Description
Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a vibrant twist on classic garlic bread, featuring a fresh, herbaceous chimichurri sauce layered with Parmesan and melted mozzarella cheese. This quick and easy recipe delivers a flavorful, crispy, and cheesy appetizer or side in just 23 minutes, perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
Chimichurri Sauce
- 1/3 cup parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 to 2 red chilis, seeds and stems removed, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, finely minced
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons red vinegar, or lemon and lime juice
Bread Topping and Base
- 1 (16-ounce) French bread loaf
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to broil and position the rack in the middle of the oven to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Prepare the Chimichurri: In a small bowl, mix together parsley, cilantro, red chilis, oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and vinegar or citrus juice. Stir thoroughly. For the best flavor, let this mixture sit for at least 30 minutes, though you can use it immediately if short on time.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread loaf lengthwise into two halves and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Trim the ends if you prefer a neater shape.
- Assemble the Garlic Bread: Stir the chimichurri sauce again and spread a light, even layer over each bread half, being careful not to oversaturate with oil. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chimichurri, then top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese according to your preference.
- Broil: Place the baking sheet with the bread in the oven on the middle rack. Broil for 5 to 8 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. The cheese should melt thoroughly and bubble, and the edges of the bread should turn a golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the garlic bread from the oven once perfectly toasted and bubbly. Slice into triangles or rectangles and serve warm for a delicious, herby, cheesy treat.
Notes
- Letting the chimichurri rest for 30 minutes enhances the flavors but using it immediately is fine if pressed for time.
- Adjust the amount of red chili to control the spice level according to your taste.
- Keep a close eye on the bread while broiling to prevent burning.
- You can substitute the French bread with other crusty breads like Italian loaf or ciabatta.
- For a crispier texture, broil for the full 8 minutes but reduce time if you prefer softer cheese topping.
