut sides of bread. Top with mozzarella, pepperoni, and red-pepper flakes, if using.

　　

Step 3

Bake until cheese is melted and golden brown, about 10 minutes. Top with basil.