Cheesy Bread Braid Recipe

French bread: A loaf of French bread sliced lengthwise forms the base of this recipe, providing a crusty exterior and soft interior.

Mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy layer.

Parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.

Butter: Melted butter helps to bind the garlic and seasoning to the bread, adding richness.

Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the bread with a robust, savory flavor.

Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a fragrant, savory touch.

Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the finished bread.

When brushing the melted butter mixture onto the french bread, make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. This ensures that every bite is infused with the garlic and italian seasoning flavors. Additionally, when twisting the slices to create the braided effect, be gentle to avoid tearing the bread. This technique not only enhances the presentation but also allows the cheese to melt evenly and seep into the crevices, creating a more flavorful and visually appealing dish.

• french bread - Substitute with ciabatta: Ciabatta has a similar texture and can hold the cheesy filling well.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar melts well and provides a slightly sharper flavor.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar texture and a slightly saltier taste.

• melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a rich flavor and is a healthier fat option.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile and is easier to distribute evenly.

• italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de provence: Herbes de Provence offers a similar blend of herbs with a slightly different aromatic profile.

• chopped fresh parsley - Substitute with chopped fresh basil: Fresh basil adds a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor that complements the cheese.

• Allow the cheesy bread braid to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from making the bread soggy.
• Wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain its freshness.
• Place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag to protect it from air and moisture.
• Store the bread at room temperature if you plan to consume it within 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
• To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil, then place it in a resealable freezer bag. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the bag with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the bread in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty and bubbly.
• For a quicker option, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, though this may result in a softer texture.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, reheat the bread under the broiler for a few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cheesy bread braid in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warmed through. For a crispier texture, unwrap the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of heating.

• Microwave Method: Place a slice of the cheesy bread braid on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 30-45 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warm. Be cautious not to overheat, as the bread can become chewy.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cheesy bread braid directly on the toaster oven rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warmed through. This method helps maintain a crispy exterior.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place a slice of the cheesy bread braid in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warm. This method gives a nice, crispy bottom to the bread.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the cheesy bread braid in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warmed through. This method ensures a crispy texture without drying out the bread.

• Oven: Used to bake the bread at the specified temperature until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Baking sheet: Holds the bread while it bakes in the oven, ensuring even cooking.

• Parchment paper: Lines the baking sheet to prevent the bread from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.

• Pastry brush: Brushes the butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the French bread.

• Knife: Cuts the loaf into 1-inch slices without cutting all the way through.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the bread.

• Measuring cups: Measures the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Measures the Italian seasoning and chopped fresh parsley accurately.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Mince the garlic and chop the parsley ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella and parmesan to save time on grating.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt the butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the other ingredients to save waiting time.

Use a serrated knife: A serrated knife makes slicing the bread easier and faster.