Description
Garlic Parmesan Cheese Bread is a deliciously savory and easy-to-make appetizer featuring a crusty French bread loaf generously spread with a creamy mixture of butter, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and scallions, baked to golden perfection with a hint of paprika and finished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 loaf French bread (or other large, crusty loaf)
Spread Mixture
- 1 cup salted butter (softened)
- 6 tbsp mayonnaise
- 6 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
- 3 scallions (white and green parts, chopped)
Garnish & Topping
- Paprika (for dusting)
- 1 sprig parsley (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) to prepare for baking the bread.
- Slice Bread: Slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise and, if possible, cut each half into equal thickness pieces. Set aside these bread halves.
- Prepare Spread Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter and mayonnaise and mix until smooth. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped scallions to the mixture, stirring until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Apply Mixture to Bread: Spread the prepared buttery mixture evenly across both halves of the bread. Lightly sprinkle paprika over the top according to your preference for a subtle smoky flavor and color.
- Wrap Bread in Foil: Create two aluminum foil boats to hold the bread halves and place each half inside. Tent the top with additional aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning during baking and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes to allow the spread to soften and meld with the bread.
- Broil for Finish: Remove the top foil tent, switch your oven to the Broil setting, and broil the bread for 2-4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. The topping should become bubbly and edges of the bread should turn golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for freshness and color, then slice the bread as desired. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- Use softened butter to ensure easy mixing of the spread mixture.
- Create foil boats by folding aluminum foil to comfortably hold the bread halves, which helps contain the spread and keeps the bread moist while baking.
- Watch closely during broiling since broiler temperatures vary and the bread can burn quickly.
- For an extra touch, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the spread mixture.
- This recipe yields 14 servings and is perfect for parties or as a side dish.
