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Garlic Bread with Cheese and Herbs
Garlic Bread with Cheese and Herbs is the ultimate appetizer that’s quick to make yet packed with flavor. Perfect for entertaining unexpected guests or as a side dish for your favorite pasta, this recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, cheese, and fresh herbs. Its pull-apart style makes it fun to serve, and it’s just as delicious cooled as it is warm. You can even take it to your next picnic or BBQ and reheat it on the grill for a smoky twist!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf of white bread (or any soft, unleavened bread)
- 7 oz (200 g) fermented cheese, grated (or substitute mozzarella or cheddar)
- ½ cup (120 g) butter, melted
- 1 small bunch fresh herbs (e.g., dill, parsley, coriander), chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a very sharp knife, cut the loaf into a checkerboard pattern:
- Slice the bread into long strips without cutting all the way through.
- Rotate the bread and make perpendicular cuts to create a grid. Ensure the loaf remains intact and fluffy.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using a knife or small spatula, carefully spread the butter mixture into the crevices of the bread without tearing it apart.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Generously stuff the grated cheese into the cuts of the bread, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the prepared bread on a large piece of aluminum foil and wrap the edges around the loaf to form a basket. This prevents the butter and cheese from spilling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is slightly golden.
Step 5: Serve
- Carefully remove the bread from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cheese: Use mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor.
- Herbs: Swap with basil, thyme, or chives based on your preference.
- Butter: Replace with olive oil for a lighter alternative.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Wrap leftovers tightly in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or wrap in foil and warm on a grill.
Pro Tips
- Use a bread knife: A serrated knife ensures clean cuts without squishing the bread.
- Even butter distribution: Use a small knife to spread butter evenly in the crevices for consistent flavor.
- Custom add-ins: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Flattened bread: Avoid pressing the loaf while cutting by using a gentle sawing motion.
- Uneven baking: Ensure the foil forms a basket to catch any melted cheese or butter.
Variations & Dietary Adaptations
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Pizza Style: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce inside the crevices before adding cheese.
- Bacon Lover’s: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon between the cuts for a smoky flavor.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free loaf.
- Vegan: Substitute vegan butter and cheese for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair With: Serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Drinks: Enjoy with a glass of white wine, a light beer, or sparkling water with lemon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
