Cunetto's garlic cheese bread is legendary. Its reputation precedes it, whispering promises of crispy, garlicky, cheesy goodness. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret within the Cunetto family, we can craft a delicious approximation inspired by its iconic flavor profile. This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, gooey interior, packed with the aromatic punch of garlic and the satisfying richness of cheese.
What Makes Cunetto's Garlic Cheese Bread So Special?
The magic of Cunetto's garlic cheese bread likely lies in a combination of factors: the quality of ingredients, the precise baking technique, and the balance of flavors. While we can't replicate their exact methods, we can strive for a similar outcome by using high-quality ingredients and paying close attention to detail during the baking process. The key is to achieve that perfect crust—crispy and golden brown—while maintaining a soft and pillowy interior.
Ingredients for Our Cunetto-Inspired Garlic Cheese Bread:
- 1 loaf of crusty Italian bread (a day-old loaf works best)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or more, to taste!)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for added freshness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: Preparing the Garlic Butter Infusion
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread is baked to perfection.
- Prepare the garlic butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined. This mixture will be the foundation of your flavorful topping.
Assembling and Baking the Garlic Cheese Bread
- Slice the bread: Cut the bread loaf horizontally into thick slices (about 1 inch). Avoid slicing all the way through; leave the bottom slice intact to create a cohesive loaf.
- Spread the garlic butter: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture onto each slice of bread. Ensure every nook and cranny is coated for maximum flavor.
- Add mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the garlic butter. The mozzarella will melt beautifully and create a gooey, cheesy interior.
- Bake: Place the bread loaf on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the bread is heated through and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serve your Cunetto-inspired garlic cheese bread immediately. It’s best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. It's perfect as a side dish with soups, salads, or pasta, or even as a standalone appetizer.
Variations:
- Add herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme for different flavor profiles.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Different cheeses: Try using a blend of cheeses, such as provolone, Asiago, or Romano, for a more complex flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use other types of bread, but a crusty Italian or sourdough loaf will provide the best results. A softer bread might not crisp up as nicely.
How can I make the bread crispier?
For an extra crispy crust, you can broil the bread for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh from the oven, you can assemble the garlic butter mixture and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Assemble and bake the bread just before serving.
What if I don't have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can be used as a substitute, but use about 1/4 the amount. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
By following this recipe and paying attention to detail, you can create a delicious and satisfying garlic cheese bread that captures the essence of Cunetto's legendary creation. Enjoy!
