Cooking time: 15 minutes

1 (12-ounce) loaf soft French or Italian bread

1 clove garlic, peeled

3/4 cup pizza sauce, store-bought or homemade

1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

1 cup other toppings: sautéed onions, sautéed mushrooms, pepperoni, cooked sausage, cooked bacon, diced peppers, leftover veggies, or any other favorite toppings (optional)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons coarsely chopped or torn fresh basil leaves

Arrange a rack in the top third of the oven and heat the oven to 425 F.

Cut the bread in half crosswise with a serrated knife, then cut each half lengthwise so you have 4 pieces. Place the bread cut side down on a rimmed baking sheet and press down firmly and evenly with your hands until it's compressed by about half.

Flip the bread so that it's cut side up. Bake until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and rub the cut sides of the bread all over with the garlic clove.

Spread the pizza sauce evenly onto the bread. Sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese and pile on additional toppings, if using.

Bake the pizzas until the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 10 minutes.

Sprinkle with the Parmesan and basil. Cut each pizza in half and serve immediately.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

(Sheela Prakash is a writer for TheKitchn.com, a nationally known blog for people who love food and home cooking. Submit any comments or questions to editorial@thekitchn.com.)