Looking for a delightful appetizer or a side dish to complement your meals? Look no further! This Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is the perfect blend of savory herbs and gooey cheeses, all on top of a crispy French bread loaf. Ready in under 20 minutes, this easy recipe will become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients:
1 loaf French bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or foil.
Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread loaf in half horizontally. Place both halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Apply the Herb Butter: Using a brush, evenly distribute the herb butter mixture over the cut sides of the French bread halves.
Add the Cheeses: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the herb butter mixture. Follow this with the grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is lightly toasted.
Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Slice and serve warm. Enjoy!
Serving Tips:
Serve Warm: Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. The melted cheese and aromatic herbs are at their peak flavor when freshly baked.
Slice Before Serving: To make it easier for your guests to enjoy, slice the bread into portions before serving. This also helps to showcase the gooey cheese filling.
Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish the sliced bread with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil. It adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Pair with Dips: Serve alongside marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or balsamic reduction for dipping. The combination of flavors will take your taste buds on a delightful journey.
Serve with Complementary Dishes: Italian Herbs Cheese Bread pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside soups, salads, pasta, or as a side to your favorite Italian-inspired meal.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerate: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil. Place in the refrigerator to keep the bread fresh for up to 2-3 days.
Reheat Before Serving: To enjoy the bread again, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help revive the crispy texture and melt the cheese.
Freeze for Later: If you want to store the bread for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.
Thaw Properly: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen bread overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat as directed above.
Avoid Microwaving: While you can microwave leftover bread for a quick fix, it may result in a soggy texture. For the best results, stick to oven reheating methods.
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FAQs:
Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the French bread with other types of bread, such as Italian bread, ciabatta, or even a baguette. Each type of bread will give a slightly different texture and flavor, but they all work well with the herb butter and cheese topping.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor even more. If using fresh herbs, double the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. For example, use 2 teaspoons of fresh basil instead of 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
How can I make this bread ahead of time?
You can prepare the bread up to the point of adding the cheeses. Once the herb butter mixture is spread on the bread, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the cheeses and bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining or meal planning.
What can I do if I don’t have all the herbs listed in the recipe?
If you don’t have all the specific herbs listed, you can still make a delicious herb cheese bread by using what you have. Italian seasoning is a great alternative as it typically contains a mix of basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. Adjust the quantities to your taste, and feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices you enjoy.
Conclusion:
This Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, it’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful combination of herbs and cheeses on a crispy French bread base, and watch it disappear in no time!
📖 Recipe:
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Italian Herbs Cheese Bread
- Total Time: 17-20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the savory flavors of this easy-to-make Italian Herbs Cheese Bread. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or as a tasty appetizer, this recipe combines a crispy French bread base with a rich blend of herbs and gooey cheeses. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s an irresistible treat that pairs well with various dishes.
Ingredients
1 loaf French bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Slice the French bread loaf in half horizontally and place both halves on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush the herb butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the French bread halves.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the herb butter mixture, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is lightly toasted.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
For enhanced flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried herbs. Use double the amount if substituting with fresh herbs.
If you want a spicy kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the herb butter mixture.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2-3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Serves 6-8
