Ever wondered why Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is a famous recipe in St. Louis? This recipe is not just tasty. It also holds a special place in the city’s culture, loved by locals and visitors alike for over 40 years. We’ll share the secrets of Cunetto’s, making it a great choice for family meals or special events.
Key Takeaways
- Cunetto’s Recipe for Garlic Cheese Bread features a blend of Mozzarella and Provolone cheeses for a delightful flavor.
- The use of freshly minced garlic and unsalted butter enhances its rich and vibrant taste.
- A proper Italian or French loaf is vital for achieving the perfect texture.
- Over 50 years of tradition back Cunetto’s House of Pasta as a St. Louis mainstay.
- Various twists on the recipe cater to different tastes, including spicy and herb-infused options.
Introduction to Cunetto’s Famous Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
Cunetto’s famous garlic cheese bread is a beloved recipe of St. Louis cuisine. It’s loved for its delicious flavors and simple charm. Both locals and visitors enjoy it, making it a comfort food icon in the area.
What Makes It a St. Louis Classic?
The garlic cheese bread from Cunetto’s House of Pasta is more than a side dish. It’s a cultural symbol. Its strong garlic smell and creamy taste are a must-try for anyone in St. Louis. The mix of a crunchy outside and a soft, cheesy inside makes it unforgettable.
A Brief History of Cunetto’s House of Pasta
Started in 1972 in The Hill’s Italian neighborhood, Cunetto’s quickly became famous. It’s known for its Italian traditions and the garlic cheese bread recipe passed down through generations. This bread quickly became a favorite, showing the restaurant’s dedication to tasty Italian dishes. Learn more about the history if Cnetto’s House of Pasta in this article.
What Makes Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe So Special?
Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe is loved for its amazing flavors and perfect texture. Every bite is a mix of creamy cheese and fresh garlic. It’s a treat for your taste buds. If you’re looking to try another delicious bread recipe, don’t miss our White Lily Cornbread Recipe.
Flavor Combinations that Delight
The flavors in Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread are unique. It uses 4-6 cloves of garlic and half a cup of unsalted butter. The dish also has 1 cup of Parmesan and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
You can try different cheeses like Gruyère or sharp Cheddar. This adds more flavors to the dish.
The Perfect Texture Balance
The bread’s texture is also special. It uses a crusty French or Italian loaf. Baked at 375°F, it gets a crunchy outside and a soft inside.
The cheeses melt, making it gooey inside. This mix of textures makes eating it a joy. Adding fresh herbs like basil and parsley adds flavor and color.
Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is special because of its flavors and texture. Each part works together to make a memorable dish.
Unveiling the Secrets: The Ingredients You’ll Need
Making the perfect Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe from Cunetto’s is easy. It starts with choosing the right ingredients. Knowing what you need is key to getting that special taste from Cunetto’s recipe. Let’s look at the main ingredients for this tasty dish.
The Essential Building Blocks
- Italian or French Bread: A good quality loaf, about 12 to 16 inches long, is the base.
- Fresh Garlic: Use 4 to 6 cloves of minced fresh garlic for a strong flavor.
- Cheese Blend: Mix 8 ounces of shredded Mozzarella with 4 ounces of shredded Provolone for the perfect melt.
- Unsalted Butter: Use 8 tablespoons of softened butter, not melted, for the right texture.
- Fresh Parsley: Add about 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley for a fresh taste.
- Dried Oregano: Include 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano for a warm flavor.
Quality Matters: Choosing the Right Ingredients
Quality ingredients are key to a great cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe. Choose fresh items for the best flavor. Pick a fresh loaf with a crusty outside for texture. Use finely minced garlic to avoid bitterness.
Lightly toasting the bread before adding toppings helps avoid sogginess. Balance the butter and cheese to avoid a greasy taste.
Here are some tips for making it right:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Soggy Bread | Lightly toast the bread before adding toppings. |
| Bitter Garlic | Minimize garlic size or reduce oven temperature. |
| Uneven Melting | Shred cheese and spread it evenly over the bread. |
Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe: The Step-by-Step Guide
Making the perfect garlic cheese bread is a journey of several key steps. Each step is designed to make this dish a true delight. Follow these steps carefully for a delicious outcome. You’ll learn how to make garlic butter and bake garlic bread, making your meal even better.
Prep Work: Setting Up
Begin by collecting all the ingredients you need. Then, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature helps your bread bake evenly, creating a wonderful crust.
Crafting the Garlic Butter
While the oven warms up, make the garlic butter. In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined. Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you like. This garlic butter will be the flavorful base of your garlic cheese bread.
Assembling and Baking the Bread
Split the loaf in half lengthwise, revealing the soft inside. Spread the garlic butter on each half, making sure to cover evenly. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for that special flavor.
Put the bread on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. For a golden crust, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Let the garlic cheese bread cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with your favorite Italian dishes! Try it again and enjoy every bite of this comforting classic.
| Step | Action | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare garlic butter | 5 minutes |
| 2 | Bake the bread | 10-12 minutes |
| 3 | Broil for crust | 1-2 minutes |
| 4 | Cool before serving | 2 minutes |
Common Problems and Solutions for Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
Making the perfect cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe is fun, but it can have its challenges. Fixing garlic bread problems can make your baking better. Here are some common issues and solutions to help you get a tasty result.
