Preparing this dish takes you on a journey through Cunetto’s House of Pasta’s history. This St. Louis favorite has been serving Italian dishes for over 50 years. You’ll learn about the key ingredients and how to make it at home. Let’s dive into the world of st louis garlic cheese bread, where every bite is a taste of tradition and love.
The Legacy of Cunetto’s House of Pasta in St. Louis
Cunetto’s House of Pasta has been a favorite in St. Louis’s Italian neighborhood, The Hill, for over 50 years. It opened in 1974 and has been serving authentic Italian dishes. These include the famous italian garlic cheese bread.
The restaurant style garlic bread is a must-try. It’s made with fresh garlic and unsalted butter. The cheese topping is a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan, creating a perfect flavor.
To make the garlic cheese bread, day-old bread works best. It absorbs the garlic butter well without getting soggy. Use whole-milk mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste.
Enjoying this bread with other Italian dishes like spaghetti marinara or fettuccine Alfredo makes the experience even better. It’s a key part of the italian garlic cheese bread tradition in St. Louis.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
To make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread right, you need the right stuff. Start with a crusty Italian or French bread. This is the base of your dish. Then, you’ll need fresh garlic, lots of it for a strong taste.
Don’t forget unsalted butter, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. These are key to the recipe.
How much of each ingredient matters. You’ll need 1 stick (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter. Also, 4-5 cloves of fresh garlic, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Together, they make a tasty garlic cheese italian bread everyone will love.
When picking ingredients for your cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe, go for quality. Fresh garlic is better than pre-minced or powdered. Also, choose top-notch mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
Here are some key ingredients to keep in mind:
- 1 whole Italian bread loaf
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4-5 cloves fresh garlic
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious and authentic cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe. It’s sure to be a hit.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make delicious st louis garlic cheese bread, you’ll need some key tools. You’ll need a baking sheet, oven, and cheese grater. The baking sheet holds the bread while it bakes. A cheese grater is needed to grate the cheese for the top.
Optional tools like a stand mixer and pastry brush can also be helpful. A stand mixer makes mixing the garlic butter spread easier. A pastry brush helps spread the garlic butter evenly on the bread.
You’ll also need basic kitchen utensils like a knife, cutting board, and measuring cups. With these tools, you’re ready to make tasty st louis garlic cheese bread. It’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Choosing the Perfect Bread Base
Choosing the right bread is key for restaurant style garlic bread. You need a crusty Italian or French bread. This bread should be 12-16 inches long for the best results.
A dense texture and crispy crust are important. They balance the moisture from garlic butter and cheese.
Italian loaves, French baguettes, and sourdough are great options. Each has its own flavor and texture. Italian loaves are soft, while French baguettes are crispy. Sourdough adds a tangy flavor that goes well with garlic and cheese.
- Texture: Look for a bread with a dense texture that can hold up to the garlic butter and cheese.
- Flavor: Consider the flavor profile of the bread and how it will complement the garlic and cheese.
- Size: Choose a bread that is large enough to feed your crowd, but not so large that it becomes unwieldy.
By picking the right bread, you can make a delicious garlic bread. It will be a hit with everyone.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Butter Spread
To make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread, you need a delicious garlic butter spread. This spread is key to the dish’s flavor. Use fresh garlic and unsalted butter for the best taste.
For the garlic, use 6-8 cloves. It might seem a lot, but it’s needed for the perfect flavor. Mix minced garlic with 1/2 cup of softened butter until smooth.
Butter Selection Tips
Choosing the right butter is important. Use unsalted butter to control the salt. Opt for high-quality, European-style butter for a richer flavor.
Garlic Preparation Methods
There are a few ways to prepare garlic. You can mince it or use a microplane to grate it. This releases enzymes for a deeper flavor.
Seasoning Blend Guide
Adding a seasoning blend can enhance the spread’s flavor. Try dried oregano, parsley, and basil. Mix these herbs into the spread and adjust to taste. With these tips, you’ll make a delicious garlic butter spread for Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread or other Italian dishes.
Step-by-Step Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
To make delicious st louis garlic cheese bread, you need a few things. You’ll need Italian bread, garlic cloves, unsalted butter, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for the best restaurant style garlic bread.
Here’s how to make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make the garlic butter by mincing 4 cloves of garlic and mixing it with 1/2 cup of unsalted butter.
- Spread the garlic butter all over the bread, covering it evenly.
- Put 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the garlic butter.
- Bake the bread in the oven for 10-15 minutes. It’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This recipe makes a delicious st louis garlic cheese bread. It’s great with pasta, salads, or as a snack. The rich flavor and crispy texture make it a favorite.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Italian bread | 1 loaf |
| Garlic cloves | 4-6 |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup |
Cheese Selection and Application Techniques
Choosing the right cheese is key to making great garlic cheese italian bread. You want cheese that melts well and adds a rich flavor. Mozzarella and Parmesan are top picks because they melt smoothly and taste great with garlic.
