Garlic bread is a beloved staple in many households, known for its savory, buttery taste and irresistible aroma. With our simple yet delectable recipe, you’ll be able to create the perfect cheesy garlic bread from scratch in just four easy steps. Follow along as we guide you through the process of making the dough, shaping it, adding the mouthwatering toppings, and baking it to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Bread Dough:
- 2 cups flour (loosely packed) (260 g)
- 1/2 cup + 2 1/2 tablespoons milk (160 ml)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar (19 g)
- 2 tablespoons oil (30 ml)
For the Topping:
- 175 grams mozzarella cheese (6.2 ounces)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped herbs
- 2 tablespoons butter (30 g)
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread Dough
Creating the perfect garlic bread starts with the dough. Begin by gathering all your ingredients for the dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour, milk, sugar, yeast, salt, butter, and oil. Mix these ingredients together until they form a shaggy mass of dough.
Transfer the dough onto a clean work surface. Knead the dough vigorously until it becomes soft and elastic. This process usually takes about 10 minutes by hand. If you have a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment and knead for approximately 8 minutes. The goal is to achieve a dough that is smooth and stretchy.
Once the dough is well-kneaded, let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll and shape the dough in the next step.
2. Shape into a Rectangle and Fill with Toppings
After the dough has rested, roll it out into a rectangular sheet on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score the dough with a square pattern, leaving a 1/8 inch border around the edges. Be careful not to create too many small squares, as this can lead to an excessive amount of cheese filling.
Spread a generous layer of garlic butter over the top of the dough. To make the garlic butter, simply combine the minced garlic, finely chopped herbs, butter, and a pinch of salt. Next, insert pieces of mozzarella cheese into the creases you created with the knife. This ensures that every bite of your garlic bread is filled with cheesy goodness.
Cover the baking tray with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out.
3. Proof the Shaped Dough
Allow the dough to proof for about 30 minutes, or until it has noticeably puffed up. This proofing stage is crucial as it gives the dough its airy, light texture. The dough should nearly double in size during this time.
4. Bake the Garlic Bread
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the dough has risen, remove the plastic wrap and place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 32-35 minutes, keeping an eye on the bread to ensure it does not over-brown. If the top turns golden brown too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil and continue baking until the bread is fully cooked.
The exact baking time may vary depending on the size and depth of your baking tray. Deeper trays may require more time, while shallower pans may bake more quickly.
Nutritional Information
For those interested in the nutritional breakdown, here’s an estimate per serving:
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 310mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy garlic bread is perfect as a side dish for pasta, soups, or salads. It’s also great for dipping in marinara sauce or enjoying on its own as a delicious snack.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store the garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until it’s hot and crispy again.
History of Garlic Bread
Garlic bread has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The origins can be traced back to the Roman Empire, where soldiers would prepare “panis focacius,” a type of flatbread topped with herbs and garlic. Over the centuries, this simple yet flavorful bread evolved, and with the introduction of cheese, it became the delicious garlic bread we know today. This dish has become a staple in Italian-American cuisine, often served alongside pasta dishes in Italian restaurants around the world.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Bread
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the flavor of your bread.
- Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
- Proper Kneading: Ensure the dough is kneaded well to achieve a soft and fluffy texture.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the bread while it bakes to prevent it from over-browning.
Conclusion
With this easy cheesy garlic bread recipe, you can enjoy a homemade treat that rivals any restaurant offering. The combination of soft, fluffy bread with a crispy crust, gooey melted cheese, and savory garlic butter is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a party, or just as a comforting snack, this garlic bread is sure to be a hit.
