Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe: A Taste of St. Louis Legend

Let’s face it, everyone loves garlic cheese bread! “Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe” It’s the perfect appetizer, a great side, or even a satisfying meal. But have you ever tasted the garlic cheese bread, the kind that makes you say, “Wow!”? We’re talking about the legendary garlic cheese bread from Cunetto House of Pasta in St. Louis. If you’ve been to St. Louis, you know the magic. If not, get ready because we’re bringing that magic to your kitchen! This isn’t just any recipe; it’s an experience. We’ll uncover the secrets and techniques that make Cunetto’s version iconic. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll understand the hype. Forget the disappointing imitations, this is the real deal. So, grab your apron, and let’s start baking!

What Makes Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe So Special?

What makes this garlic cheese bread so special? It’s more than just garlic and cheese; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. The crispy bread gives way to a molten, cheesy interior, highlighted by fresh garlic. It’s a masterpiece of simple ingredients done right. Think of it like a well-composed song where each element, from the bread to the garlic preparation, creates harmony. It’s not about complexity; it’s about understanding how each ingredient contributes. It’s a perfect balance of crispy and soft, savory and rich, aromatic and satisfying. This dish evokes memories, sparks conversations, and leaves you wanting more. The magic is in the details, which we’re about to explore. It’s about understanding the “why” behind each step, not just following a recipe.

Unveiling the Secrets: The Ingredients You’ll Need

Now, let’s talk ingredients! You’ll be surprised at how few components go into this flavor powerhouse. But as with all great recipes, the quality of your ingredients is key. Don’t settle for second best – you’re making something truly special here.

The Bread: Choosing Your Foundation

Let’s start with the star of the show: the bread! For the best results, you want a good quality loaf of Italian or French bread. It shouldn’t be too airy; a slightly denser loaf will hold up better to the toppings and keep the bread from getting soggy. Think of it as the foundation of a house; you need it to be sturdy and reliable. Avoid pre-sliced breads, as they tend to dry out faster. You want to be in control of your bread-slicing destiny! Aim for a loaf that’s about 12-16 inches long.

The Garlic: Freshness is Key!

Garlic is, obviously, non-negotiable. And please, do yourself a favor and use fresh garlic! Jarred minced garlic just doesn’t cut it here. The flavor is so much more vibrant and pungent when you mince your own. We’re not talking about a subtle hint of garlic here; we want a garlicky punch! About 4-6 cloves should do the trick, depending on their size and your garlic preference (I always go for the higher end, personally!).

The Cheese: A Melty, Dreamy Blend

Ah, the cheese! Cunetto’s uses a blend, and that’s what we’ll do here to achieve the perfect melt and flavor. We’re going for a mix of Mozzarella (for that melty pull) and Provolone (for that tangy bite). Use about 8 ounces of Mozzarella and 4 ounces of Provolone, both shredded. Pre-shredded cheese is fine, but shredding it yourself will result in a meltier and less clumpy cheese situation.

The Butter: Don’t Skimp!

Butter is another crucial element in this recipe. It helps to distribute the garlic flavor and creates a rich, decadent base for the cheese. We’re going with good ol’ unsalted butter, about 8 tablespoons. Make sure it’s softened, but not melted, so it’s easy to mix with the garlic. This isn’t the time to cut corners. The butter is your flavor delivery system!

The Herbs: Aromatic Enhancements

To kick things up a notch, we’re adding a touch of herbs to our garlic butter. Fresh parsley is a must for its bright, fresh flavor. Finely chop about 2 tablespoons. If you’re feeling adventurous, a little dried oregano can add a subtle, warm note (about 1/2 teaspoon).

Here’s the ingredients all in one spot:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Italian or French Bread	1 loaf (12-16 inches)	Not pre-sliced
Fresh Garlic	4-6 cloves	Minced finely
Mozzarella Cheese	8 ounces	Shredded
Provolone Cheese	4 ounces	Shredded
Unsalted Butter	8 tablespoons	Softened
Fresh Parsley	2 tablespoons	Finely chopped
Dried Oregano	1/2 teaspoon	Optional
Salt	To Taste	Optional

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe

Alright, now for the fun part! Let’s get into the actual making of this heavenly bread. Don’t worry; it’s much easier than you might think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be transported to garlic cheese bread heaven in no time.

Prep Work: Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe

Before you even think about touching your ingredients, make sure you have everything you need within reach. Nothing is worse than being halfway through a recipe and realizing you’re missing something. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. It helps to prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Slice your bread lengthwise into two halves. Don’t slice it into individual pieces yet; you want to bake the halves together first for even cooking. Then, mince your garlic and chop your parsley. Have your softened butter ready to go! It’s like preparing your workstation before an important project, you know?

Making the Garlic Butter: The Heart of the Matter

This is where the magic truly begins. In a medium bowl, combine your softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and optional oregano. Mix it all together until everything is evenly distributed. I use a fork to mash everything together and make sure the garlic is properly incorporated into the butter. This garlic butter is like the secret sauce of this whole operation, so be sure to mix well.

Assembling the Bread: Layering for Flavor

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Grab your sliced bread and spread the garlic butter evenly over each half, making sure to get all the way to the edges. Don’t be shy! We want every inch of that bread covered in garlicky goodness. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and provolone evenly over the garlic butter. Again, be generous! We want that cheesy goodness in every bite. Think of it as layering love on top of flavor. You know, the base is already delicious but this takes it to the next level.

