That Good Bread
A cheesy, flavorful bread indulgence featuring Swiss cheese, mushrooms, olives, and aromatic spices, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a savory appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the French bread every 2 inches, but not all the way through.
- Place 1/2 slice of Swiss cheese into each slit of the bread.
- Combine melted butter with lemon juice, mustard, poppy seed, dried onion, garlic, mushrooms, and black olive slices.
- Place the bread on heavy aluminum foil and pour the butter mixture over the entire loaf.
- Seal the aluminum foil closed and bake on a cookie sheet for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the butter mixture. If Swiss cheese isn't available, Gruyere or a mild cheddar can be great substitutes. To enhance the garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw. Adjust the amount of mustard to your taste, or try a whole grain variety for added texture. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be served warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
That Good Bread pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup, making it a perfect accompaniment for lunch or dinner. Consider serving it alongside a creamy tomato soup or a hearty vegetable chili. For a brunch option, it complements well with a fruit platter or as a side to dishes like American recipes that feature eggs or hash browns.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bread can be wrapped tightly in aluminum foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the wrapped bread for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can slice and toast individual pieces in a toaster oven for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of That Good Bread contains roughly 223 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 11g 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread with the cheese and butter mixture, wrap it in foil, and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking it straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the mushrooms?
If you're not a fan of mushrooms or have an allergy, you can leave them out entirely or replace them with sautéed bell peppers or spinach for a different flavor profile. Both options will add moisture and a nice texture to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. However, always check the cheese and butter to ensure they meet your dietary requirements, especially if you're aiming for a specific vegetarian diet.
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).