Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf (30-35 cm) French Baguette (medium, 12-14 inches)
  • 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) Pizza Sauce or Marinara
  • 1 1/2 cups (180 g) Low-Moisture Shredded Mozzarella
  • 2 Tbsp Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/3 cup (50 g) Standard Pepperoni Slices
  • Small handful Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish)
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Loaf: Using a serrated knife, slice the baguette lengthwise down the middle to create two flat halves. Then, cut each half crosswise into 4-inch sections (creating 4 total 'pizzas').
  2. Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
  3. Brush the Bases: Lightly brush the cut side of each baguette section with olive oil. Sprinkle lightly with garlic powder, if using.
  4. Initial Toast (The Crispy Secret): Place the baguette bases, cut-side up, in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Air fry for 3 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This crucial step helps prevent a soggy base.
  5. Assemble Toppings: Remove the bases from the air fryer. Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce over the toasted surface, avoiding the very edges.
  6. Layer Cheese & Toppings: Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella, followed by the pepperoni (or other desired toppings), and finish with a light sprinkle of Parmesan and dried oregano.
  7. Cook the Pizzas: Carefully place the assembled pizzas back into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; the air needs to circulate.
  8. Air Fry to Perfection: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbling, and the crust edges are deep golden brown.
  9. Rest and Garnish: Transfer the hot pizzas to a cutting board. Let rest for 1 minute before sprinkling with fresh basil and red pepper flakes (if using).
  10. Serve Hot: Repeat cooking steps with any remaining batches.