Introduction
Transform humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece with this elevated cheese bread recipe. This isn’t your average bread; it’s a sophisticated side dish, a delightful appetizer, or even a comforting standalone treat, perfect for pairing with a robust soup or a light salad. Experience the exquisite balance of garlic’s pungent aroma and Parmesan’s sharp, nutty notes, all encased within a fluffy, golden-brown bread that will leave you craving more.
Why This Works
This recipe’s success lies in its simplicity and the inherent quality of the ingredients. The careful balance between the sharp Parmesan, the aromatic garlic, and the rich butter creates a depth of flavor that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. The technique ensures a light and airy texture, preventing the bread from becoming dense or heavy. It’s a recipe that’s both accessible to the home cook and impressive enough to grace any dinner table.
Key Ingredients
- 🍞 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 🧀 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 🥛 1 cup milk, warmed
- 🥚 1 large egg
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🌿 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and oregano.
3️⃣ In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, warmed milk, and egg. Whisk until well blended.
4️⃣ Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5️⃣ Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.
6️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7️⃣ Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8️⃣ Let the bread cool slightly in the dish before slicing and serving.
Handy Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add 3 cloves instead of 2.
- For a richer, more decadent bread, use a combination of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheese.
Heat Control
Maintaining the oven temperature at 375°F (190°C) is crucial for achieving the perfect golden-brown color and ensuring the bread bakes through evenly without burning. Lowering the temperature may result in a pale, undercooked bread, while increasing the temperature can lead to burning on the outside before the inside is cooked through.
Crunch Factor
While not a particularly crunchy bread, the edges achieve a delightful crispness when baked to perfection. The interior remains soft and slightly airy, offering a pleasing contrast of textures.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a quicker prep, use a food processor to grate the Parmesan cheese.
- Enhance the garlic flavor by sautéing the minced garlic in a little butter before adding it to the batter. This mellows the garlic and releases its aromatic oils.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or toaster oven before serving.
Gift Packaging Ideas
Slice the cheese bread into individual portions and wrap each slice in parchment paper tied with a ribbon. Alternatively, package the entire loaf in a beautiful loaf tin lined with parchment paper and adorned with a festive ribbon.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Rosemary & Garlic: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, finely chopped, along with the garlic.
🌟 Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil: Incorporate 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of fresh basil.
🌟 Asiago & Black Pepper: Substitute Asiago cheese for Parmesan and add a generous pinch of freshly cracked black pepper.
🌟 Four Cheese Blend: Use a combination of Parmesan, Asiago, Fontina, and Provolone cheeses for a complex and rich flavor profile.
Troubleshooting
- Bread is too dry: This could be due to insufficient milk or overbaking. Next time, add a tablespoon or two more milk and reduce the baking time slightly.
- Bread is gummy: This usually indicates underbaking. Bake for a few more minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Bread is burnt: Reduce oven temperature by 25°F (15°C) next time and monitor closely.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of milk? A: Yes, you can use whole milk, 2% milk, or even almond milk, though the flavor may differ slightly.
Q: Can I make this bread ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the bread ahead of time and store it as described in the storage tips section.
Q: Can I freeze the batter? A: It’s not recommended to freeze the batter, as it may affect the texture of the baked bread.
Conclusion
This elevated cheese bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. We hope you enjoy the delightful aroma and the exquisite balance of flavors in this simple yet sophisticated bread. Share your culinary creation with friends and family and savor every delicious bite!
Parmesan & Garlic Cheese Bread: The Perfect Soup Companion
A deliciously cheesy and garlicky bread that pairs perfectly with your favorite soups.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of crusty bread (such as French or Italian)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180u00b0C (350u00b0F).
- In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise and place it cut side up on a baking sheet.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the bread is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into pieces.
Tips
- For an extra crispy crust, broil the bread for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.