The other night I went to an “old school” restaurant with red leather booths, veteran staff and food from another decade. A definite detour from my healthy diet! It was so fun to indulge in classic dishes and a version of this garlic bread.
When was the last time I enjoyed that classic American garlic cheese bread? I couldn’t remember, but I knew that this was a splurge-worthy treat. The crispy edges, the melting garlic butter and shredded Parmesan cheese along with shreds of herbs make this an unbeatable bread. Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes this version of the American classic a standout.
Herbed Garlic Cheese Bread
Serves 8- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh oregano leaves, or pinch of dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground white pepper
- 1 large loaf French or sourdough French bread
2. In a small bowl, combine the butter, garlic, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, the basil, thyme, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well blended.
3. Slice the bread in half lengthwise and spread the cut side of each half with half of the butter mixture. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Slice the bread halves into 2-inch-thick slices about three-fourths of the way through. Make sure that you haven’t cut all the way through, and that the crust is still holding the bread together. Wrap each half tightly in aluminum foil.
4. Place the loaves on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. The topping should be bubbling. Remove from the foil wrap and serve immediately.
Advance preparation: This may be prepared four hours in advance through Step 3 and refrigerated. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
