The smell of Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe brings back cherished memories of St. Louis’s iconic The Hill neighborhood. Growing up, my family’s weekends were incomplete without a visit to Cunetto’s House of Pasta. This timeless appetizer has delighted taste buds for over 50 years, becoming a beloved tradition in many households.
This dish is a true St. Louis Italian treasure. It’s crispy bread, melted cheese, and garlic butter all in one. Our recipe lets you make this comfort food at home, whether you’re experienced or just starting out.
Picture pulling apart a slice of golden, cheesy bread. The mozzarella stretches, and you hear that perfect crunch. That’s what Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is all about. It’s a beloved tradition in Missouri’s food scene.
Table of Contents
The Legacy of St. Louis’s Iconic Italian Restaurant
Cunetto’s House of Pasta is a gem in The Hill neighborhood. It’s a top spot for Italian food in St. Louis. Opened in 1972, it’s a family-run place that has become a big part of the city’s food scene.
A Rich Culinary Journey
Cunetto’s started in a lively time for St. Louis food. It quickly made a name for itself with:
- Authentic family recipes passed down through generations
- Commitment to traditional Italian-American cuisine
- Warm, welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of classic Italian dining
Pioneering Local Food Culture
Cunetto’s was a light in a changing food world. It has inspired many local chefs and home cooks. It shows what real Italian cooking is all about.
“We’re not just serving food; we’re preserving a culinary tradition.” – Cunetto Family
Five Decades of Culinary Excellence
Cunetto’s has been around for over 50 years. It has kept its true spirit alive, even as food trends have changed. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a cherished part of St. Louis’s Italian-American culture.
| Milestone | Year |
|---|---|
| Restaurant Founding | 1972 |
| Local Culinary Awards | Multiple |
| Community Impact | Ongoing |
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Italian garlic cheese bread
Starting with the right ingredients is key to making perfect garlic cheese bread. Choose a crusty Italian or French loaf. This will turn your dish into something truly special.
Fresh ingredients are essential for great garlic cheese bread. Fresh garlic is vital for its rich, bold flavor. Use freshly minced garlic cloves for the best taste.
Essential Ingredients Breakdown
- Crusty Italian or French bread
- High-quality unsalted butter
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Cheese blend for garlic bread
Choosing the right cheese blend is important. Mix mozzarella and Parmesan for the best taste. Mozzarella makes it gooey, while Parmesan adds depth.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mozzarella | 1 cup | Melting and creamy texture |
| Parmesan | 1/4 cup | Nutty, savory flavor |
| Fresh Garlic | 4 cloves | Intense flavor base |
“The secret to great garlic bread is using the freshest ingredients possible.” – Cunetto’s House of Pasta
Pro tip: Always choose freshly grated cheese. It tastes better and melts better in your garlic cheese bread.
Understanding the Perfect Bread Selection-Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread
Choosing the right bread is key to a great garlic cheese bread. It’s what makes your dish stand out. It will impress everyone who tries it.
Ideal Bread Options for Garlic Cheese Bread
- French baguette: Crisp exterior, soft interior
- Ciabatta for garlic bread: Airy texture, rustic appearance
- Traditional Italian bread selection: Dense, hearty loaves
Quality Indicators to Consider
When picking your bread, look for these signs:
- Golden-brown crust with a crisp exterior
- Chewy, airy interior that absorbs garlic butter
- Slightly tangy aroma
- Fresh appearance with no signs of staleness
Bread Storage Recommendations
Keep your bread fresh by storing it right. Store bread at room temperature for 1-2 days or freeze for longer. Don’t refrigerate, as it can dry out faster.
“The right bread is the foundation of exceptional garlic cheese bread” – Culinary Experts
Don’t use pre-sliced or soft sandwich bread. Your garlic cheese bread needs a high-quality base to shine!
Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
Making the perfect garlic cheese bread needs focus and top-notch ingredients. The garlic butter base is key, turning a simple loaf into a tasty side dish that wows your guests.
Now, let’s look at what you’ll need for this amazing garlic cheese bread:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4-5 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 1 loaf of Italian or French bread
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
The cheese blend is vital for that perfect melty texture. Mix mozzarella and Parmesan for a rich, tasty topping that will delight your taste buds.
“A great garlic cheese bread is all about balancing flavors and achieving the right baking temperature.” – Cunetto’s Chef
Getting the baking temperature right is key for a golden-brown crust and melted cheese. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, follow these easy steps:
- Slice the bread in half lengthwise
- Spread the garlic butter mixture generously
- Sprinkle the cheese blend evenly
- Bake for 10-12 minutes
- Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness
Pro tip: Watch the bread closely during broiling to prevent burning!
