Description
Cheesy Garlic Bread elevates classic comfort food with melted mozzarella and rich garlic butter spread across crusty Italian bread. Crisp edges, gooey center, and aromatic herbs promise a mouthwatering experience you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large loaf of Italian or French bread
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Optional Topping:
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare a warm oven at 375°F (190°C) to create the perfect toasting environment for the bread.
- Craft a fragrant garlic butter by thoroughly blending softened butter with finely minced garlic, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt until smooth and aromatic.
- Transform the bread loaf by carefully slicing it lengthwise, creating two equal halves that will serve as the perfect canvas for the garlic butter.
- Lavishly coat the inner surfaces of the bread with the prepared garlic butter mixture, ensuring every crevice is generously covered for maximum flavor.
- Distribute shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the buttered bread, creating a blanket of melty, golden deliciousness.
- Transfer the prepared bread to a baking sheet and slide into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden masterpiece.
- For an extra crispy finish, activate the broiler for the final 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven, let cool briefly to allow the cheese to set, then slice into delectable portions and serve while still warm and irresistibly fragrant.
Notes
- Customize bread types by using sourdough, whole wheat, or gluten-free options for varied dietary needs.
- Reduce butter quantity for a lighter version, replacing some with olive oil to maintain moisture and flavor.
- Experiment with cheese blends like sharp cheddar or parmesan to create unique taste profiles and enhance complexity.
- Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or chives after baking to boost freshness and provide vibrant garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg