There’s something undeniably magical about garlic bread—the warm, buttery aroma that fills the kitchen, the crispy edges, and the cheesy, gooey center. It’s a comfort food staple that never fails to satisfy, whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty pasta dish or simply enjoying it on its own. But if you’re looking to elevate your garlic bread game to the next level, Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread is the recipe you need to try. With its rich history and unbeatable flavor combination, it’s a dish that stands out from the rest.
This guide will take you step-by-step through the process of creating this classic recipe (Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe ), offering expert tips along the way to ensure you get it right every time. Whether you’re an experienced cook or someone new to the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into what makes this garlic cheese bread so special, how to make it, and why it’s a perfect addition to any meal.
Table of Contents
Why Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Is a Must-Try Recipe
The Story Behind the Recipe
Cunetto’s House of Pasta, a beloved Italian restaurant located in St. Louis, has been serving up delicious, homemade Italian dishes for decades. Among their most popular offerings is the garlic cheese bread—a recipe that has become a local favorite and a staple for anyone who enjoys traditional Italian cuisine. Over the years, this garlic bread has gained a reputation for being the best in the area, and for good reason.
What sets Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread apart from others is its simple yet perfect combination of flavors. The bread is slathered with a rich garlic butter, stuffed with a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and baked until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted to perfection. It’s comfort food at its finest, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a hit.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about this garlic cheese bread recipe is its versatility. It’s the perfect side dish for an Italian dinner, whether you’re serving lasagna, spaghetti, or fettuccine Alfredo. But it’s also great on its own as a snack or appetizer. The combination of garlic, butter, and cheese is universally loved, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering, big or small.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting a dinner party with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your guests.
Ingredients for Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread
Before we get into the steps for making this delicious garlic cheese bread, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need. The best part about this recipe is that it calls for simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
A Note on Ingredients
When it comes to a recipe like this, using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes all the difference. Fresh garlic, for example, will give your bread a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced garlic from a jar. Similarly, freshly grated Parmesan cheese will have a richer, more complex flavor than the pre-packaged variety. While you can certainly use whatever you have on hand, these small upgrades will elevate your dish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your garlic cheese bread turns out perfectly every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices. Be sure to cut only partially through the loaf, leaving the base intact so that the bread holds together as it bakes.
Pro Tip: Use a serrated knife to slice the bread, as it will help you cut through the crust without squishing the soft interior.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the butter.
If you prefer your garlic bread with a bit of a kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture. This will give the bread a subtle heat that complements the richness of the cheese.
Step 3: Spread the Garlic Butter
Using a pastry brush or knife, generously spread the garlic butter between each slice of bread. Be sure to coat both sides of each slice to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Next, it’s time to add the cheese. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan together. Stuff this cheese mixture between each slice of the bread, making sure to get an even distribution throughout the loaf.
Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of extra cheesy bread, feel free to add a little more mozzarella to the recipe. The more cheese, the better!
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Wrap the prepared loaf of bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake the bread for 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the bread to warm through.
After 15 minutes, carefully unwrap the bread and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the top of the bread to crisp up. This step is key to achieving that perfect balance between a soft, cheesy interior and a crispy, golden crust.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top. The parsley adds a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich garlic and cheese.
Let the bread cool for a minute or two before slicing it all the way through. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Garlic Cheese Bread
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
While it may be tempting to take shortcuts with pre-minced garlic or store-bought shredded cheese, fresh ingredients really make a difference in this recipe. Fresh garlic has a more potent flavor, and freshly grated cheese will melt more smoothly and have a better taste than pre-shredded varieties.
2. Experiment with Different Cheeses
While mozzarella and Parmesan are the traditional cheeses used in this recipe, don’t be afraid to experiment with other types of cheese. Cheddar, gouda, or even a bit of blue cheese can add a unique twist to the bread. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well to maintain that gooey, cheesy texture.
3. Add Some Heat
If you like your food with a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter. It’s a simple addition that gives the bread an extra kick without overpowering the other flavors.
4. Make It Ahead of Time
One of the great things about this recipe is that you can prepare it in advance. Simply assemble the bread, wrap it in foil, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. When it’s time to serve, pop the bread in the oven and bake according to the instructions.
5. Keep It Soft or Make It Crispy
The final texture of the bread is up to you. If you prefer your garlic bread to be soft and chewy, leave it wrapped in foil for the entire baking time. For a crispier crust, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions for an Authentic Experience
Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions to help you create a complete meal:
- Serve with Pasta: Garlic cheese bread is the perfect side dish for any pasta dinner. Whether you’re making lasagna, spaghetti, or fettuccine Alfredo, this bread will complement the rich, hearty flavors of the pasta.
- Dip in Marinara Sauce: For an extra indulgent treat, serve the bread with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato sauce pairs beautifully with the cheesy, garlicky bread.
- Accompagnez-le d’une soupe ou d’une salade : For a lighter, lower-calorie dinner, serve bread with a bowl of soup or a fresh salad. Bread adds a hearty, comforting element to the meal without being too heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Ahead of Time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for preparing ahead of time. Simply assemble the bread, wrap it in foil, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, bake according to the recipe instructions, and enjoy!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
While French bread is the best option for this recipe due to its soft interior and crispy crust, you can substitute it with Italian bread or a baguette if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, wrap the bread in foil and store it in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the wrapped bread in a 350°F (175°C)