Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the bread into pieces approximately 1½–2 inches thick.
Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet. Spread 1–2 tablespoons of pizza sauce evenly over each slice.
Top each slice with the browned ground beef or Italian sausage, distributing the meat evenly. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Add fresh basil if desired.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden and the bread is toasted to your liking.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade pizza bread!