The result is a crispy, cheesy, garlic-infused bread that’s the highlight of any meal. Slice it up and serve warm for the ultimate comfort food.
Mastering the Garlic Butter Mixture-Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread
Making homemade cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe butter is an art that makes your garlic cheese bread special. The right method turns simple ingredients into a tasty spread. It will make your taste buds happy.
Butter softening is key for a smooth spread. Let’s explore the secrets of making the best garlic butter for your bread.
Proper Garlic Preparation
Fresh garlic is the start of a great spread. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Select 6-8 fresh garlic cloves
- Peel and mince the garlic finely
- Use a sharp knife or garlic press for best results
- Aim for a consistent, fine mince to distribute flavor evenly
Butter Temperature Guidelines
Softening butter is important for homemade garlic butter. Here’s a quick guide:
| Butter State | Temperature | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Butter | Refrigerator Temperature | 30-45 minutes at room temp |
| Softened Butter | 65-70°F | 15-20 minutes at room temp |
| Melted Butter | Above 90°F | Not recommended |
Herb Integration Tips
Enhance your garlic butter with these herbs:
- Fresh parsley for brightness
- Dried oregano for depth
- Thyme for earthy undertones
- Italian seasoning blend for complexity
“The secret to great garlic butter is balancing flavors and using the freshest ingredients possible.” – Culinary Expert
Make sure to mix your herbs and garlic well into the butter. Your spread can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This makes meal prep easy.
Professional Baking Techniques and Temperature Control-Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread
Mastering cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe baking tips is all about precision and knowing the right oven temperature. Making the perfect garlic cheese bread is more than just mixing ingredients. It’s an art that needs careful technique.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for even heat
- Use a pizza stone or baking steel for even heating
- Brush bread with quality olive oil for a golden-brown exterior
Getting a crispy crust depends on knowing your oven well. Ovens can vary in temperature, so use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
| Bread Type | Baking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| French Bread | 8-10 minutes | 425°F |
| Italian Bread | 10-12 minutes | 425°F |
| Artisan Loaf | 12-14 minutes | 425°F |
“The difference between good and great garlic bread is in the details of temperature and technique.” – Cunetto’s Head Chef
Pro tip for cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe baking tips: Use the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end to get that crispy crust. Watch carefully to prevent burning! The last minute can turn your garlic bread from good to amazing.
Remember, the oven temperature forcunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe is key. A few degrees can change a soggy mess into a crisp, golden-brown treat that will wow everyone.
Creative Variations and Cheese Combinations-Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread
Unlock your culinary creativity with exciting cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe variations. These changes turn the classic recipe into something extraordinary. Every home cook can experiment with unique flavor profiles that elevate the traditional garlic bread experience.
Alternative Cheese Blends
Discover exciting cheese combinations that can revolutionize your garlic bread. Some delicious options include:
- Creamy feta for a tangy Mediterranean twist
- Smoky gouda for rich, complex flavors
- Sharp cheddar for an intense cheese experience
- Blue cheese for bold, adventurous palates
Spicy Garlic Bread Adaptations
Spice lovers can kick up their garlic bread with heat-inducing ingredients. Try these spicy garlic bread techniques:
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the butter mixture
- Dice fresh jalapeños for a fresh, fiery kick
- Add chipotle powder for a smoky heat sensation
Herb-Infused Options
Transform your herb-infused garlic bread by incorporating fresh herbs into the butter base. Recommended herbs include:
- Fresh basil for a classic Italian touch
- Rosemary for an earthy, aromatic flavor
- Thyme for subtle, sophisticated undertones
Pro tip: Always use fresh herbs for the most vibrant and authentic flavor profile!
Your garlic bread journey doesn’t end here. Experiment with different breads like multigrain for added nutrition and texture. Create personalized versions that will impress family and friends.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions-Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread
Turn your Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread into a masterpiece with the right Italian wine pairings and dishes. The right choices can make this classic appetizer truly special.
