Garlic Cheese Bread

Name: Garlic Cheese Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf of French bread; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste

Garlic cheese bread is a crowd-pleaser that combines the robust flavors of garlic and cheese with soft, warm bread. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a side, making it a versatile addition to any meal. With its gooey cheese and aromatic garlic, every bite is a delight. Follow this simple recipe to create your own version of this beloved classic!

Ingredients

– 1 loaf of French bread
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1/4 of the loaf) contains about 250 calories, 15g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. This information is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the French bread in half lengthwise.
In a bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic.
Add salt and pepper to the garlic butter mixture.
Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley for added flavor.
Place the bread halves on a baking sheet.
Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option. Additionally, use vegan butter and cheese to create a dairy-free version of garlic cheese bread while maintaining delicious flavors.

Serving and Pairings

Garlic cheese bread pairs well with marinara sauce for dipping, making it an excellent companion for pasta dishes, salads, or even soups. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a snack!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover garlic cheese bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just reheat directly from the freezer.

Cooking Mistakes

Not preheating the oven properly can lead to uneven cooking.
Using stale bread may result in a less enjoyable texture.
Overbaking can make the bread too hard.
Not using enough garlic can diminish the flavor.
Skipping the parsley will reduce the freshness of the dish.

Helpful Tips

Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors.
Try adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Let the butter soften at room temperature for easy spreading.
Brush the bread with olive oil for extra richness.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat bread instead?

Yes, whole wheat bread can be used for a healthier option, providing a nutty flavor that complements the garlic and cheese well.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the garlic butter mixture or use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella.

Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter and assemble the bread a few hours before baking. Just cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What can I serve with garlic cheese bread?

Garlic cheese bread is delicious served with soups, salads, or as a side to pasta dishes. It’s also excellent for snacking on its own.

Can I freeze garlic cheese bread?

Yes, you can freeze garlic cheese bread. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing, and reheat from frozen when ready to enjoy.

Conclusion

Garlic cheese bread is a simple yet delectable dish that enhances any meal. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite for many. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a side, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends!