Cheesy Pesto Garlic Bread

 

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf French baguette or Italian bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Bread: Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. Place the halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.

3. Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic. Spread the garlic butter evenly over both halves of the bread.

4. Add Pesto: Spread the basil pesto over the garlic butter layer.

5. Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto layer.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Broil (Optional): For a golden brown top, broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil. Slice and serve warm.