Beyond Toast: 10 Delicious French Bread Recipes You’ll Love
French bread, with its crispy crust and soft, airy interior, is a staple in many kitchens. While delicious on its own, its versatility shines when used in a variety of recipes. This article explores 10 delectable ways to transform a simple loaf of French bread into exciting and satisfying meals. From savory breakfasts and lunches to impressive dinners and decadent desserts, get ready to unlock the full potential of this beloved bread!
## 1. Classic Bruschetta: A Taste of Italy
Bruschetta is a simple yet elegant appetizer that showcases the fresh flavors of summer. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and toast the bread to perfection.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
* 2-3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
* 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
* 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
* 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
* 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: Fresh mozzarella, Parmesan cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bread:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush both sides of the French bread slices with olive oil. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
2. **Toast the Bread:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
3. **Garlic Rub:** While the bread is still warm, rub each slice with a clove of minced garlic. This infuses the bread with a subtle garlic flavor.
4. **Prepare the Tomato Topping:** In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Assemble the Bruschetta:** Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread slices. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with fresh mozzarella or Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of fresh flavors.
**Tips & Variations:**
* For a bolder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of minced garlic.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for a little heat.
* Experiment with different toppings, such as pesto, roasted red peppers, or goat cheese.
## 2. French Bread Pizza: A Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
Forget ordering takeout! French bread pizza is a simple and satisfying meal that can be customized with your favorite toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, halved lengthwise
* 1 cup pizza sauce
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, etc.)
* Optional: Italian seasoning, garlic powder
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bread:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the French bread halves on a baking sheet, cut-side up.
2. **Sauce and Cheese:** Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the bread halves. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
3. **Add Toppings:** Arrange your desired pizza toppings over the cheese.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the toppings are cooked through.
5. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* For a crispier crust, bake the bread halves for a few minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.
* Use a variety of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Try provolone, cheddar, or Parmesan.
* Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or garlic powder for extra flavor.
* Get creative with your toppings! Try Hawaiian pizza with ham and pineapple, or a vegetarian pizza with spinach, mushrooms, and onions.
## 3. French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Brunch Staple
This French toast casserole is perfect for a lazy weekend brunch or a holiday gathering. It can be prepared the night before, making it a stress-free option for entertaining.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 8 eggs
* 2 cups milk
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Pinch of salt
* Topping (optional): Streusel topping, fresh berries, maple syrup
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bread:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the cubed French bread evenly in the dish.
2. **Make the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. **Soak the Bread:** Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is moistened. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard.
4. **Refrigerate (Optional):** Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard.
5. **Bake:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If desired, sprinkle a streusel topping over the casserole.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with fresh berries and maple syrup, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use challah or brioche bread for an even richer flavor.
* Add fruit to the casserole, such as blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples.
* For a chocolatey twist, add chocolate chips to the custard mixture.
* Make a streusel topping with flour, butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
## 4. French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese: Comfort Food Elevated
This grilled cheese sandwich takes the classic comfort food to a whole new level by incorporating the rich flavors of French onion soup.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into thick slices
* 4 tablespoons butter, softened
* 1 large onion, thinly sliced
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup beef broth
* 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 slices Gruyere cheese
* 2 slices Swiss cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Caramelize the Onions:** Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 30-40 minutes. Reduce the heat to low if the onions start to burn.
2. **Add Garlic and Broth:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute. Pour in the beef broth and balsamic vinegar. Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the liquid has reduced slightly, about 5-10 minutes.
3. **Prepare the Bread:** Spread the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter on one side of each slice of French bread.
4. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top each slice with a slice of Gruyere cheese, half of the caramelized onions, and a slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the remaining slices of bread, butter-side up.
5. **Grill the Sandwich:** Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
6. **Serve:** Slice the grilled cheese in half and serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor. Try fontina, provolone, or mozzarella.
* Add a sprig of thyme to the onions while they are caramelizing for extra flavor.
* Serve with a side of French onion soup for a complete meal.
## 5. Bread Pudding: A Sweet and Indulgent Treat
Bread pudding is a classic dessert that is perfect for using up stale French bread. This recipe is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 4 eggs
* 2 cups milk
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup sugar
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Pinch of salt
* 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
* Sauce (optional): Caramel sauce, vanilla sauce, chocolate sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bread:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the cubed French bread evenly in the dish.
