Dive into a world of cheesy goodness with our irresistible recipe for Mozzarella Bread. This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of melted mozzarella and provolone cheeses with the comforting aroma of garlic and parsley, all nestled within a crusty French bread loaf. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, craving a savory snack, or simply looking to indulge in some homemade comfort food, this Mozzarella Bread is sure to hit the spot. Join us as we explore the art of cheesy bread making and learn how to create a dish that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
Ingredients:
Produce:
- 1 tablespoon minced Garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried Parsley
Baking & Spices:
- 3/4 teaspoon Salt
Bread & Baked Goods:
- 1 loaf French bread
Dairy:
- 1/2 cup Salted Butter
- 8 ounces shredded Mozzarella-Provolone cheese combination
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Bread: Slice the French bread loaf horizontally into halves and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the salted butter until it is fully liquefied.
- Add Garlic and Parsley: Stir the minced garlic and dried parsley into the melted butter until well combined.
- Brush Bread: Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush the garlic and parsley butter mixture over the cut sides of the French bread halves.
- Layer Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella-provolone cheese combination evenly over the buttered bread halves, ensuring that the cheese covers the surface completely.
- Sprinkle Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shredded cheese layer for an extra burst of flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet with the assembled Mozzarella Bread into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the Mozzarella Bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing it into individual servings. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can mix finely chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil into the garlic and parsley butter mixture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor combinations. Gouda, cheddar, or pepper jack would all be delicious alternatives to mozzarella-provolone.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- To make a keto-friendly or low-carb version of Mozzarella Bread, substitute the French bread with a low-carb or keto-friendly bread option such as almond flour bread or cloud bread.
- Replace the butter with melted ghee or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Use a blend of shredded low-moisture mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese without added fillers or starches to reduce the carb content.
In conclusion, Mozzarella Bread is a delightful fusion of cheesy indulgence and comforting simplicity that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. With its buttery garlic and parsley-infused crust, gooey melted cheese, and crispy golden exterior, this bread is a true crowd-pleaser that will elevate any meal or gathering. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or midnight snack, Mozzarella Bread is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of homemade cheesy goodness with this delicious bread.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions): Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried parsley? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use finely chopped fresh parsley or any other herbs of your choice for added flavor and freshness.
Q: Can I make Mozzarella Bread ahead of time? A: While Mozzarella Bread is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prepare the bread in advance and reheat it in the oven just before serving. Simply wrap the cooled bread in aluminum foil and store it at room temperature until ready to reheat.
Q: Can I add additional toppings to the Mozzarella Bread? A: Yes, you can customize Mozzarella Bread with your favorite toppings such as sliced tomatoes, cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or chopped fresh basil. Simply layer the toppings over the cheese before baking.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Mozzarella Bread? A: While it’s best to enjoy Mozzarella Bread fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. To reheat, place the frozen bread in a preheated oven until warmed through and the cheese is melted.
