Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread

Description

Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread

This Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread elevates a classic favorite with a delicious twist. Combining rich garlic butter, fresh basil pesto, and gooey mozzarella on a crispy baguette, it’s perfect for any meal! This flavorful side dish is ready in just 25 minutes and pairs wonderfully with pasta, soups, or salads. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser.

1 loaf French baguette or Italian bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, chopped (garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice bread in half, spread garlic butter, then pesto.
3. Top with cheese, bake for 10-12 mins.
4. Broil for 1-2 mins if desired. Garnish & serve warm!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 509 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the softened unsalted butter with the minced garlic. Season this garlic butter with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Slice your French baguette in half lengthwise. Place both halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the entire cut surface of both bread halves.
5. Next, spread the basil pesto in an even layer over the garlic butter.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pesto, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
8. For a golden-brown, crispy top, switch your oven to broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
9. Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped basil, slice, and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile bread is the ultimate companion dish. Serve it alongside a hearty bowl of tomato basil soup, a fresh garden salad, or any pasta dish like spaghetti bolognese or creamy fettuccine Alfredo. It also makes a fantastic appetizer for parties—simply slice it into smaller pieces before baking for easy-to-grab portions. For a complete Italian feast, pair it with a charcuterie board and a glass of red wine.

How-to Summary

In short: Make garlic butter, slice bread, spread on butter and pesto, top with cheeses, and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden and bubbly. Broil briefly for extra crispiness, garnish, and serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-made garlic bread instead of a plain baguette?
It’s not recommended, as pre-made garlic bread already contains seasoned butter which will compete with and overpower the pesto flavor. A neutral base is best.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the bread (spread with butter, pesto, and cheese) up to 4 hours in advance. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.

What’s a good substitute for mozzarella?
For a sharper flavor, try a blend of provolone and fontina. For a dairy-free version, use your favorite plant-based mozzarella-style shreds.

Can I use homemade pesto?
Absolutely! Fresh homemade pesto will provide the brightest, most vibrant flavor. Store-bought works perfectly for convenience.

Why is my bread soggy?
Sogginess usually comes from under-toasting the bread or using too much butter/pesto. Ensure your oven is fully preheated and spread layers thinly and evenly. The brief broil at the end is key for crispness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using cold butter: Butter must be softened to spread easily without tearing the bread.
• Skipping the broil step: This short blast of high heat is crucial for achieving a perfectly crispy, golden top.
• Overloading with toppings: Too much butter or pesto can make the bread greasy and prevent it from crisping properly.
• Using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents: These can prevent smooth melting. For the gooiest results, shred cheese from a block yourself.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread is a simple yet spectacular upgrade to a classic side. With its layers of savory garlic, herby pesto, and melted cheese, it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Remember the key tips: watch the broil, don’t over-spread, and always serve it warm for the best experience.