Parmesan-Herb Bread
A flavorful garlic bread topped with Parmesan and herbs, then broiled until golden, finished with roasted red peppers for a vibrant, cheesy appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat broiler.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, grated Parmesan, dried parsley flakes, and garlic powder.
- Slice the Italian bread horizontally in half.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly on both cut sides of the bread.
- Place the bread, cut sides up, on a cookie sheet.
- Broil the bread 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese mixture is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the broiler.
- Sprinkle roasted red peppers over the top of the bread.
- Cut each half into 4 pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter to control the saltiness. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones; use three times the amount of fresh parsley for a vibrant taste. If you want a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the butter mixture. Pair this dish with a side of Italian recipes like Mixed Vegetable Pasta for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Parmesan-Herb Bread as an appetizer or a side dish with pasta dishes like Fusilli Tricolore With Artichokes And Sun Dried Tomatoes or a fresh salad. It also makes a great accompaniment to soups. For a delightful touch, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the bread under the broiler for a minute or two until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan-Herb Bread contains roughly 108 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
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 use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or try mozzarella for a milder, gooey texture. Just be mindful that the overall taste and texture of the bread may change slightly.
How do I know when the bread is done broiling?
Watch closely as the bread broils; it typically takes 1 to 2 minutes. The cheese should be golden brown and bubbly. Keep the oven door slightly ajar to monitor the process and prevent burning.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the butter mixture and spread it on the bread ahead of time. Wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, broil it right before eating for the best texture and flavor.
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).