If you’re looking to upgrade your garlic bread game, Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a crusty baguette slathered with garlicky butter, topped with zippy, herby chimichurri, and finished with a generous layer of molten mozzarella and Parmesan. Every bite is a celebration of vibrant flavors and gooey cheese, making this dish an absolute must for parties, weeknight dinners, or any time you want comfort food with a fresh, modern twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple, letting each ingredient shine. You’ll notice that every element, from the bread to the fresh herbs, plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color for the ultimate Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread experience.
- Baguette or Italian loaf: A sturdy, crusty bread is essential—it holds up under all the toppings and gets perfectly crisp in the oven.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Butter creates that irresistible richness and helps the garlic flavor melt right into the bread.
- Fresh garlic (minced): Nothing compares to the punch of real garlic in both the butter and chimichurri.
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts into stretchy, gooey goodness that makes every slice irresistible.
- Parmesan cheese (shredded): Adds a salty, savory note and crisp, golden finish on top.
- Fresh parsley (finely chopped): This is the heart of the chimichurri, bringing a burst of color and freshness.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): For those who love it, cilantro brings a pop of bright, herbal flavor.
- Red wine vinegar: This gives the chimichurri its signature tang and balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Olive oil: Olive oil smooths out the chimichurri and helps it soak into the bread for that extra flavor punch.
- Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch adds a gentle heat that wakes up the whole dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out every flavor in the mix.
How to Make Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking, but also makes cleanup a breeze when the cheese gets bubbly and golden.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with your minced garlic. Take a minute to really blend them together; this ensures every bite of bread gets a hit of garlicky flavor. The softened butter will spread easily, so don’t rush this step!
Step 3: Whip Up the Chimichurri
Combine the chopped parsley, cilantro (if using), red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper in another bowl. Stir it all together until it’s bright green and super fragrant. This herby sauce is what sets Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread apart from any ordinary garlic bread.
Step 4: Assemble the Bread
Lay your sliced baguette or loaf halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Slather the garlic butter generously onto each half, making sure to go all the way to the edges. Next, spoon the chimichurri sauce evenly over the top, letting some of it soak into the bread for bursts of flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle a thick, even layer of shredded mozzarella over the chimichurri-covered bread, followed by a hearty dusting of Parmesan. Don’t be shy—this is where the “cheesy” in Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread really shines!
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown at the edges. For that ultra-crispy, golden top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes. Just keep a close eye—cheese can go from bubbling to burnt quickly!
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool for a few minutes after baking to set the cheese and avoid burning your fingers. Then, slice into generous pieces and serve immediately. Each bite bursts with herby, cheesy, garlicky bliss!
How to Serve Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread
Garnishes
Take your Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread to the next level with a final flourish. A handful of extra chopped parsley or cilantro scattered on top right before serving gives a fresh pop of color and flavor. If you like a little extra heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños adds a playful kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.
Side Dishes
This bread is a showstopper all on its own, but it also makes a fantastic side. Pair it with grilled meats, a hearty salad, or a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. It’s especially delicious alongside roasted chicken or a big plate of pasta, soaking up all those extra sauces and juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, you can slice Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread into bite-sized sticks and serve them as finger food with extra chimichurri on the side for dipping. Or lay out the whole loaf on a wooden board, sliced but still assembled, so guests can pull off their own cheesy piece—it’s casual, interactive, and oh-so tempting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence!), wrap the slices tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The bread will keep its flavor and texture for up to three days. It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread again and again.
Freezing
Want to prep ahead? Assemble the bread as directed, but stop before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When you’re ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You’ll have fresh Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread on demand for last-minute guests or cravings.
Reheating
To bring leftover slices back to life, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8 minutes, or until the cheese is melty again and the bread is warm and crisp. You can also use a toaster oven for small batches. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread without cilantro?
Absolutely! The cilantro is totally optional. Parsley is the main herb in chimichurri, so if you’re not a cilantro fan, just leave it out and you’ll still get a fresh, vibrant sauce.
What’s the best cheese to use if I don’t have mozzarella?
If mozzarella isn’t handy, feel free to use provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a mild cheddar. The goal is gooey, melty cheese, and any of these options will give you that dreamy texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Swap the butter for your favorite plant-based alternative, use vegan cheeses, and make sure your bread is dairy-free. The chimichurri itself is naturally vegan, so you’re most of the way there already.
Is Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread spicy?
By default, it has just a gentle warmth from the red pepper flakes, but you can control the heat level. Add more flakes or toss in some chopped jalapeños if you want to turn things up, or leave them out for a milder version.
Can I prepare Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can assemble the bread with the garlic butter, chimichurri, and cheese, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. It’s the perfect make-ahead appetizer that lets you enjoy the party while your kitchen fills with the most amazing aroma.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a way to make garlic bread unforgettable, Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread is it. Every bite is a symphony of cheesy, garlicky, herby flavors that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this crave-worthy twist on a classic favorite!
Print
Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion (Argentinian-American)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a vibrant fusion appetizer combining the rich, gooey goodness of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese with the fresh, tangy flavors of homemade chimichurri sauce. Perfectly toasted to golden brown with a hint of garlic butter, it’s an easy-to-make party favorite that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, soups, or salads.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 1 large baguette or Italian loaf, sliced lengthwise
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional), finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with the minced garlic. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended to create a flavorful garlic butter.
- Prepare Chimichurri Sauce: In another bowl, mix together the finely chopped fresh parsley, optional cilantro, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the vibrant ingredients into a zesty chimichurri sauce.
- Assemble the Bread: Place the sliced bread halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the garlic butter evenly over each bread half, ensuring all surfaces get a good coating.
- Add Chimichurri and Cheese: Spoon the chimichurri sauce evenly over the garlic buttered bread. Then, generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top to cover the bread fully.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown around the edges.
- Optional Broiling: For an extra crispy and golden top, broil the bread for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly. Slice into 8 pieces and serve warm, enjoying the perfect balance of cheesy richness and fresh chimichurri flavor.
Notes
- Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the chimichurri for extra heat if desired.
- Pairs perfectly with grilled meats, soups, or salads for a complete meal.
- To make it vegan, substitute butter and cheeses with plant-based alternatives and ensure the chimichurri ingredients are fresh and organic.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
