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Homemade Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread photo

Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread

This Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread is a flavor-packed delight! Perfectly crispy, cheesy, and infused with fresh basil, it's irresistible.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto:
  • 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
For the Bread:
  • 2 (8-inch) bread loaves Italian bread of your choice
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. 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.
  2. While your pesto is blending, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Slice the two loaves of Italian bread in half lengthwise.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese with a generous amount of the freshly made pesto. Mix until evenly coated.
  5. Spread the remaining pesto evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Then, scoop the cheesy pesto mixture onto each half of the bread.
  6. Place the prepared bread halves onto a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  7. Once baked, let the bread cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Fresh basil is key for authentic pesto flavor.
  • Don’t overbake; aim for golden and melty, not burnt.
  • Allow bread to cool slightly before slicing for a neat presentation.