French Cheese Bread
A rich, cheesy French bread appetizer featuring melted Old English cheese and pimientos spread over toasted bread, perfect for sharing at parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the cheese and butter together over boiling water.
- Stir in finely chopped pimientos into the cheese mixture.
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Place the bread under the broiler until the cheese is brown and bubbly.
- Slice and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or herbs like oregano to the cheese mixture. If you can't find Old English cheese, a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese works well. Ensure the pimientos are well-drained to avoid excess moisture. This dish is also great with a variety of cheeses, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Serving Suggestions
This French Cheese Bread is perfect as an appetizer or snack, paired with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a charcuterie board, or enjoy it with a glass of white wine. It also makes a delightful accompaniment to dishes like low-calorie ambrosia for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bread under the broiler for a few minutes to restore its crispy texture, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Cheese Bread contains roughly 406 calories, with 6g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply spread it on the bread and broil until bubbly. This makes for a quick and easy appetizer for gatherings.
What can I substitute for pimientos?
If you don't have pimientos, roasted red peppers or chopped jalapeños can be used as alternatives. Both will add a nice flavor and color to the cheese mixture. Just ensure they are finely chopped to blend well with the cheese.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While French or Italian bread is traditional, you can use sourdough or even whole grain bread for a different twist. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the cheese mixture without becoming soggy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).