Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible flavors of Italian Cheese Pull-Apart Bread. This mouthwatering bread combines the warmth of freshly baked dough with the savory goodness of Italian herbs and a generous amount of gooey melted cheese. Perfect for sharing with family and friends as an appetizer, snack, or accompaniment to your favorite Italian dishes, this cheesy bread is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Prepare to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience with each cheesy pull-apart bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of Italian bread or French bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Bread:
- Using a serrated knife, make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart across the top of the loaf of bread, being careful not to cut all the way through the bottom.
- Make the Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stuff with Cheese:
- Gently pry apart the cuts in the bread and drizzle the herb butter mixture into each crevice, making sure to coat the bread evenly.
- Stuff the shredded mozzarella cheese into the cuts, ensuring that each opening is filled with cheese. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the bread.
- Wrap and Bake:
- Wrap the loaf of bread loosely in aluminum foil, leaving the top exposed. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Bread:
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for garnish. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Pull Apart and Enjoy:
- To serve, place the Italian Cheese Pull-Apart Bread on a serving platter and invite your guests to pull off pieces of cheesy goodness. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize the herb butter with your favorite Italian herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or marjoram.
- For extra flavor, you can add thinly sliced pepperoni or cooked crumbled sausage between the cheese layers before baking.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, you can remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the bread to brown slightly.
Italian Cheese Pull-Apart Bread is the ultimate comfort food treat, combining the cheesy goodness of melted mozzarella and Parmesan with the aromatic flavors of garlic and Italian herbs. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, this bread will be a hit at any gathering. So gather your loved ones, pull apart a piece of cheesy goodness, and savor the delectable Italian-inspired treat!