Description
This Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is a flavorful and cheesy appetizer featuring a crusty French bread loaf topped with a fragrant herb butter blend and a combination of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for serving warm alongside soups, salads, or as a tasty snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 loaf French bread
Herb Butter Mixture
- 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
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Bread: Slice the French bread loaf in half horizontally to create two long halves. Place both halves cut-side-up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to fully integrate the herbs and seasonings into the butter.
- Apply Herb Butter: Using a brush or spoon, evenly spread the herb butter mixture over the cut sides of the French bread halves, ensuring full coverage to maximize flavor.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the buttered bread halves. Follow with an even layer of grated Parmesan cheese to add sharpness and depth.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden and the bread is toasted lightly around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes so the cheese sets a bit. Slice into serving pieces and enjoy warm as an appetizer or side.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- You can substitute French bread with Italian bread or a sturdy baguette if desired.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs according to your taste preferences.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best results.
