Are you looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress your family and friends? Look no further than this delectable Stuffed Garlic Bread recipe. Imagine warm, crusty ciabatta bread loaded with a savory garlic and herb butter mixture, then baked until golden brown and oozing with melted cheese. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course, this stuffed garlic bread is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this irresistible dish!
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 – 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup room temperature butter, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- *optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 large loaf Ciabatta bread
- 1 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped parsley, room temperature butter pieces, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
- Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture forms a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a serrated knife, cut the ciabatta bread horizontally, but not all the way through, creating a pocket in the center.
- Gently spread the prepared garlic butter mixture generously inside the pocket of the bread, making sure to cover both halves evenly.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Bake
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the garlic butter mixture, pressing it gently into the bread.
- Wrap the stuffed ciabatta loaf loosely in aluminum foil, leaving the top exposed.
- Place the wrapped loaf on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the stuffed garlic bread from the oven and carefully unwrap it from the aluminum foil.
- Slice the bread into individual portions and serve hot, allowing the melted cheese and aromatic garlic butter to delight your taste buds.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Add Protein: For a heartier version of stuffed garlic bread, add cooked and shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or thinly sliced pepperoni before sprinkling with cheese.
- Vegetarian Options: Skip the meat and opt for additional veggies like roasted bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms to add flavor and texture.
- Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère to suit your taste preferences.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Simply bring it to room temperature before using.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version
- Substitute almond flour for the ciabatta bread to create a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative.
- Use a blend of cream cheese and butter for the garlic butter mixture, and opt for keto-friendly grated cheese like cheddar or mozzarella.
Low-Carb Version
- Replace the ciabatta bread with low-carb alternatives such as cloud bread, almond flour bread, or keto-friendly tortillas.
- Use a sugar-free sweetener in place of the optional cayenne pepper to keep the recipe low-carb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh? A: While fresh parsley provides the best flavor and texture, you can substitute dried parsley if that’s what you have on hand. Use about half the amount of dried parsley as the recipe calls for fresh.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed garlic bread? A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover stuffed garlic bread for later enjoyment. Wrap the cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I customize the garlic butter mixture? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the garlic butter mixture, such as basil, oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes, to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes! Simply use a gluten-free bread loaf or gluten-free baguette in place of the ciabatta bread to make this recipe gluten-free.
In conclusion, this Stuffed Garlic Bread is a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings with friends and family. With its irresistible combination of savory garlic butter, gooey melted cheese, and crusty bread, it’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser every time you serve it. Plus, with options for keto and low-carb variations, everyone can indulge in this delicious dish without any guilt. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the flavors of this unforgettable stuffed garlic bread!