Baking to Perfection: Achieving Golden Brown Goodness

Carefully place your prepared bread halves onto the lined baking sheet. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, as ovens can vary. You want the cheese to be beautifully melted and slightly browned, but not burned. It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a minute or two, then carefully slice it into individual pieces. The aroma alone will make your mouth water!

Common Problems: Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe

Even the best cooks run into problems sometimes. If your Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread isn’t turning out quite as expected, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with some common issues and their solutions:

Soggy Bread: The Enemy of Crunch

If your bread ends up soggy instead of crispy, it usually means there’s too much moisture. This could be because the bread was too fresh, the butter wasn’t softened properly, or the cheese had too much moisture in it. A few things you can do to prevent soggy bread are: lightly toast the bread before adding the toppings, use a good quality bread that isn’t too airy, and don’t overload it with butter or cheese. Remember, it’s about balance. A light toasting for a few minutes in the oven will give it more structure and prevent sogginess.

Burnt Garlic: Avoid the Bitter Truth

Burnt garlic is not a good look (or taste!). It can ruin the whole dish by adding a bitter flavor to it. If you’re finding that your garlic is burning, it could be because your oven is too hot or the garlic is minced too finely. Try using a slightly lower oven temperature, or you can mince your garlic a bit larger. Keep a close eye on the bread as it bakes and if you see the garlic browning too quickly, move the pan to a lower oven rack. I can’t stress this enough: burnt garlic is NOT our friend!

Uneven Melting: Cheese Distribution Woes

Unevenly melted cheese is also an issue to avoid. This typically means the cheese wasn’t spread evenly over the bread or the cheese itself is cold. Try to distribute the cheese in an even layer, making sure to reach the edges. Sometimes pre-shredded cheese contains a coating that prevents melting, so try to shred your own. It takes a little longer, but it really makes a difference.

Lack of Flavor: Where’s the Oomph?

If your garlic cheese bread feels like it’s lacking in the flavor department, there could be a few reasons. Firstly, the garlic might not have been fresh, so make sure to always use fresh garlic! Secondly, you might need to add more garlic, butter, cheese, and/or herbs. We want that oomph! And don’t be shy with your seasonings! Salt can make a huge difference, so sprinkle a little salt over the top before baking. It enhances the flavor of everything, like a little magic wand. ✨

Tips for the Best Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe!

Alright, you’ve got the basics down. But like any culinary adventure, there are always a few extra tips and tricks that can take your garlic cheese bread to the next level. Here are my personal favorites:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: As we discussed earlier, the quality of your ingredients really matters! It’s like the foundation of a great painting; you need to start with good materials.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leave enough space between your bread slices on the baking sheet for even heat circulation. If they’re too close together, they won’t crisp up properly.
• Adjust to Taste: This is your garlic cheese bread, so don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to your liking. Love garlic? Add more! Want it cheesier? Go for it!
• Fresh is Best: Try to use freshly shredded cheese and not pre shredded, use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs if you can!
• Serve Immediately: Garlic cheese bread is best served hot and fresh out of the oven. The moment that cheese is molten and stretchy – that’s the sweet spot!

Serving Suggestions: Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe

While Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is amazing on its own, it’s also a fantastic side for many meals. Pair it with hearty dishes like Terra Massoud or a flavorful Boulders Enchilada. It’s a great addition to a light Quiche or alongside a savory Silverside Beef. It’s perfect as an appetizer at a dinner party or a crowd-pleasing side for a quick meal. Even a warm bowl of Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup with Rice benefits from this garlic bread. Honestly, there’s no wrong time to enjoy it. Some friends love it as a snack with marinara sauce for dipping! It’s that good and versatile!

Variations and Twists: Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe

Once you’ve mastered the classic Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread, you might want to experiment with some variations. Here are some ideas to get your creative culinary juices flowing:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your garlic butter for a little heat.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses, such as fontina, asiago, or even a little parmesan for a nutty flavor.
• Herbs Galore: Try adding other herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme.
• Caramelized Onions: Add some caramelized onions to the garlic butter for a sweet and savory twist.
• Pesto Swirl: Swirl a tablespoon or two of basil pesto into the garlic butter for a vibrant and herby upgrade.

“Cooking is at once child’s play and adult joy. And cooking done with care is an act of love.” – Craig Claiborne

Storing and Reheating: Preserving the Flavor

If, by some miracle, you end up with leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can pop the bread back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or use the toaster oven. Be aware that it may not be as crispy as the first time around, but it will still be delicious. Another option for reheating is in the microwave but I highly suggest that you try to reheat in an oven or toaster oven.

Conclusion: A Slice of St. Louis in Every Bite

And there you have it! A step-by-step guide to making the legendary Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread right in your own kitchen. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary journey, a taste of history, and a whole lot of deliciousness. I hope that you now have the courage to try this recipe because it’s seriously amazing! I promise you once you taste this bread you’ll be hooked. From the perfect balance of garlic and butter, to the gooey cheese and crispy bread, it’s an experience that’s sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that oven, and get ready to savor the flavor of St. Louis in every bite! You’ve earned it! This is more than just garlic cheese bread; it’s a culinary experience that you’ll want to repeat over and over again. Enjoy!