grilled french bread pizza with mushroom pesto and fontina cheese
Author of this recipe: Evonne Feiertag
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"Try this grilled French bread pizza with creamy mushroom pesto and melted fontina cheese—quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Perfect for summer grilling."
Here’s a list of all the ingredients for a **grilled French bread pizza with mushroom pesto and fontina cheese**, optimized for SEO and formatted with relevant keywords:
- **French bread loaf** (1, for the pizza base)
- **Mushroom pesto** (1 cup, homemade or store-bought)
- **Fontina cheese** (1 cup, shredded, for a creamy, melty topping)
- **Cremini mushrooms** (1 cup, sliced, for added earthy flavor)
- **Garlic cloves** (2, minced, for extra aroma)
- **Extra virgin olive oil** (2 tbsp, for brushing and grilling)
- **Fresh basil leaves** (¼ cup, chopped, for garnish)
- **Red pepper flakes** (½ tsp, optional, for a spicy kick)
- **Salt** (to taste, for seasoning)
- **Black pepper** (to taste, freshly ground)
- **Parmesan cheese** (¼ cup, grated, for a nutty finish)
This **grilled French bread pizza recipe** is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal, combining the richness of **mushroom pesto** with the creamy melt of **fontina cheese**. Ideal for **summer grilling** or a cozy indoor dinner!
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Steps
# How to Make Grilled French Bread Pizza with Mushroom Pesto and Fontina Cheese
Grilled French bread pizza is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. This recipe combines earthy mushroom pesto, creamy fontina cheese, and crispy grilled bread for a gourmet twist on a classic favorite. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious grilled French bread pizza that will impress your family and friends.
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## **Ingredients**
- 1 loaf of French bread (about 12 inches long)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded fontina cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Mushroom Pesto**
1. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the processor is running until the mixture becomes a smooth pesto. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms in a bit of olive oil until golden brown and tender. Mix the mushrooms into the pesto for a rich, earthy flavor.
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### **2. Prepare the French Bread**
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
2. Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise to create two flat pizza bases.
3. Brush the cut sides of the bread lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and add a crispy texture.
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### **3. Grill the Bread**
1. Place the bread cut-side down on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes until lightly charred and crispy.
2. Flip the bread and grill the other side for 1-2 minutes. Remove from the grill and set aside.
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### **4. Assemble the Pizza**
1. Spread a generous layer of the mushroom pesto evenly over the grilled side of each bread half.
2. Sprinkle the shredded fontina cheese on top of the pesto, ensuring even coverage.
3. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
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### **5. Grill the Pizza**
1. Return the assembled pizza to the grill, cheese-side up. Close the grill lid and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Keep an eye on the pizza to prevent burning, as grills can vary in temperature.
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### **6. Serve and Enjoy**
1. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it cool for 1-2 minutes.
2. Slice into individual portions and serve immediately. Pair with a fresh green salad or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
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## **Tips for Success**
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the fontina cheese and olive oil.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or bake the pizza in the oven at 400°F for 8-10 minutes.
- Customize the toppings by adding caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or fresh arugula after grilling.
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This grilled French bread pizza with mushroom pesto and fontina cheese is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with bold flavors. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy nights in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a gourmet pizza experience at home!