I turned a free loaf of French bread from Albertsons into a colorful veggie French bread pizza for dinner. My mom kindly prepped all the toppings while I handled the bread, sauce, cheese, and baking.

These 9 French recipes cover the pieces that make that kind of spread work: a showpiece beef main, a stew, warm cheese, bread, potatoes, onions, pastry, and custard. Some are quick enough for snacks ...

From warm rolls to buttery biscuits and breadsticks, these chain restaurants serve standout bread before dinner.