2. **Make the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. **Soak the Bread:** Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is moistened. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard. Sprinkle with raisins and chopped nuts, if desired.
4. **Refrigerate (Optional):** Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard.
5. **Bake:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in a larger baking pan and fill the pan with hot water, creating a water bath. This will help the bread pudding cook evenly and prevent it from drying out.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite sauce, such as caramel sauce, vanilla sauce, or chocolate sauce.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use stale bread for the best results. This will help the bread absorb the custard better.
* Add fruit to the bread pudding, such as chopped apples, pears, or berries.
* For a boozy twist, add a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard mixture.
* Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
## 6. Croque Monsieur: A Classic French Sandwich
The Croque Monsieur is a sophisticated ham and cheese sandwich that is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. It’s topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and broiled until golden brown.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into thick slices
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 tablespoons flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 slices Gruyere cheese
* 4 slices ham
* Optional: Dijon mustard
**Instructions:**
1. **Make the Béchamel Sauce:** Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
2. **Prepare the Bread:** Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (if using) on one side of each slice of French bread.
3. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Top two slices of bread with a slice of Gruyere cheese, a slice of ham, and another slice of Gruyere cheese. Top with the remaining slices of bread.
4. **Top with Béchamel Sauce:** Spread a generous layer of béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich.
5. **Broil:** Preheat your broiler. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the béchamel sauce is golden brown and bubbly.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* For a Croque Madame, top the sandwich with a fried egg before serving.
* Use different cheeses for a more complex flavor. Try Emmental, Comté, or Swiss.
* Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the top of the béchamel sauce before broiling.
## 7. Garlic Bread: A Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that is perfect for serving with pasta, soup, or salad. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, halved lengthwise
* 1/2 cup butter, softened
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Garlic Butter:** In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. **Spread the Garlic Butter:** Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the French bread halves.
3. **Bake or Broil:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or preheat your broiler. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the garlic butter is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
4. **Serve:** Slice and serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* Top with shredded mozzarella cheese before baking or broiling.
* Use different herbs, such as oregano, basil, or thyme.
## 8. French Bread Stuffing: A Delicious Holiday Side Dish
This French bread stuffing is a flavorful and hearty side dish that is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s made with French bread, sausage, vegetables, and herbs.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 pound sausage, removed from casing
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried sage
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1/2 cup butter, melted
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bread:** Spread the cubed French bread on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is dried out. Alternatively, let the bread sit out overnight to dry.
2. **Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:** Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the onion, celery, and carrots to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic, sage, thyme, and rosemary and cook for another minute.
3. **Combine the Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, sausage and vegetable mixture, salt, and pepper.
4. **Add the Broth and Butter:** Pour the chicken broth and melted butter over the bread mixture and toss to combine. Make sure all the bread is moistened.
5. **Bake:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Transfer the stuffing to the dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
6. **Serve:** Serve hot.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add cranberries or apples for a touch of sweetness.
* Use different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo.
* Add mushrooms for a more earthy flavor.
* Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
## 9. French Bread Croutons: Perfect for Soups and Salads
Homemade croutons are a simple way to elevate your soups and salads. They’re crispy, flavorful, and much better than store-bought croutons.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Croutons:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cubed French bread, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
2. **Bake:** Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. **Bake:** Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Toss halfway through baking.
4. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before serving. Store in an airtight container.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use different herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
* Add Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor.
* Toast the bread in a skillet instead of baking it.
## 10. French Bread Breakfast Strata: An Overnight Sensation
This breakfast strata is a delicious and easy way to feed a crowd. It’s made with French bread, eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats and vegetables. Prepare it the night before for a stress-free morning.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 8 eggs
* 2 cups milk
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage
* 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (onions, peppers, mushrooms, spinach, etc.)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bread:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the cubed French bread evenly in the dish.
2. **Cook the Meat and Vegetables:** Cook the bacon or sausage until crispy. Cook the vegetables until softened.
3. **Make the Egg Mixture:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. **Assemble the Strata:** Sprinkle the cheese, bacon or sausage, and vegetables over the bread cubes. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is moistened. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard.
5. **Refrigerate:** Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
6. **Bake:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the strata for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use different cheeses, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
* Add different meats, such as ham or Canadian bacon.
* Use different vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini.
* Add a sprinkle of hot sauce for a little heat.
These 10 recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique French bread creations. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for entertaining, French bread is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into something truly special. Enjoy!