Perfect choice! This Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is a flavorful twist on classic garlic bread — combining juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, roasted garlic, and melted cheese on crispy bread. It’s perfect as a side, appetizer, or even a light meal.
Here’s the detailed recipe:
Table of Contents
hide
Tomato Basil Garlic Bread Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 large baguette or Italian loaf (sliced in half lengthwise)
- 3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced (or roasted for a milder taste)
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced (seeds removed for less sogginess)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or mix with provolone/cheddar)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ½ tsp dried oregano (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Bread
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the baguette/Italian loaf in half lengthwise and place it on a baking sheet, cut side up.
Step 2 – Garlic Oil Base
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil with minced garlic.
- Brush or spoon the garlic oil evenly over the cut side of the bread.
Step 3 – Tomato & Cheese Layer
- Evenly distribute the diced tomatoes over the bread.
- Season tomatoes lightly with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously on top.
Step 4 – Bake
- Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For extra crispiness, switch to broil mode for 1–2 minutes at the end (keep an eye on it to avoid burning).
Step 5 – Finish with Basil
- Remove bread from the oven.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the hot, cheesy bread.
- Optionally, drizzle with a little more olive oil or balsamic glaze.
Serving Suggestions
- Slice into thick pieces and serve warm as an appetizer.
- Pair with soups like tomato basil soup or minestrone.
- Serve alongside pasta dishes or roasted chicken.
Tips & Variations
- Caprese Style: Add slices of fresh mozzarella instead of shredded and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Extra Flavor: Add caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Healthier Twist: Use whole-grain bread and reduce cheese slightly.
✨ Result: Crispy golden bread with a garlicky base, juicy tomatoes, melted cheese, and a fresh basil finish — a Mediterranean-inspired treat that everyone will love!
Would you like me to also give you a no-bake skillet version (great if you don’t want to use the oven)?