Sourdough Bread Appetizer
A warm, cheesy bread appetizer featuring crispy slices of sourdough infused with garlic, basil, and Parmesan. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a flavorful starter, this dish combines crunchy, buttery goodness with aromatic herbs for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the sourdough bread into 1/2 inch slices without cutting all the way through the bottom.
- Turn the bread 90 degrees and cut again to create a crosshatch pattern.
- Melt the butter and mix in basil, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle the seasoned butter mixture over and into the cuts of the bread.
- Wrap the bread in foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, like rosemary or thyme. If you're out of Parmesan, any hard cheese such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can work well. Keep an eye on the butter mixture to prevent it from burning, especially if you choose to use a higher oven temperature. This appetizer pairs beautifully with Lemon Bisque for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sourdough bread appetizer warm, alongside a fresh salad or as part of a charcuterie board. It also makes a great companion to soups, such as Tomato Basil or a hearty Vegetable Soup. For a festive touch, consider pairing it with Christmas Potatoes during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain the crispness while warming the cheesy, buttery goodness inside.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sourdough Bread Appetizer contains roughly 339 calories, with 7g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the butter mixture and cut the bread in advance. Just drizzle the mixture over the bread right before baking. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings, allowing you to spend more time with guests and less in the kitchen.
What other toppings can I add?
You can customize this recipe by adding toppings like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even cooked bacon bits to the butter mixture for extra flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach, which would complement the cheese beautifully.
What should I serve this with?
This appetizer is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or as part of a larger spread with dips and cheeses. It also complements main dishes like grilled meats or vegetarian recipes, enhancing your meal experience.
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).