Description
Tomato Basil Garlic Bread combines crisp Italian bread with a flavorful spread of olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Layered with juicy tomatoes, melty mozzarella, and a touch of Parmesan, this easy-to-make appetizer is topped with fresh basil for a vibrant finish. Baked until golden and bubbly, it brings together sharp, creamy, and herbaceous flavors, making it an outstanding crowd-pleaser for gatherings or as a savory side.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of Italian bread or baguette, fresh, preferably
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for topping)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the Italian bread or baguette horizontally into halves or into individual slices, according to your preference.
- Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or directly on a baking tray.
- Mix the olive oil or melted butter with the minced garlic and Italian seasoning in a small bowl.
- Brush the garlic mixture evenly over the top of the bread slices.
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes evenly over the garlic-coated bread.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese if using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is toasted.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving.
Notes
For substitutions, use whole wheat or gluten-free bread, vegan cheese for dairy-free, or dried basil if fresh is unavailable. Make ahead by prepping the garlic oil and slicing tomatoes; assemble and bake just before serving for best texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to crisp up. If bread gets soggy, toast slices before topping; use paper towels to pat tomatoes dry to prevent excess moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 18mg