Description
This Caprese Garlic Bread combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with a crispy, buttery garlic bread base. Topped with melted fresh mozzarella, juicy Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze, it’s a perfect appetizer or side dish full of vibrant, fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Butter Mixture
- 1 loaf French bread
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion salt
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Toppings
- 16 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)
- 2 large Roma tomatoes
- 5 ounces balsamic glaze
- ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375 ℉ and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the bread: Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise and place both halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Mix the butter spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with garlic powder, onion salt, kosher salt, and ground pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are blended thoroughly.
- Slice the mozzarella: If your fresh mozzarella isn’t already sliced, place it on a cutting board and use a serrated knife to slice it thinly and evenly.
- Assemble the cheese layer: Spread the butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Then arrange the mozzarella slices closely across the surface of the bread to cover it fully.
- Bake the bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes or until the mozzarella cheese has started to melt and bubble slightly.
- Prepare the fresh toppings: While the bread bakes, thinly slice the Roma tomatoes and chop the fresh basil finely.
- Add fresh toppings and finish: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then layer the tomato slices evenly on top of the melted cheese, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the entire bread, and sprinkle with chopped basil.
- Serve: Cut the Caprese Garlic Bread into 1½- to 2-inch pieces and serve warm as a flavorful appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, high-quality mozzarella and ripe Roma tomatoes.
- The balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang; if unavailable, reduce balsamic vinegar and simmer until thickened to make your own.
- You can customize by adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Serve freshly baked for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Caprese,Garlic Bread,Mozzarella,Basil,Balsamic,Italian Appetizer,Cheesy Bread
