Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread
There’s something undeniably delightful about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. Combine that with the rich flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, and gooey cheese, and you have a recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household. This Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread is not just a side dish; it’s a centerpiece that invites everyone to gather around, pull apart a piece, and savor the deliciousness together. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a cozy night in, this dish will elevate any occasion.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to using fresh pizza dough. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic infuses the bread with a vibrant flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. The melting cheese in each pull-apart piece creates a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fun dish to share, making it perfect for gatherings or family meals. Each piece is like a mini explosion of flavor, making it hard to stop at just one!
Ingredient Rundown
To create this mouthwatering Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (500g) fresh pizza dough – This is the base of our bread and keeps things simple.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature – Adds richness and helps to enhance the flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the bread a delicious, aromatic kick.
- 1/3 cup parsley, chopped – Fresh parsley brightens up the flavors.
- 1/3 cup basil, chopped – A classic herb that adds a sweet and slightly peppery flavor.
- 1/4 cup rosemary leaves, chopped – Earthy and fragrant, rosemary pairs perfectly with garlic.
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves – Adds depth and warmth to the overall taste.
- 1 cup shredded Italian cheeses (parmesan, asiago, romano) – A blend of cheeses creates a rich and melty filling.
Setup & Equipment
Before you dive into the recipe, gather the following equipment to make the process smoother:
- Mixing bowl – For combining the garlic, herbs, and butter.
- Baking sheet – To bake the bread on.
- Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – For cutting the dough into pieces.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread Made Stepwise
Now, let’s get into the fun part: making your Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using store-bought fresh pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
Step 2: Make the Herb and Garlic Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, basil, rosemary, and thyme. Mix well until all the herbs are coated in the butter, creating a flavorful herb spread.
Step 3: Cut the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the fresh pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into squares, roughly 2 inches by 2 inches.
Step 4: Assemble the Bread
Take a square of dough, spread a small amount of the herb and garlic mixture on it, then add a generous pinch of the shredded cheese before stacking another square on top. Repeat this process until you have a stack of squares, then place them upright in a greased baking dish or on the lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Once you’ve assembled your dough stacks, cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the dough to rise slightly. After the resting period, place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, pulling apart each piece to reveal the gooey cheese and aromatic herbs inside. This bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it also makes a fantastic leftover treat!
Substitutions by Category
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to customize your Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread, consider these substitutions:
- Dough: You can use store-bought biscuit dough or even homemade bread dough if you prefer.
- Herbs: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs like oregano or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Any melty cheese will work, such as mozzarella or cheddar, depending on your taste.
- Butter: If you prefer a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter alternative.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
While this recipe is quite straightforward, here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Overmixing the Dough: Be careful not to overwork the pizza dough, as this can result in a tough texture.
- Soggy Bread: Ensure you don’t add too much butter or filling between the layers, as this can lead to sogginess.
- Uneven Baking: Make sure to arrange the dough pieces snugly, but not too tightly, so they bake evenly.
- Burnt Cheese: Keep an eye on the bread towards the end of the baking time to prevent the cheese from burning.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
This Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread can be frozen for later enjoyment. Here’s how to do it:
- Allow the bread to cool completely after baking.
- Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Ask the Chef
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and assemble the bread ahead of time. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What can I serve with this pull-apart bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as an appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach around 200°F (93°C).
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but the flavor will be more concentrated. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! This Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a delightful way to bring friends and family together. Enjoy the process and the wonderful aromas that fill your kitchen. Happy baking!
Garlic Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let the pizza dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, basil, rosemary, and thyme. Mix well until all the herbs are coated.
- Roll out the fresh pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick, then cut the dough into squares, roughly 2 inches by 2 inches.
- Spread a small amount of the herb and garlic mixture on each square, add a pinch of shredded cheese, and stack another square on top. Repeat until you have a stack of squares, then place them upright in a greased baking dish or on the lined baking sheet.
- Cover the dough stacks with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest for about 15-20 minutes. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let the bread cool for a few minutes before serving warm, pulling apart each piece to enjoy the gooey cheese and herbs.
Notes
- For a twist, try using different herbs like oregano or dill.
- Any melty cheese works; consider mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
