If you’re craving a vibrant twist on a classic favorite, this Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe is exactly what you need to elevate snack time or complement any meal. Imagine crusty French bread slathered with a fresh, zesty chimichurri sauce bursting with herbs and garlic, then topped with melty Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. The result is a crispy, ooey-gooey delight that dances between bright, savory, and cheesy flavors in every bite. Once you try this, it will quickly become your go-to comfort food for entertaining or just treating yourself to something special at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one adds a unique touch—herbs bring freshness and color, garlic powers the aroma, and the blend of cheeses gives it that irresistible melt and flavor.
- Parsley, finely chopped: Offers a vibrant, fresh green note that’s a chimichurri staple.
- Cilantro, finely chopped: Adds a slightly citrusy brightness that lifts the whole sauce.
- Red chilis, finely chopped: Provides a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- Dried oregano: Brings warmth and herbal depth to the chimichurri.
- Fresh garlic, finely minced: The heart of garlic bread flavor, pungent and aromatic.
- Olive oil: Creates a luscious, glossy base that binds all the herbs beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors perfectly.
- Red vinegar or lemon/lime juice: Adds a tartness that brightens and sharpens the sauce.
- French bread loaf: The sturdy canvas that gets gloriously toasted and crunchy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nuttiness and a savory bite that complements mozzarella.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible stretchy, cheesy pull.
How to Make Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
First things first, set your oven to broil and position the rack in the middle. This ensures your bread crisps up evenly and the cheese melts to perfection without burning too quickly.
Step 2: Whip Up the Chimichurri
In a small bowl, mix your parsley, cilantro, red chili, oregano, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and vinegar or citrus juice until combined. This vibrant green sauce doesn’t just taste heavenly; it bursts with fresh herbs that will tingle your taste buds. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes if you can, but you can also use it right away if you’re eager to dig in.
Step 3: Prepare Your Bread
Slice your French bread loaf lengthwise, laying the halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If the ends are a bit too hard or thick, trimming them off can make for more evenly toasted pieces and better bites.
Step 4: Layer the Flavors
Give your chimichurri a quick stir, then spread a light but generous layer over both bread halves. Be mindful not to use too much oil so the bread crisps up nicely. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese all over—this upscale salty kick beautifully complements the herbs. Top it off with a hearty handful of mozzarella for that classic gooey pull that garlic bread lovers adore.
Step 5: Broil to Golden Perfection
Place the baking sheet on the oven rack you set earlier and broil for 5 to 8 minutes. Keep a close eye on it; you want bubbly, melting cheese and toasted edges without burning. Once the cheese is lightly golden and bubbling, it’s game over—it’s ready.
Step 6: Slice and Serve Warm
Remove the bread from the oven and let it sit for a moment before slicing into triangles or rectangles. Serve immediately to enjoy the best gooey, crispy, herb-infused flavors that make this Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe so irresistible.
How to Serve Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or cilantro over the top just before serving brightens the dish even more and adds a pop of color. A light drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also add some beautiful finishing touches and layers of subtle heat.
Side Dishes
This garlic bread is a fantastic companion to just about anything! Pair it with a fresh salad to balance the richness, scoop it alongside a hearty pasta dish, or serve it with grilled meats or roasted veggies to soak up all those flavorful juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange the sliced pieces on a wooden board with little bowls of extra chimichurri for dipping. Or create a cheese-stuffed garlic bread pull-apart loaf by cutting deep slices into the bread before spreading the chimichurri and cheese—perfect for sharing and a huge crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe (unlikely, but it happens), store it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days, maintaining its flavors fairly well.
Freezing
You can freeze the chimichurri sauce separately in a small container or ice cube tray for up to 3 months. As for the bread, pre-bake it according to the recipe, cool completely, then freeze wrapped tightly. When ready, thaw and reheat for best taste.
Reheating
To revive the crunchy edges and melty cheese, reheat your garlic bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While French bread is traditional, a sturdy Italian or sourdough loaf also works great. The key is to choose bread with a firm crust and soft interior that crisps nicely under the broiler.
How spicy is the chimichurri in this dish?
The spice level depends on the amount and type of red chilis you use. For a milder taste, reduce the chilis or remove the seeds. For more heat, add extra chili or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
Can I prepare the chimichurri sauce in advance?
Yes! Chimichurri actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to use.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can make a vegan version by skipping the Parmesan and mozzarella and using vegan cheese alternatives. The chimichurri sauce itself is naturally vegan and packed with flavor.
What’s the best way to get the cheese perfectly melted without burning the bread?
Keep the bread on the middle rack and watch it closely while broiling. The cheese should bubble and start to brown within 5-8 minutes. Pull it out just as the edges turn golden to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe is one of those little kitchen treasures that feels both special and simple. It’s bright with fresh herbs, satisfyingly cheesy, and perfectly crispy—everything you want from garlic bread with a bold twist. Serve it to friends, family, or savor it all by yourself; either way, it will add joy to your table and keep you coming back for more.
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Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Argentinian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a flavorful twist on traditional garlic bread, combining a zesty homemade chimichurri sauce with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This recipe features fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of heat from red chilis, broiled to golden perfection on a crusty French bread loaf, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Chimichurri Sauce
- 1/3 cup parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 to 2 red chilis, seeds and stems removed, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, finely minced
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons red vinegar, or lemon and lime juice
Bread and Cheese
- 1 (16-ounce) French bread loaf
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to broil and place the rack in the middle position to ensure even heating for the bread and cheese topping.
- Make Chimichurri: In a small bowl, combine parsley, cilantro, red chili, oregano, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of red vinegar or citrus juice. Stir well to mix all flavors. For best results, let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes to meld, although it can be used immediately if needed.
- Prepare Bread: Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise and place both halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Optionally, trim the ends for a tidier presentation.
- Assemble Bread: Stir the chimichurri and spread a light, even layer onto each half of the bread, being careful not to drizzle too much oil. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, then generously add shredded mozzarella cheese according to preference.
- Broil Bread: Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven. Broil the bread for 5 to 8 minutes, closely monitoring to avoid burning. The cheese should become bubbly and the edges of the bread turn golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the garlic bread from the oven, slice it into triangles or rectangles, and serve warm. Enjoy this cheesy, herb-packed delight fresh from the oven!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chilies or leave some seeds in.
- The chimichurri sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days, which will intensify the flavors.
- Use fresh mozzarella if possible for creamier texture, but shredded regular mozzarella works well too.
- Keep a close eye while broiling, as cheese can burn quickly under high heat.
- You can substitute French bread with Italian bread or baguette for variation.
