Name: Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cup fresh basil leaves (packed); 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons pine nuts; 4 cloves garlic; 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup water; 2 (8-inch) bread loaves (Italian bread of your choice); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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Nothing elevates a meal quite like a warm, cheesy, and aromatic bread. If you’re looking for a way to impress your guests or simply indulge in a comforting treat, look no further than Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread. This delightful dish is the perfect combination of flavors – the freshness of basil, the nuttiness of pine nuts, the punch of garlic, and, of course, the gooey goodness of melted mozzarella cheese. Ideal for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Reasons to Love Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread

Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread is not just a side; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Flavor Explosion: The vibrant taste of fresh basil combined with the rich garlic and cheesy goodness creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for novice cooks and busy individuals alike.
Versatile Pairing: It pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, salads, or can be enjoyed on its own as a snack.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh basil and quality cheeses ensures a dish that’s not only delicious but also wholesome.
Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delectable Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread, gather the following ingredients:

1-1/2 cups packed fresh basil leaves: The star of the show, fresh basil lends a fragrant and vibrant flavor.
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty and savory depth to the pesto.
2 tablespoons pine nuts: Provides a lovely crunch and richness to the pesto mixture.
4 cloves garlic: A must for that distinct garlicky flavor that complements the pesto.
1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the overall flavor of the pesto.
1/4 cup olive oil: Helps to bring the pesto together into a smooth consistency.
1/4 cup water: Adjusts the texture of the pesto for easier spreading.
2 (8-inch) bread loaves: Any Italian bread of your choice will work beautifully for this recipe.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty cheese that ties everything together.

Tools of the Trade

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools handy:

Food Processor: Essential for blending the pesto ingredients into a smooth mixture.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the pesto with the cheeses.
Baking Sheet: To hold the bread as it bakes to perfection.
Spatula: For spreading the pesto mixture evenly on the bread.
Oven: Your trusty appliance to achieve that golden, bubbly finish.

Make Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread: A Simple Method

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread.

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto

In your food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic cloves, Kosher salt, black pepper, lemon juice, olive oil, and water. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything blends evenly.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While your pesto is blending, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it achieves that perfect, crispy texture when baking.

Step 3: Prep the Bread

Slice the two loaves of Italian bread in half lengthwise. This will create a perfect canvas for your cheesy pesto spread.

Step 4: Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese with a generous amount of the freshly made pesto. Mix until the cheese is evenly coated with the vibrant green mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Bread

Spread the remaining pesto evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Then, scoop the cheesy pesto mixture onto each half of the bread, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.

Step 6: Bake

Place the prepared bread halves onto a baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the bread is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into pieces and serve warm. This Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it’s also great for leftovers.

Fit It to Your Goals

If you want to customize your Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread, consider the following options:

Swap out the pine nuts for walnuts or sunflower seeds for a different nutty flavor.
Use gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick.
Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.

Troubles You Can Avoid

To ensure your Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t skimp on the basil – fresh basil is crucial for that authentic pesto flavor.
Be careful not to overbake the bread; you want it golden and melty, not burnt.
Ensure the garlic is finely minced or blended to avoid large bites of raw garlic in your pesto.
Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing to avoid a messy presentation.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to believe you will!), here’s how to store your Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread:

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the bread. Wrap it well and place it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
To reheat, place the bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.

Weekend Projects

If you’re in the mood for more delicious bread recipes, check out these tasty links:

Sally’s Baking Addiction for classic garlic bread recipes.
Pinch of Yum for creative twists on bread.
Minimalist Baker for simple, wholesome bread options.

The Takeaway

Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread is not just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience that brings together fresh ingredients and comforting flavors. The combination of basil, garlic, and gooey mozzarella creates a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simplicity and versatility, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a slice of cheesy goodness that you and your loved ones will cherish!