Other cheeses like provolone and gouda can also enhance your bread. Try mixing different cheeses to find your favorite. Remember, the right cheese can make all the difference in the flavor and texture of your cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe.
Best Cheese Varieties
- Mozzarella: a classic choice for garlic cheese italian bread, mozzarella melts well and adds a creamy texture
- Parmesan: a sharp, salty cheese that adds depth and complexity to your cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe
- Provolone: a smooth, mellow cheese that pairs well with garlic and herbs
- Gouda: a rich, creamy cheese that adds a luxurious touch to your garlic cheese italian bread
Proper Melting Methods
| Cheese Variety | Melting Point | Recommended Melting Method |
|---|---|---|
| Mozzarella | 105-115°F | Broiler or cheese melter |
| Parmesan | 115-125°F | Cheese melter or oven |
| Provolone | 100-110°F | Broiler or cheese melter |
| Gouda | 105-115°F | Cheese melter or oven |
Follow these tips and use the right cheese to make perfect cunetto’s garlic cheese bread. Don’t be afraid to try different cheeses and melting methods to find what works best for you.
Baking Tips for Restaurant-Style Results
To get that perfect restaurant-style italian garlic cheese bread, focus on baking. A crispy crust and a flavorful inside come from baking at the right temperature and time. Baking at 375°F (190°C) helps get that golden-brown crust.
Here are some tips for baking your garlic bread like a pro:
- Use fresh garlic cloves, with a recommended amount ranging from 4 to 6, depending on your preference.
- Apply a generous amount of unsalted butter, about half a cup, to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Combine grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese for a rich and creamy flavor.
For even baking, put the bread in the oven’s center. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Adding chopped parsley or other fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or oregano can add extra flavor.
By following these tips and using quality ingredients, you’ll make a delicious italian garlic cheese bread. With practice, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with your restaurant-style garlic cheese bread.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
There are many ways to serve cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe. It’s great as an appetizer or side dish. It goes well with many Italian dishes. Try it with spaghetti marinara, fettuccine Alfredo, or lasagna for a classic taste.
For a twist, pair it with soups like tomato basil or creamy mushroom. Or, go for a lighter option with a green salad or Caesar salad. The goal is to balance the bread’s flavors with the dish it’s served with.
Traditional Italian Accompaniments
Here are some traditional Italian dishes that go well with cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe:
- Spaghetti marinara
- Fettuccine Alfredo
- Lasagna
- Tomato basil soup
- Creamy mushroom soup
Wine Pairing Recommendations
Choosing the right wine can make your meal better. For st louis garlic cheese bread, try a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red wine like Chianti. These wines are crisp and refreshing, cutting through the cheese and garlic.
By using these serving suggestions and pairings, you can make a delicious meal. It will highlight the flavors of cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe and st louis garlic cheese bread.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
To keep your garlic cheese italian bread fresh, it’s important to store and reheat it right. You can keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. Or, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freezing is a good option. Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or foil and put it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread can last up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature or bake in the oven.
Proper Storage Methods
Keep your garlic cheese italian bread away from sunlight and moisture. Storing it in a bread box or paper bag can also help keep it fresh.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and bake for 10-15 minutes. It should be warm and toasted.
You can also reheat it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. This will warm it up quickly.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your garlic cheese italian bread for longer. It will stay delicious and flavorful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making italian garlic cheese bread, it’s key to steer clear of common errors. Overmixing the dough can make the bread dense and tough. To prevent this, mix the ingredients just until they form a shaggy mass. Then, let the dough rest and rise.
Another mistake is using low-quality ingredients. Old or stale garlic and low-moisture cheese can ruin your cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe. Fresh and high-quality ingredients are essential for a flavorful and aromatic bread. Also, avoid overbaking, as it can dry out the bread and lose its crispy crust.
- Not letting the dough rise long enough, resulting in a flat and dense bread
- Not using enough garlic or cheese, leading to a bland flavor
- Overworking the dough during shaping, causing it to become tough and dense
By avoiding these mistakes, your cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe will be delicious and authentic. It will have a crispy crust and a flavorful interior. Always use high-quality ingredients and follow the recipe carefully for the best results.
Conclusion
Cunetto’s House of Pasta has been a part of St. Louis for over 50 years. Its garlic cheese bread is a big reason why it’s so loved. Now, you can make this st louis garlic cheese bread at home.
To make it, you’ll need 1 stick of unsalted butter, 4-5 cloves of minced garlic, and 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients will help you create a delicious restaurant style garlic bread.
The secret to a crispy garlic cheese bread is baking it right. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. Then, broil for 1-2 minutes. You can also try adding herbs or spices to make it your own.
This garlic cheese bread is great with pasta, soups, or as a snack. It’s easy to make and pairs well with many dishes. So, why not try making it and enjoy the taste of Italy at home?
