If you are looking to elevate your next gathering or simply enjoy a delicious, cheesy treat, then look no further than this Italian Herbs Cheese Bread. This delightful recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packs a ton of flavor in each bite. It’s the kind of bread that you can serve at family dinners, parties, or even as a tasty appetizer before a lavish meal. With the perfect crispy French bread base, complemented by a rich blend of herbs and gooey cheeses, it is bound to please even the pickiest eaters. Ready in under 20 minutes, this dish is an ideal choice for those craving a savory snack without spending hours in the kitchen.
Your taste buds will thank you as the savory aroma fills your home, and you prepare to enjoy every last morsel. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or at room temperature, the Italian Herbs Cheese Bread will never disappoint. It pairs magnificently with soups, salads, or just sipped alongside a glass of wine. So gather your ingredients, pull out your baking sheet, and prepare to indulge in a culinary experience that’s both easy and delicious!
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
To kick off your cooking adventure, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for melting the cheese and creating that beautifully toasted crunchy exterior.
While your oven is heating up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This step will help in easy cleanup and prevent the bread from sticking. Now, grab your loaf of French bread and slice it in half horizontally, placing both halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet so that they’re ready for the buttery goodness to come.
Next, in a small bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter with the minced garlic and the array of dried herbs: basil, oregano, parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Also, add the salt and black pepper to the mixture, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined to create a fragrant herb butter that will bring your bread to life.
Now for the fun part—use a pastry brush or a spoon to generously spread this herb-infused butter all over the cut sides of the French bread. Make sure you cover every inch so that every bite is filled with that savory herb flavor.
Once the bread is beautifully coated, it’s time to layer on the cheese. Start with the shredded mozzarella, distributing it evenly over the buttered bread halves. Don’t hold back! Follow it up with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
When the oven is ready, place the baking sheet with your cheesy bread into the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese turns bubbly and golden brown, and the edges of the bread are slightly crispy. Keep an eye on it towards the end; ovens can vary, and you’ll want to make sure the delicious aromas don’t lead to burnt bread.
Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the cheesy delight from the oven and allow it to cool for just a few minutes before slicing it into manageable pieces. This is integral, as it will help you avoid burning your fingers, and it lets the cheese set slightly. Now you can serve this warm and satisfying Italian Herbs Cheese Bread, and watch it disappear in no time!
Variations
While the classic recipe is absolutely divine on its own, there are numerous variations that you can explore to keep things interesting. Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Add More Cheeses: Consider incorporating other types of cheese like fontina, gouda, or cheddar for a unique blend of flavors.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the cheese before baking to add a spicy twist.
- Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs if available. Fresh basil and thyme can elevate the flavor even more.
- Vegetarian Add-Ins: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the cheese layer for a heartier option.
- Sourdough Variation: Use sourdough bread instead of French for a tangy twist on the classic flavor.
Cooking Notes
Cooking this Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is relatively straightforward, but here are some tips to ensure it turns out perfect each time:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Quality French bread will provide the best texture and flavor, so choose a good quality loaf.
- Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is fully melted to prevent uneven spreading of your herb mixture.
- Oven Position: Bake on the middle rack for even cooking, ensuring that the bread and cheese melt while not getting too brown.
- Storage: If you have leftovers (although we doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: Keep in mind that preparation and baking time combined is only about 20 minutes, making this a quick and easy option for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is versatile enough to pair with numerous dishes. Here are some tasty suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer prior to a festive meal or a fun party.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a delightful lunch.
- Enjoy with a warm bowl of soup, like tomato basil or minestrone.
- Slice and serve as a side dish with pasta dishes to enhance the Italian experience.
Tips
- Brush your herb butter generously for the fullest flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooling time; this helps avoid a messy serving situation.
- Experiment with different dishes to find your favorite pairing.
- Consider letting your guests customize their bread with various toppings.
- Always have extra cheese on hand for a more indulgent experience.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 17-20 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
Protein: Approximately 8g
Sodium: Approximately 600mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this bread in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the herb butter and slice the bread ahead of time. Just spread the mixture on the bread when ready to bake.
2. Can I use gluten-free bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite gluten-free bread.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven for optimal texture.
4. Can I freeze this bread?
You can freeze the baked bread. Consider slicing it first, then wrapping it in aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.
5. What can I serve it with?
This bread pairs fantastically with soups, salads, or even as a side to your main course dishes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Italian Herbs Cheese Bread brings a delightful mix of flavors that is hard to resist. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a larger meal, this simple yet delicious recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Its versatility allows it to seamlessly fit into any dining occasion, making it a favorite among entertainments. Don’t wait to experience this savory slice of heaven; give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you!
If you enjoyed this recipe or have any tips of your own, please share your thoughts in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you and please feel free to share this recipe with your friends and family!
Print
Delicious Italian Herbs Cheese Bread
- Total Time: 17-20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is a delightful mix of flavors that is hard to resist, perfect for gatherings or a savory snack.
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 your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Slice the French bread in half horizontally and place it cut-side up on the baking sheet.
- Mix melted butter with minced garlic and dried herbs, along with salt and black pepper.
- Spread the herb butter generously over the cut sides of the bread.
- Layer shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
Cooking this Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is straightforward. Use quality bread and ensure butter is fully melted for even spreading.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 600 mg
- Protein: Approximately 8 g