Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe

Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, pesto, and gooey melted cheese on a crusty bread base. Perfect for any meal or gathering, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the Bread: Cut the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic until well combined.
2. Spread on Bread: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.

Step 3: Add Pesto and Cheese

1. Spread Pesto: Spread the basil pesto over the garlic butter layer on each half of the bread.
2. Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto layer.
3. Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Place on Baking Sheet: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Fresh Parsley: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the cheesy pesto garlic bread for a pop of color and extra flavor.
2. Slice and Serve: Slice the bread into individual pieces and serve hot.

Tips and Variations

• Add Red Pepper Flakes: For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cheese before baking.
• Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Herb Butter: Mix fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into the garlic butter for additional flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free loaf of bread if you need a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread is a crowd-pleaser that combines the irresistible flavors of garlic, pesto, and cheese on a crispy, warm loaf of bread. It’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack!

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works great for this recipe. However, if you prefer, you can make your own homemade basil pesto for a fresher taste.

2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prepare the bread with the garlic butter and pesto ahead of time and refrigerate it. Add the cheese just before baking to ensure it melts perfectly.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for the best results.

4. Can I freeze Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread?

Yes, you can freeze the prepared but unbaked bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

5. What other toppings can I add?

You can add toppings like sliced tomatoes, olives, or even cooked bacon for added flavor and texture.

Enjoy your Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread, and watch it disappear off the plate in no time!

Yield: 6

Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe

Print

Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, pesto, and gooey melted cheese on a crusty bread base. Perfect for any meal or gathering, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of 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 leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Bread: Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. Place the halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic. Spread the garlic butter evenly over both halves of the bread.
4. Add Pesto: Spread the basil pesto over the garlic butter layer.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pesto layer.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Broil (Optional): For a golden brown top, broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil. Slice and serve warm.