Soggy Bread: Preventing Moisture Issues
Soggy bread is a common problem with garlic cheese bread. To fix this, use a sturdy bread like French or Italian loaf. Before adding garlic butter, slice the bread and toast it lightly to remove moisture. This helps your garlic bread stay firm and prevents it from getting soggy.
Burnt Garlic: Avoiding Bitter Flavors
It’s important to avoid burnt garlic for a good flavor. Make your garlic butter at a low temperature to prevent it from browning too fast. Watch the baking time closely, as garlic cooks quickly in a hot oven. Taking it out of the oven on time keeps its flavor without adding bitterness.
Uneven Melting: Cheese Placement Tips
Uneven melting can ruin your garlic cheese bread’s look. Make sure to spread the cheese evenly over the bread. Using different cheeses can improve both flavor and melting. Proper cheese placement leads to a beautifully melted cheese that looks great.
Tips for the Best Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
To enjoy the Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe of Cunetto’s, knowing how to store it is key. The right storage keeps the bread fresh and tasty. Serving it in creative ways can also make your meal special and impress your guests.
Storing and Reheating Tips
After you’ve had your garlic cheese bread, store leftovers right to keep them tasty. Here are some tips for storing garlic bread:
- Wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent air exposure.
- For up to 1-2 days, keep the wrapped garlic bread at room temperature.
- For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days.
- If you want to keep it even longer, freeze the garlic bread for up to 2 months, handling it carefully to avoid freezer burn.
When reheating, follow these tips:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for optimal reheating.
- Heat for 5-10 minutes, ensuring the bread becomes warm but not too crispy. Adjust based on the type of bread used, as different types may require varying baking times for crispiness.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Serving your garlic cheese bread can be a fun and creative experience. Here are some enticing serving suggestions:
- Pair it with creamy Fettuccine Alfredo for a classic Italian experience.
- Serve alongside hearty Spaghetti Bolognese to complement the flavors beautifully.
- Use it as a satisfying appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Consider placing the bread on a wood board for an appealing presentation.
With these tips for storing, reheating, and serving, you can enjoy Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread at its best, no matter when you decide to indulge!
Variations and Twists on Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
Trying out different garlic bread recipes can make your meals more exciting. You can add new flavors to Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread. This lets you create a special version that’s all your own.
Introducing Spice: Adding Heat
Want something spicy? Try making spicy garlic bread. Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to your garlic butter. This adds a warm, exciting taste that goes well with the cheesy goodness.
This twist not only pleases your taste buds but also adds a new flavor dimension. The spiciness blends well with the buttery garlic and melted mozzarella. It makes for a memorable garlic bread experience.
Herb-Infused Garlic Butter
Herb-infused garlic butter is another great twist. Mix in fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into your garlic butter. This adds a fresh, aromatic flavor to your garlic cheese bread.
Each bite becomes a burst of fresh herbs, balancing the strong garlic taste. It stays true to Cunetto’s traditional flavors while adding a new twist.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Taste Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Garlic Cheese Bread | Garlic, Butter, Mozzarella, Parmesan | Rich and Savory |
| Spicy Garlic Bread | Garlic, Butter, Mozzarella, Crushed Red Pepper | Spicy and Creamy |
| Herb-Infused Garlic Bread | Garlic, Butter, Mozzarella, Fresh Herbs | Aromatic and Flavorful |
By adding spicy garlic bread and herb-infused garlic butter to your recipes, you’ll make meals that impress. Don’t be afraid to try these variations. They can make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread your own special dish!
Conclusion
Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is a beloved recipe in St. Louis. It delights both locals and visitors with its taste and memories. This homemade garlic bread is more than just food; it’s a symbol of comfort and family.
With our simple recipe, you can make this Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home. It brings a piece of history into your kitchen. Baking it creates memories and satisfaction, making it a special dish.
Every bite of Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is a celebration of heritage and love for food. So, get ready to make it in your kitchen. It’s a way to bring a taste of St. Louis into your life.
FAQ
What bread should I use for Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe?
Choose crusty Italian or French bread for the best taste and texture. Look for fresh loaves with a sturdy crust. This will help hold the garlic butter and cheese well.
How can I prevent sogginess when making garlic cheese bread?
To keep the bread from getting soggy, spread the garlic butter evenly. Don’t over-soak the bread. Also, use just the right amount of butter to maintain the right texture.
What is the best way to store leftover garlic cheese bread?
Wrap leftovers in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it. Always reheat in the oven for the crispiest results.
Can I make variations of cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe?
Yes! Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist. Or, try garlic butter infused with herbs for a unique flavor while staying true to tradition.
How do I achieve a perfect melt on the cheese?
For even cheese melting, mix mozzarella and provolone. Spread it evenly on the bread. Bake until the cheese is bubbly but not burnt for the best melt.
Is there a tip for avoiding burnt garlic while baking?
To avoid burnt garlic, mix it into your garlic butter. Let it soften before spreading it on the bread. This way, the garlic flavors the butter without burning.
What makes Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread a crowd-pleaser?
The mix of fresh garlic, melted cheese, and crispy, buttery crust is irresistible. It’s a hit as an appetizer or side dish for any event.
