North Italia Garlic Bread Recipe
If you have ever tasted garlic bread at North Italia, you know how special it feels. It is crispy outside and soft inside. The flavor is rich with garlic and butter.
Ingredients
- 1 large Italian bread loaf or baguette
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced very fine
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese optional for cheesy version
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 190°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning easier later.
Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter and olive oil. Add minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. The mixture should smell fresh and strong.
Slice the Bread
- Cut the loaf in half lengthwise. You can also slice into thick pieces if you prefer. Place the bread cut side up on the baking tray.
Spread the Garlic Mixture
- Spread the garlic butter evenly over the bread. Make sure to cover all corners. This ensures each bite has full flavor. Do not press too hard.
Add Cheese
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly on top. Add shredded mozzarella if you want extra cheesiness. The cheese will melt and turn golden in the oven.
Bake Until Golden
- Place the tray in the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should turn golden brown. The cheese should melt and bubble slightly.
Broil for Crisp Finish
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning. This step gives the bread a restaurant-style finish.
Slice and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Slice into pieces and serve warm. This North Italia Garlic Bread Recipe tastes best fresh.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder.
- Add crushed red pepper for mild heat.
- Mix cream cheese with butter for extra richness.
- Use sourdough bread for deeper flavor.
- Add fresh basil for a different herbal note.
- Brush olive oil lightly on crust edges for extra crunch.