Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

The Bread Foundation

• 1 large loaf French Bread or Ciabatta (approx. 14–16 inches, sliced horizontally into two long halves)

The Garlic Butter Spread

• ½ cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter , softened to room temperature
• 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 6 cloves Garlic , finely minced or grated
• ¼ cup Fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano (Parmesan) , finely grated
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Italian Parsley , finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano
• ½ teaspoon Sea Salt (or Kosher salt)
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for subtle heat)

The Fresh Tomato & Basil Topping

• 3 large Roma Tomatoes (or vine-ripened tomatoes), seeded and diced
• ½ cup Fresh Basil Leaves , sliced into thin ribbons (chiffonade)
• 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Balsamic Vinegar
• Freshly ground Black Pepper , to taste

The Cheese Blanket & Garnish

• 1 ½ cups Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cheese , shredded (or sliced fresh mozzarella)
• Balsamic Glaze (for drizzling before serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Bread Base

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Slice the bread loaf horizontally end-to-end to create two wide top and bottom halves. Place both halves cut-side-up on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 2: Whip the Garlic Butter Compound

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dried oregano, sea salt, and red pepper flakes.
2. Mix vigorously with a spatula or fork until the mixture is uniform, creamy, and spreadable.
3. Spread the garlic compound evenly over the cut surfaces of both bread halves, ensuring you push the butter all the way to the outer crust edges to prevent burning.

Step 3: Mix the Tomato Basil Bruschetta Topping

1. Slice the tomatoes, gently scraping out the excess watery seeds to keep your bread crisp. Dice the tomato flesh into ¼-inch pieces.
2. In a small bowl, toss the diced tomatoes, half of the fresh basil ribbons, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of black pepper. Set aside at room temperature to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: The Initial Bake & Cheese Layering

1. Place the buttered bread halves in the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5 to 7 minutes , until the butter is completely melted into the crumb and the edges are lightly golden.
2. Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Evenly scatter the shredded mozzarella cheese across both halves.
3. Spoon the tomato mixture evenly over the cheese layer using a slotted spoon to avoid transferring excess liquid.

Step 5: Final Bake & Broil for Crispiness

1. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 6 to 8 minutes , or until the mozzarella is fully melted and bubbling.
2. Turn the oven setting to High Broil (500°F / 260°C) . Broil for 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese bubbles develop golden-brown spots and the crust reaches peak crunchiness. Watch constantly during this minute—broilers move fast!

Step 6: Garnish, Slice, and Serve

1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the cheese to settle.
2. Scatter the remaining fresh basil ribbons over the melted top.
3. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze for a sweet, tangy finish.
4. Slice diagonally into 2-inch slices using a serrated bread knife. Serve immediately while warm!

Nutrition

Calories: 310 kcal · Protein: 11 g · Fat: 18 g · Carbohydrates: 26 g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 8 g · Fiber: 2 g · Sugar: 3 g · Sodium: 540 mg