Cheesy Garlic Bread

Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe from France with Fresh Parsley and Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cheesy garlic bread is a delicious and indulgent treat that is perfect for serving as a side dish or appetizer. This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese to create a mouthwatering dish that is sure to please any crowd.

History

Cheesy garlic bread is a popular dish that has been enjoyed for many years. It is believed to have originated in Italy, where garlic bread is a common accompaniment to pasta dishes. The addition of cheese to the traditional garlic bread recipe adds an extra layer of flavor and richness that has made it a favorite in households around the world.

Ingredients

French Garlic Bread

1 medium unsliced loaf of french bread
0.5 cup of softened butter
2 halved garlic cloves
1 tsp of dried parsley
0.33 cup of grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Combine butter, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
Soften the mixture at room temperature before using.
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Cut slices down the length of the bread loaf at 1-inch intervals, without cutting all the way through.
Rub the slices and the top of the loaf with the spread.
Wrap the bread in foil, leaving the top partially uncovered.
Bake until heated through, approximately 15 minutes.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the butter mixture for added flavor.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the bread before baking for an extra cheesy twist.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or minced jalapenos to the butter mixture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soften the butter at room temperature before using it in the recipe to ensure that it mixes well with the other ingredients.

- Be careful not to cut all the way through the bread loaf when slicing it, as you want to keep the loaf intact while still allowing the spread to penetrate the bread.

- Wrapping the bread in foil helps to keep it moist and prevents the top from burning while baking.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy garlic bread is best served warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with pasta dishes, soups, or salads.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the cheesy garlic bread in foil helps to keep it moist and prevents the top from burning. Make sure to leave the top of the bread partially uncovered to allow it to crisp up slightly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have French bread on hand, you can use a baguette or Italian bread as a substitute. You can also use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic cloves in a pinch.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Simply let it come to room temperature before spreading it on the bread and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cheesy garlic bread on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cheesy garlic bread pairs well with a variety of dishes, including pasta, soup, salad, or grilled meats. It also makes a great appetizer for a party or gathering.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover cheesy garlic bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and bake in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cheesy garlic bread contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cheesy garlic bread contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of cheesy garlic bread contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of cheesy garlic bread contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cheesy garlic bread is a good source of calcium, thanks to the Parmesan cheese used in the recipe. It also contains small amounts of iron and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter and Parmesan cheese) and wheat (French bread), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Cheesy garlic bread is a rich and indulgent dish that is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content. However, it can be a delicious treat to enjoy on special occasions.

Summary

Cheesy garlic bread is a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for serving as a side dish or appetizer. With its rich flavors and crispy texture, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Cheesy Garlic Bread. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck dinner at a friend's house. As I walked into the kitchen, the smell of garlic and melted cheese filled the air, making my mouth water.

I watched as my friend's grandmother effortlessly whipped up a batch of Cheesy Garlic Bread. She seemed to know exactly what she was doing, not even needing to consult a recipe. The way she sprinkled the garlic and cheese over the bread, then popped it in the oven to bake until golden and crispy, was mesmerizing.

After tasting a piece of the finished bread, I knew I needed to learn how to make it myself. I begged my friend's grandmother to share her recipe with me, and she graciously agreed. She told me that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

I couldn't wait to try making Cheesy Garlic Bread at home. I gathered all the ingredients - a loaf of crusty bread, butter, garlic, parsley, and of course, lots of shredded cheese. As I followed the recipe, I could almost hear my friend's grandmother's voice guiding me through each step.

The aroma of garlic and cheese filled my kitchen as the bread baked in the oven. When it was finally done, I pulled it out and marveled at the golden, bubbly cheese on top. I couldn't resist tearing off a piece and savoring the warm, garlicky goodness.

From that moment on, Cheesy Garlic Bread became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just as a special treat for myself. Each time I made it, I would think back to that summer day when I first learned the recipe and feel grateful for the generosity of my friend's grandmother.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or a dash of red pepper flakes for a little extra kick. I have also experimented with different types of cheese, from sharp cheddar to creamy mozzarella, always striving to create the perfect balance of flavors.

Now, whenever my grandchildren come to visit, they always request my Cheesy Garlic Bread. They love to watch me prepare it, just as I had watched my friend's grandmother all those years ago. I take great pleasure in passing down this recipe to them, knowing that it will be cherished and enjoyed for generations to come.

As I sit here reminiscing about my journey with Cheesy Garlic Bread, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary traditions that have been handed down to me. I am grateful for the friendships that have enriched my life and for the simple pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

And so, I will continue to make Cheesy Garlic Bread with love and care, honoring the legacy of the women who came before me and savoring every bite of this timeless recipe.