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Crispy Caprese Garlic Bread Recipe Easy Homemade Mozzarella Basil Toast

crispy caprese garlic bread - featured image

A quick and easy garlic bread recipe featuring crispy bread, melty fresh mozzarella, and bright fresh basil for a delicious Caprese twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1214 inches baguette or Italian bread, sliced diagonally
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed
  • 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thin
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed and torn
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling after baking)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with minced garlic and mix well.
  3. Slice the baguette or Italian bread diagonally into 1-inch thick slices.
  4. Generously spread the garlic butter mixture onto each bread slice.
  5. Place thin slices of fresh mozzarella on top of the buttered bread.
  6. Arrange the slices on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  7. Remove from oven and sprinkle torn fresh basil leaves over the top. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
  8. Optionally, drizzle balsamic glaze over the bread. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Notes

For extra crispy edges, broil the bread for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch closely to avoid burning. Let bread cool for a minute to let cheese set. Use dairy-free butter and mozzarella alternatives for a vegan version. Cherry tomatoes can be added before baking for a fresh burst. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic bread, caprese, mozzarella, basil, easy recipe, appetizer, homemade, crispy bread, vegetarian