Garlic Cheese Bread from Spaghetti Warehouse features toasted Italian bread smothered in rich garlic butter and melted mozzarella cheese, delivering a warm, crispy, and cheesy appetizer perfect for any meal.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Ensure you use fresh garlic cloves for the richest flavor and finely chop fresh parsley to enhance the bread's aroma and color. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, balancing the 1/2 teaspoon salt already added to the mixture. Opt for freshly shredded mozzarella instead of pre-shredded to achieve better melting and texture. Using a sturdy Italian bread loaf is important for maintaining a crispy texture after toasting. Your homemade Garlic Cheese Bread from Spaghetti Warehouse copycat menu will closely match the warm, crispy, and cheesy appetizer served at the restaurant when these ingredient details are carefully followed.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice Italian bread in half lengthwise on a cutting board.
- Mince garlic cloves and fresh parsley.
- Melt unsalted butter in a mixing bowl (microwave or stovetop).
- Add minced garlic, parsley, and salt to melted butter; stir to combine.
- Use pastry brush to generously spread garlic butter mixture over cut sides of bread.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over buttered bread halves.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of mozzarella.
- Place prepared bread halves on a baking sheet.
- Bake in preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes for golden, crispy top (optional).
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Slice bread into appetizer-sized pieces with a knife.
- Serve warm using spatula to transfer pieces.
Substitution
Garlic Cheese Bread from Spaghetti Warehouse copycat recipes often call for Italian bread, but you can substitute with French or sourdough bread if Italian bread is unavailable, as these alternatives also provide a sturdy base that crisps well in the oven. If fresh garlic is not accessible, garlic powder or garlic paste can be used, though the flavor might be less robust. Butter can be swapped for olive oil for a slightly different taste and a lighter texture. Your choice of cheese can vary; mixing mozzarella with provolone or cheddar can create a unique twist while maintaining a gooey, melty texture. Ensure the bread is evenly coated with the garlic butter mixture using a pastry brush to achieve maximum flavor absorption before baking.
Tips
Ensure the garlic is finely minced to distribute flavor evenly throughout the butter mixture. When spreading garlic butter on the bread, use a pastry brush for an even coating that soaks into the crust without making it soggy. Keep an eye on the bread during the broiling step, as cheese can quickly burn, and you want a golden, crispy top rather than charred. You can warm your serving spatula briefly to easily transfer the hot, cheesy pieces without breaking them apart.
Nutritions
Garlic Cheese Bread from Spaghetti Warehouse provides a substantial source of calcium and protein due to the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. The unsalted butter and Italian bread contribute significant calories and fats, which provide energy but should be consumed in moderation. Garlic adds antioxidants and potential immune-boosting properties, enhancing overall nutrition. Your portion control will determine the overall impact of this flavorful and comforting appetizer on your daily nutrient intake.
Storage
To store your Garlic Cheese Bread, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 350degF (175degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore its warm, crispy texture. Freezing is possible for up to 1 month; thaw completely before reheating to preserve the bread's cheesy, flavorful quality.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute provolone or fontina cheese for mozzarella to add a different melted cheese flavor profile. Using herb-infused butter instead of plain unsalted butter intensifies the garlic herb taste. For extra texture, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or toasted pine nuts on top before baking. To achieve a crispier crust, briefly toast the bread halves before applying the garlic butter mixture.
Allergies
Garlic Cheese Bread from Spaghetti Warehouse contains dairy ingredients like mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to milk proteins or lactose. The bread may also contain gluten, posing a risk for those with wheat allergies or celiac disease. Be sure to check for cross-contamination if you have severe allergies, ensuring your safety while enjoying this popular appetizer.
Why this recipe?
Garlic Cheese Bread from Spaghetti Warehouse is loved for its perfectly toasted garlic-infused bread topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses that create a rich, savory flavor profile. The bread's crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior offer a satisfying texture contrast that complements various meals. Recreating this copycat recipe at home allows you to enjoy the restaurant-quality dish anytime while customizing the ingredients to your taste and dietary preferences. Your homemade version captures the essence of the original, making it a delicious and cost-effective treat.