Irresistible Cheesy Garlic Bread with Chili Basil Oil
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This cheesy garlic bread with chili basil oil is a showstopper that works as an appetizer, snack, or party pleaser. The buttery garlic paste, melted cheese, and spicy basil oil create a harmony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Easy to customize and simple to prepare, this recipe promises to become a household favorite. Try it out and share the joy of cooking with those you love!
Author: Binjal Pandya
Recipe type: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2-3
Ingredients
For the Garlic Bread:
1-2 Loaves of Bugatti or Italian Bread
¼ cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese
½ cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
2-3 tbsp Cheddar Cheese (optional)
For the Buttery Garlic Paste:
8-10 Cloves of Garlic, Peeled
2-3 tbsp Olive Oil
1 Sprig of Fresh Rosemary
Pinch of Sea Salt
½ cup Butter, Cubed
¼ cup Fat Italian Parsley
¼ cup Fresh Basil Leaves
1 tsp Italian Seasoning
½ tsp Red Chili Flakes
¼ tsp Ground Pepper
Salt to Taste
For the Chili Basil Oil:
1 tbsp Chopped Fresh Basil Leaves
1-2 tsp Minced Garlic
1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
Salt to Taste
2-3 tbsp Olive Oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Buttery Garlic Paste
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Place garlic cloves, the rosemary sprig, sea salt, and olive oil in a small ceramic baking bowl. Cover and bake until the garlic turns soft.
Once cooled, blend the softened garlic with butter, fresh parsley, basil leaves, Italian seasoning, chili flakes, ground pepper, and salt until smooth.
Chill the paste in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Chili Basil Oil
In a bowl, combine chopped basil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt. Heat olive oil in a small saucepan and pour it over the basil mixture. Stir well and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Cut the bread lengthwise and lay the halves flat on parchment paper. Generously spread the buttery garlic paste across the surface of the bread.
Sprinkle Parmesan, Mozzarella, and Cheddar cheeses evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese layer bubbles and develops golden brown spots.
Remove from the oven, drizzle with chili basil oil, and slice into pieces to serve hot.
Notes
Experiment with bread: While Bugatti or Italian bread works wonderfully, try sourdough or baguette for different textures and flavors. Roast garlic to perfection: Ensure your garlic is soft enough to blend smoothly; over-roasting can make it bitter. Cheese variations: Add Gruyère or Fontina for a creamier finish. Fresh herbs enhance flavor: Use garden-fresh basil and parsley whenever possible for a vibrant taste. Presentation: Serve on a wooden board or alongside a dipping sauce—marinara pairs beautifully.
Recipe by Binjal's VEG Kitchen at https://binjalsvegkitchen.com/irresistible-cheesy-garlic-bread-with-chili-basil-oil/