Cheesy Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Slice the Bread
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
- If you prefer smaller pieces, you can slice the bread into individual pieces or slices after spreading the butter mixture.
Step 4: Spread the Garlic Butter
- Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture on the cut sides of both halves of the bread. Be generous to ensure each bite is flavorful.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered bread.
- For extra cheesy goodness, you can add more cheese if desired.
Step 6: Bake the Cheesy Bread
- Place the bread halves (or slices) on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a crispier top, you can broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve
- Remove the cheesy bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch (optional).
- Slice and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Variety: You can add other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the flavor.
- Crispier Bread: For a crispier bottom, bake the bread directly on the oven rack or use a baking stone.
Variations
- Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: Slice the bread into smaller strips before baking for a fun, shareable version.
- Spicy Cheesy Bread: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little heat.
- Bacon Cheesy Bread: For a savory twist, sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the cheese before baking.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Bread
- Simple and Delicious: A comforting, cheesy treat that’s quick and easy to prepare.
- Perfect Side Dish: Great as a side to pasta, soups, or salads.
- Customizable: Make it your own with different cheeses, herbs, and toppings!
Enjoy your cheesy bread! 🧀🍞
