If you love bold flavors and irresistible melty cheese, you are going to fall head over heels for this Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe. It’s a vibrant twist on classic garlic bread, blending an herbaceous chimichurri sauce with the gooey joy of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses all toasted to perfection on crunchy French bread. Whether you are looking for an appetizer to wow your guests or a comforting snack to share with friends, this dish brings a fresh, zesty punch to every bite. Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe, it will quickly become a new staple on your table and in your heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe is wonderfully simple, with ingredients that come together to create layers of incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a special role, from the fresh and fragrant herbs that define the chimichurri to the luscious melting cheeses that make each slice irresistible.
- Parsley (1/3 cup, finely chopped): Adds bright freshness and classic herbal notes essential for authentic chimichurri taste.
- Cilantro (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Brings a lively, slightly citrusy flavor that lifts the entire sauce.
- Red chilis (1 to 2, finely chopped): Offers a gentle heat to balance the richness and add some excitement.
- Dried oregano (2 teaspoons): Deepens the herbaceous profile with warm, earthy nuances.
- Fresh garlic (2 tablespoons, finely minced): Essential for that pungent, savory kick that garlic bread demands.
- Olive oil (3/4 cup): Creates a silky base for the chimichurri and helps all flavors meld together beautifully.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Basic seasonings that highlight and balance the ingredients.
- Red vinegar or lemon/lime juice (1 to 2 tablespoons): Adds the crucial tang to brighten and enhance the chimichurri’s vibrancy.
- French bread loaf (16-ounce): The sturdy, crusty foundation perfect for holding up under the rich toppings.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup): Imparts a salty, nutty flavor that complements the herbs wonderfully.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 to 2 cups): Provides that luscious, melty texture that makes each bite gooey heaven.
How to Make Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to broil and positioning the rack in the middle. This ensures even heat that will melt the cheese perfectly while giving the bread a crisp, golden edge.
Step 2: Prepare the Chimichurri
In a small bowl, combine the parsley, cilantro, red chilis, dried oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and either red vinegar or a squeeze of lemon or lime juice. Stir these together thoroughly. If you have time, let the mixture rest for at least 30 minutes to marry the flavors, but don’t worry, it’s tasty enough to use right away if you’re eager to dive in.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Slice your French bread loaf in half lengthwise and place both halves cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For a cleaner presentation, you can trim the ends off, but it’s totally optional.
Step 4: Assemble the Garlic Bread
Give your chimichurri a quick stir to redistribute any ingredients that settled. Spread a thin, even layer over each bread half, taking care not to overload with oil to keep the bread from becoming soggy. Next, sprinkle on the grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a savory depth, then pile on the shredded mozzarella as generously as you like to create that irresistible cheesy melt.
Step 5: Broil to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the oven on the middle rack and broil for 5 to 8 minutes. Watch closely so the cheese bubbles and turns golden without burning. The edges of the bread should toast up nicely, creating a welcome crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey center.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove your masterpiece from the oven and slice it into triangles or rectangles. Serve warm and watch as everyone reaches for seconds of this cheesy, herb-packed delight. It’s pure comfort and bright flavor in every bite.
How to Serve Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top just before serving. A light drizzle of olive oil or a scattering of chili flakes can also add a nice finishing touch that complements the bold flavors of the chimichurri.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe pairs wonderfully with hearty soups, vibrant salads, and grilled meats. Think roasted tomato soup or a crisp green salad with lemon dressing to balance the richness. It also shines alongside steak or chicken, making it a versatile accompaniment for any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the garlic bread on a rustic wooden board to highlight its artisanal vibe, or arrange it alongside small bowls of extra chimichurri for dipping. For a party, create individual mini portions to let guests help themselves easily. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma will make it a centerpiece everyone talks about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the bread will lose some crispness but the flavor remains fantastic.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled, unbroiled bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before broiling as usual.
Reheating
To revive leftover Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread, bake in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I make the chimichurri ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, letting the chimichurri sit for up to 24 hours enhances its flavor even more. Just store it covered in the fridge until ready to use.
What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
Fresh cilantro is key to the authentic brightness of this recipe, but if you don’t have any, you can increase the parsley slightly or add a pinch of dried cilantro for a hint of that flavor.
Can I use a different type of bread?
French bread provides the perfect crusty base, but you can also use a sturdy Italian loaf or a rustic sourdough. Just make sure it’s firm enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
How spicy is the bread with the red chilis?
The heat is mild to moderate depending on how many chilis you use and their variety. You can adjust the quantity to suit your preference or omit them altogether for a milder version.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Definitely! The Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe scales up easily, making it perfect for family gatherings, parties, or potlucks.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve discovered the magic of this Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe, I hope you’ll give it a try soon. It’s a joyful explosion of textures and flavors that’s easy to make but impressively delicious. Whether for a casual snack or to elevate your next meal, this recipe is certain to become a beloved favorite on your recipe list.
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Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a vibrant twist on classic garlic bread featuring a fresh, herbaceous chimichurri sauce loaded with parsley, cilantro, and red chili, topped with melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Broiled to golden perfection, it makes a perfect appetizer or side dish bursting with bold flavors and gooey cheese.
Ingredients
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
- 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 oven rack in the middle to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Prepare the Chimichurri: In a small bowl, combine finely chopped parsley, cilantro, red chili, dried oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red vinegar or citrus juice. Stir thoroughly. For optimal flavor, let it rest for at least 30 minutes, though it can be used right away if needed.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the 16-ounce French bread loaf lengthwise into two halves. Place each half cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Optionally, trim the ends for more uniform pieces.
- Assemble the Garlic Bread: Stir the chimichurri sauce to redistribute oil, then spread a thin, even layer on each bread half, careful not to oversaturate. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the herb layer, then generously top with shredded mozzarella cheese according to your taste.
- Broil: Place the baking sheet on the oven’s middle rack. Broil the bread for 5 to 8 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The bread is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown around the edges.
- Serve: Remove the cheesy chimichurri garlic bread from the oven, slice it into triangles or rectangles, and serve warm for a delightful appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- Allowing the chimichurri to rest enhances the depth of flavor but is optional if you’re short on time.
- Adjust the number of red chilis to control the heat level of the chimichurri.
- Use fresh minced garlic for the best, vibrant flavor in the chimichurri.
- Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent cheese from burning since broilers can vary in intensity.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor; leftovers can be reheated but may lose some crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Argentinian-inspired
