Description
Cheesy Garlic Bread with Herbed Dip
Ingredients
For the Garlic Bread:
1 large pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
For the Herbed Dip:
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)
1 clove garlic (minced)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Brush generously over the rolled-out dough.
Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the dough.
Bake the Bread:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Prepare the Dip:
In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and chill until ready to serve.
Serve:
Slice the cheesy garlic bread into wedges, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with the herbed dip on the side.
This cheesy garlic bread is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it as an appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or pizza stone. Roll or stretch the pizza dough into a large, even circle or rectangle directly on the prepared surface.
2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning until fully combined.
3. Using a pastry brush, apply the garlic butter mixture evenly across the entire surface of the dough, reaching all the way to the edges for maximum flavor.
4. Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese, over the buttered dough.
5. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Watch closely for the crust to turn a deep golden brown and the cheese to become fully melted and bubbly.
6. While the bread bakes, prepare the dip. In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped parsley, chopped chives, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Cover and refrigerate.
7. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven. Let it cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing into wedges or strips. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with the chilled herbed dip.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy garlic bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standout appetizer at parties or game nights. It pairs perfectly with a bowl of tomato soup, minestrone, or a fresh garden salad for a comforting meal. For an Italian feast, it’s the ideal side for pasta dishes like spaghetti bolognese or lasagna.
How-to Summary
To make cheesy garlic bread with herbed dip, first roll out pizza dough. Brush it with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Top generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then bake at 400°F until golden. For the dip, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh herbs, and garlic. Chill, then serve alongside the warm, sliced bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-made garlic bread instead of pizza dough?
Yes, but the result will be different. Using fresh pizza dough allows for a softer, chewier base that you can customize. Pre-made garlic bread is often already baked and may become too hard or overcooked when adding more cheese.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the herbed dip up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Assemble the garlic bread up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for a few hours. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
What are good substitutes for sour cream in the dip?
Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent, tangy substitute that also adds protein. For a richer dip, you can use full-fat crème fraîche.
My cheese isn’t browning. What can I do?
For a more golden, bubbly top, place the bread under the broiler for the final 1-2 minutes of cooking. Watch it constantly to prevent burning.
Can I freeze the baked garlic bread?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If freezing, cool completely, wrap slices tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through to restore crispness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading the Dough: Using too much butter can make the dough soggy. Apply a generous but even coat.
- Underseasoning: Don’t forget to season the herbed dip adequately with salt and pepper; it’s crucial for balancing the flavors.
- Skipping the Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh parsley and chives in the dip provide a vibrant, bright flavor that dried herbs cannot match.
- Not Preheating the Oven: A properly preheated oven is essential for the dough to cook evenly and the cheese to melt perfectly from the start.
Conclusion
This cheesy garlic bread with herbed dip is more than just a side dish; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines warm, cheesy, garlicky bread with a cool, tangy, and herbaceous dip. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality appetizer at home with minimal effort. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.