Garlic cheese bread is a delightful treat that combines the robust flavor of garlic with the creamy goodness of melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees satisfaction. Whether paired with pasta, enjoyed at a gathering, or served as a snack, it is sure to impress everyone at the table. Get ready to dive into a cheesy, garlicky paradise!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 200 calories, 15g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein. This is based on one slice of garlic cheese bread.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic.
- Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Spread the garlic butter evenly on both halves of the bread.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the buttered bread.
- Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Slice and serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the bread with gluten-free options or use whole grain bread for a healthier twist. For dairy-free versions, try vegan butter and cheese alternatives.
Serving and Pairings
Garlic cheese bread pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce, salads, or as a side to pasta dishes. It is also delicious on its own as a savory snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover garlic cheese bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, wrap in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. It can also be frozen for up to a month.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t use stale bread—fresh bread yields the best texture.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be fragrant, not browned.
- Ensure butter is softened for easy spreading.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this helps even cooking.
- Don’t skip the parsley; it adds freshness.
- Be cautious with salt; cheese can be salty.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing to avoid sogginess.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda.
- Add herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
- For a twist, include sun-dried tomatoes or olives.
- Brush the bread with olive oil for added richness.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, you can use any kind of bread such as ciabatta or sourdough; just adjust baking time as needed.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Ensure the bread is toasted properly and avoid excessive butter; let it cool slightly before serving.
Can I make garlic cheese bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and assemble the bread, then refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Just wrap the baked bread tightly and freeze for up to a month for best results.
How can I make it spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or incorporate diced jalapeños into the garlic butter mix for extra heat.
Conclusion
Garlic cheese bread is a simple yet irresistible dish that can elevate any meal or gathering. With its rich flavors and delightful aroma, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven for a truly satisfying experience.
Garlic Cheese Bread
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic.
- Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Spread the garlic butter evenly on both halves of the bread.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the buttered bread.
- Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Slice and serve warm.
Nutrition
