Get ready to transform an ordinary loaf into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone at your table fighting for the first bite! This Garlic Parmesan Pull Apart Bread is not just a side dish – it's a culinary experience that combines the irresistible flavors of buttery garlic, sharp Parmesan, and perfectly crispy bread. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, family gathering, or just craving a decadent treat, this recipe will elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary in just 40 minutes.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (preferably Italian or French)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or prepare a large cast-iron skillet.
- Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully cut the bread into a crosshatch pattern without cutting through the bottom crust. Make cuts about 1-inch apart in both directions, creating a grid-like pattern.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and salt. Stir until well mixed and the garlic is evenly distributed.
- Using a pastry brush, generously coat the entire surface of the bread, making sure the butter mixture seeps into the cuts you've created.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese between all the cuts, ensuring it falls into the bread's crevices. Press gently to help the cheese adhere.
- Wrap the bread loosely in aluminum foil, leaving some space at the top for steam to escape. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to crisp the exterior.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for added color and flavor.
- Serve warm, allowing guests to pull apart the bread sections easily. Best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Tips
- Choose the right bread: Use a fresh, sturdy Italian or French loaf that can hold its shape when cut.
- Cut carefully: Use a sharp serrated knife and make sure not to slice through the bottom crust to keep the bread intact.
- Don't skimp on butter: The garlic butter is key to flavor, so be generous when brushing between the cuts.
- Grate your Parmesan fresh: Pre-grated cheese doesn't melt as beautifully as freshly grated.
- Watch your baking time: The goal is golden, crispy exterior with melted, gooey cheese inside.
- Serve immediately: This bread is best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven when the cheese is still melted and the bread is crisp.
- Get creative with herbs: While parsley is classic, try adding some dried oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