Wine Pairing Recommendations
Choose the perfect Italian wine to go with your garlic cheese bread, based on your main course. The right wine can make your meal even better.
| Wine Type | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
|---|---|---|
| Pinot Grigio | Light, crisp | Seafood dishes |
| Sangiovese | Medium-bodied | Tomato-based pasta |
| Chianti | Bold, robust | Red meat entrees |
Recommended Serving Ideas
- Serve on a rustic wooden board for an authentic Italian look
- Cut bread just before serving to keep it crispy
- Use as an appetizer or side dish for Italian meals
Dish Pairing Suggestions
Pair your garlic bread with these classic Italian dishes to make the most of it:
- Fettuccine Alfredo
- Spaghetti Bolognese
- Minestrone soup
- Tomato bisque
“Great food is about creating memories, and the right pairing can turn a simple meal into an unforgettable experience.” – Chef Mario Batali
Try out these garlic bread serving ideas to make a memorable meal that honors Italian cuisine.
Storage and Reheating Methods-Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread
Keeping your homemade garlic bread fresh is key. Whether it’s Cunetto’s recipe or leftovers, the right storage and reheating can make all the difference. This way, you can enjoy every bite to the fullest.
Proper Storage Guidelines
Storing garlic bread right is essential. Here are some tips to keep it fresh:
- Let the garlic bread cool down completely before storing
- Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap
- Keep it at room temperature for 1-2 days
- Refrigerate for up to 3-5 days for longer freshness
- Freeze it for up to 3 months for long-term storage
Reheating Instructions for Perfect Texture-Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread
Reheating garlic bread needs a gentle touch. This way, you keep its crispy outside and soft inside. The oven is your best tool for this.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Place the bread on a baking sheet or rack
- Heat for 8-10 minutes until it’s warm and crispy
- Avoid using the microwave, as it can make bread soggy
Maintaining Flavor and Freshness-Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread
“The secret to preserving garlic bread freshness is in the careful storage and gentle reheating,” says a local St. Louis chef.
When storing and reheating, remember to focus on temperature and wrapping. Keep the bread away from sunlight and moisture to avoid staleness. By following these tips, you can enjoy the taste of Cunetto’s garlic bread even days later.
Conclusion
By making homemade Italian garlic bread, you bring St. Louis cuisine right to your home. This journey connects you to a long-standing culinary tradition. It’s a tradition that has brought joy to food lovers for many years.
Learning the right techniques and using the right ingredients can turn a simple bread into a special meal. Your kitchen becomes a place where you can enjoy the flavors that have made Cunetto’s House of Pasta famous in St. Louis. This has been true for over 50 years.
Serving this garlic cheese bread as an appetizer or with pasta is more than just cooking. It’s about keeping alive a piece of St. Louis’s Italian food heritage. Each bite is a story of tradition, flavor, and community.
Your effort to make this classic dish keeps St. Louis’s culinary legacy alive. It’s done one delicious slice of garlic cheese bread at a time.
FAQ
1. Is garlic salt or garlic powder better for garlic bread?
It depends on your preference! Garlic powder provides a milder and more natural garlic flavor, allowing you to control the saltiness of your bread by adding your desired amount of salt separately.
2. How do you make Bobby Flay garlic bread?
Bobby Flay’s garlic bread recipe typically involves a delicious combination of softened butter, fresh minced garlic, parsley, and sometimes a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. He spreads this flavorful mixture over sliced baguettes or Italian bread and bakes it until golden brown.
3. Where did cheesy garlic bread originate?
Cheesy garlic bread has its roots in Italian-American cuisine. While traditional garlic bread is inspired by bruschetta from Italy, adding cheese to garlic bread became popular in the United States.
4. What cheese goes well with garlic?
Mozzarella is a classic choice for garlic bread because it melts beautifully and creates that perfect stretchy, cheesy texture. Parmesan adds a nutty and salty flavor, while cheddar or provolone can provide a richer and sharper taste.
5. What is the best combination for garlic bread?
The best garlic bread combination includes fresh crusty bread, a mixture of softened butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt. For cheesy garlic bread, add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top.
Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe – Easy Homemade
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Cheese Bread features a crispy crust and a gooey, cheesy center infused with aromatic garlic and Italian herbs. It’s the perfect accompaniment to pasta dishes, soups, or as a standalone appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of fresh Italian or French bread
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 1/2 cups whole-milk mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well blended.
- Slice Bread: Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
- Apply Garlic Butter: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the buttered bread halves.
- Bake: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Optional – Broil: For a crispier top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice into pieces. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Bread Selection: Using a fresh Italian or French loaf provides the ideal texture, offering a crispy crust with a soft interior.
- Cheese Variations: For added flavor, consider mixing in other cheeses such as cheddar or provolone.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added to the garlic butter mixture for extra aroma and taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 320
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 12g
For a taste of Southern tradition, try Cornbread and Milk: A Classic Southern Comfort Food—simple, nostalgic, and utterly satisfying.
