Imagine pulling a warm, golden loaf of bread from the oven, its tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen as you slice into it to reveal layers of melted cheese and vibrant pesto. This Hasselback Pesto Cheese Bread is not just a dish; it’s an experience that will have your guests begging for the recipe! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this Italian-inspired delight combines the irresistible crunch of crusty bread with gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan, all infused with the fresh flavors of pesto. Ready to elevate your bread game? Let’s dive into the recipe that will turn any meal into a feast!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of crusty bread
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your Hasselback Pesto Cheese Bread bakes evenly and develops a nice golden crust.
- Take the loaf of crusty bread and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp bread knife, make deep cuts into the bread at about 1-inch intervals, being careful not to cut all the way through. The cuts should create a fan-like appearance, allowing space for the pesto and cheese to melt into the bread.
- In a small bowl, combine the pesto sauce and olive oil. Mix well to create a flavorful spread that will soak into the bread.
- Using a spoon or a small spatula, carefully spread the pesto mixture into each of the cuts in the bread, ensuring that the pesto gets into all the crevices for maximum flavor.
- Next, take the shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle it generously into the cuts of the bread, ensuring that each slice is filled with gooey cheese.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the bread, allowing it to fall into the cuts as well. This will add a deliciously nutty flavor to the dish.
- Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top of the bread to help it crisp up in the oven. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the cheeses will already add some saltiness.
- Wrap the loaf of bread in aluminum foil, making sure it is well-sealed to retain moisture while baking.
- Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet and put it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, carefully unwrap the foil to expose the top of the bread. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice.
- Slice the bread into sections, making sure to cut through the base of the loaf, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Hasselback Pesto Cheese Bread as an appetizer or a side dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: Opt for a crusty artisan loaf, such as ciabatta or sourdough, to achieve the best texture and flavor. The crust will add a delightful crunch to your dish.
- Cutting Technique: When making the deep cuts in the bread, ensure you don’t cut all the way through; this will keep the loaf intact and allow the cheese and pesto to melt beautifully within.
- Maximize Flavor: Feel free to customize your pesto! Adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic can give your bread an extra burst of flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique twist. Mixing cheeses can enhance the overall taste profile of the bread.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Hasselback Pesto Cheese Bread with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore that delicious crispy crust.
- Perfect Timing: Keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes of baking. Every oven is different, and you want to catch it just as the cheese starts to bubble and turn golden.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
