I’ve lived in St. Louis my whole life and love its food scene. Cunetto’s House of Pasta is a gem here, famous for its garlic cheese bread. This dish is a hit with both locals and tourists.
In this guide, we’ll explore Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe. You’ll learn about its history, the key ingredients, and how to make it at home. Get ready for the amazing smell of garlic, the cheese’s meltiness, and the crust’s crunch.
Searching for even more delicious Bread Recipes recipes? Try my “Bread Recipes“.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Cunetto’s Famous Garlic Cheese Bread
Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is a favorite in St. Louis. It’s known for its crusty Italian bread, garlicky butter, and melted cheese. This dish is a hit at Cunetto’s House of Pasta, a famous Italian restaurant in The Hill.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the history and popularity of Cunetto’s famous garlic cheese bread, a St. Louis staple.
- Learn the essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions for making this irresistible appetizer at home.
- Explore tips and techniques to achieve the perfect crusty texture for your homemade garlic bread.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is a must-try. It’s a big part of St. Louis’s Italian food scene. We’ll look into its history, recipe, and different versions in the next sections.
“Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread has been an adored of St. Louis, blending the city’s rich Italian heritage with a simple yet indulgent recipe that keeps customers coming back for more.”
The History Behind Cunetto’s Garlic Bread
Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread has a rich history in St. Louis. The Cunetto family started their Italian restaurant, Cunetto’s House of Pasta, in 1972. It’s located in The Hill, the city’s historic Italian neighborhood.
The garlic cheese bread quickly became a favorite. It’s known for its perfect mix of flavors and textures. People from everywhere came to try it.
Today, it’s a St. Louis tradition. The garlic, butter, and cheese in it make it a key part of the city’s Italian cuisine culture.
Cunetto’s has been a big part of St. Louis’s food scene for over 50 years. Their garlic bread is a big part of their history and the city’s food legacy. It’s loved by many as a St. Louis Italian cuisine icon.
“Cunetto’s garlic bread is a true taste of St. Louis. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting the city.”
The Cunetto family’s commitment to quality and traditional Italian recipes is clear. Their garlic cheese bread is a favorite in the Cunetto’s garlic bread origins and the St. Louis community. It’s enjoyed as an appetizer or side, always satisfying.
Essential Ingredients for Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
To make Cunetto’s garlic bread at home, you need a few key ingredients. A fresh, crusty Italian bread loaf is the base. It’s where the rich toppings come to life. The dish shines with fresh, minced garlic and high-quality unsalted butter.
The cheese topping is a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. This blend offers a great balance of melt and flavor. These ingredients are what make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread famous in St. Louis.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Italian bread loaf (baguette or loaf) | 1 loaf |
| Unsalted butter | 1 stick (1/2 cup) |
| Fresh garlic, minced | 4-5 cloves |
| Fresh parsley, finely chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Dried or fresh oregano | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1 cup |
These ingredients are the key to making Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home. The mix of savory garlic, melted cheese, and a crisp bread crust is a true St. Louis treat.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread
Making the perfect homemade Italian garlic bread at home is simple. Just follow this guide to make the famous Cunetto’s garlic bread in your kitchen.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Spread
Begin by softening a stick of unsalted butter at room temperature. Mix in 3-4 minced garlic cloves until the garlic is well mixed. This garlic butter spread is the base for your step-by-step garlic bread recipe.
Choosing and Slicing the Bread
Choose a crusty Italian or French loaf, like a baguette or ciabatta. Cut the bread in half horizontally. This makes two halves for more garlic butter.
Applying the Garlic Butter
Spread the garlic butter blend over both parts of the bread. Make sure to cover every part for the best flavor in your how to make Cunetto’s garlic bread.
Adding the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered bread. These cheeses will melt and create a tasty, cheesy topping.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes. The cheese should melt and the bread should get golden and crispy. Watch closely to avoid burning your homemade Italian garlic bread.
With this guide, you can make Cunetto’s famous garlic cheese bread at home. Enjoy this delicious Italian treat whenever you want.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Crusty Texture
Making Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home requires a crispy texture. To get that perfect crust and soft inside, follow these tips. Choose an Italian or French loaf and cut it into 1-inch slices. This sturdy bread will hold the garlic butter and cheese well.
Don’t hold back on the garlic butter. Spread it all over the bread slices. This will help the bread get that golden-brown crust. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8-14 minutes, depending on the bread. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Use a sturdy Italian or French loaf, sliced 1-inch thick
- Apply the garlic butter mixture generously over the bread
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8-14 minutes, depending on bread type
- Finish with 1-2 minutes beneath the broiler for additional crunch
To get that Cunetto’s crunch, broil the bread for 1-2 minutes. This will caramelize the butter and cheese, making the outside crispy. By following these baking tips for crusty garlic bread, you can make your own crispy garlic bread texture just like Cunetto’s.
Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is a St. Louis-style classic. It mixes homemade Italian garlic bread with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Follow this guide to make Cunetto’s House of Pasta’s signature taste at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 4-5 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
- 1 French baguette or Italian loaf, sliced in half horizontally
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Spread: Mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and dried oregano in a bowl. Blend well.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the French baguette or Italian loaf in half horizontally. This makes two long, thin slices.
- Apply the Garlic Butter: Spread the garlic butter mixture on the cut side of both bread slices.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter-coated bread slices.
- Bake to Flawlessness: Preheat your stove to 375°F (190°C). Place the bread slices on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese melts. For crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes more.
Serve Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread fresh from the oven. Let it cool a bit before slicing. This homemade Italian garlic bread recipe will be a family favorite!
Variations on Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
The classic Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe is loved by many. But, there’s always room to try new flavors and textures. You can add herbs, spices, or use whole grain bread to make it your own.
Herb-Infused Version
Mix garlic butter with fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme for a fragrant twist. These herbs add a fresh, aromatic flavor to the garlic bread. It’s a delightful garlic bread recipe variation that will wow your guests.
Spicy Kick Option
Want a little heat? Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter. This Cunetto’s-inspired garlic bread has a spicy kick. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of fire in their food.
Whole Grain Alternative
Try using whole grain bread instead of Italian loaf for a healthier version. The nutty flavors of whole grain bread go well with the garlic butter. It’s a homemade garlic cheese bread that’s both tasty and nutritious.
These garlic bread recipe variations let you make the classic Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread your own. You can explore new flavors and textures while keeping the original’s charm.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Your Garlic Cheese Bread
Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is great with many meals. It’s perfect with classic Italian dishes like Fettuccine Alfredo or Spaghetti Bolognese. It also goes well with warm soups like minestrone or tomato bisque, making it easy to dip.
For a lighter choice, it’s great with fresh garden salads. It also pairs well with grilled meats, roasted veggies, and Italian starters like bruschetta or antipasto platter. Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread will make any meal better and please garlic bread lovers.
Cunetto’s Garlic Bread Pairings
- Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo
- Hearty Spaghetti Bolognese
- Comforting Minestrone Soup
- Rich Tomato Bisque
- Fresh Garden Salads
- Grilled Meats
- Roasted Vegetables
- Italian Appetizers (Bruschetta, Antipasto Platter)
Whatever you serve with Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread, it will make for a tasty and fulfilling meal. Your taste buds will want more.
“Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is the ultimate companion to any Italian-inspired meal. Its rich, garlicky flavor and crisp texture elevate the entire dining experience.”
Conclusion
Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe is a treasured St. Louis culinary convention that you can make at domestic. This guide has covered the history, main ingredients, and how to make this famous homemade Italian garlic bread. By using the tips and techniques shared, you can enjoy the same delicious taste that Cunetto’s garlic bread is known for.
This homemade version of Cunetto’s famous Cunetto’s garlic bread recipe is perfect for any occasion. It can be an appetizer, a side dish, or the main event. With this recipe, you can bring a piece of St. Louis’ Italian heritage into your kitchen.
As you explore more recipes, remember the secrets to making perfect Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread. Keep the history in mind, follow the instructions carefully, and enjoy the tasty outcome of this beloved St. Louis culinary tradition.
FAQ
What is Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread?
Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is a favorite from Cunetto’s House of Pasta in St. Louis, Missouri. It’s a crusty Italian bread topped with garlic butter and melted cheese.
What is the history behind Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread?
The Cunetto family started their Italian restaurant in 1972 on The Hill. This area is known for its Italian heritage. The garlic cheese bread quickly became famous for its delicious taste and texture.
What are the key ingredients needed to make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home?
You’ll need fresh Italian bread, unsalted butter, garlic, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients are the heart of Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread.
How do you make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home?
First, make the garlic butter. Then, cut the bread in half and spread the garlic butter on it. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Prepare until the bread is brilliant and the cheese is melted.
What tips can help achieve the perfect crusty texture for Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread?
Use crusty Italian or French bread and cut it thick. Apply plenty of garlic butter. Bake at the right temperature and time. Use the broiler for a crispy finish.
Are there any variations on the classic Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe?
Yes, you can try different versions. Add fresh herbs for an herb-infused version. For spice, use red pepper flakes or jalapeños. You can also utilize entire-grain bread as a more advantageous option.
What dishes combine well with Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread?
It goes great with Italian dishes like pasta, soup, and salad. It also pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and other Italian appetizers and sides.