This Bloomin Onion Parmesan Bread is a fun and delicious twist on your favorite bread! It’s soft inside and covered with a cheesy, crunchy topping that makes it hard to resist.
Every bite is packed with flavor, and it’s perfect for sharing—just watch those hands reach for it! I love serving it warm with a side of marinara for dipping. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A round loaf of sourdough or crusty bread works best for this recipe. If you can’t find sourdough, any hearty bread will do, like ciabatta or a hearty French loaf. Just ensure it has a good crust to hold everything together!
Cheese: Mozzarella provides that stretchy cheese goodness, while Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor. If you want a bit of spice, try pepper jack instead of mozzarella. You can also mix in some cheddar for a different taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth to the bread, but if you’re out, you can use garlic powder (about 1/2 teaspoon) as a substitute.
How Do I Cut the Bread Without Making a Mess?
Cutting the bread can be tricky, but it’s key to getting all that cheesy goodness inside! Here’s how to do it:
- Use a sharp serrated knife for clean cuts.
- Make vertical cuts about 1 inch apart, stopping about 1 inch from the bottom to keep the base intact.
- Turn the loaf 90 degrees and repeat, forming a grid pattern.
- Handle the bread gently while cutting to avoid squishing it!
Taking your time with the cuts will help the bread stay whole while allowing the flavors to soak in beautifully. Happy baking!
Bloomin Onion Parmesan Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large round loaf of sourdough or crusty bread (about 12 inches in diameter)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bloomin Onion Parmesan Bread will take about 10 minutes to prepare and then 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy—easy and quick for a delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly. While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Take your large round loaf and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully make vertical cuts into the bread about 1 inch apart, cutting down to about 1 inch from the bottom. Be careful not to cut all the way through; this helps keep the loaf intact while still allowing for cheesy goodness inside!
3. Create the Checkerboard Cut:
Now, turn the bread 90 degrees and make similar vertical cuts to form a grid or checkerboard pattern. Again, remember not to cut through the bottom crust. This will create lovely little sections for the cheese and garlic butter to soak in.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine all the flavors. This mixture is key for adding that delicious garlicky taste!
5. Butter Up the Bread:
Gently open up the loaf’s slices by pulling them apart slightly. Use a spoon or a brush to drizzle or brush the garlic butter mixture evenly throughout all the cuts. Make sure to get it into every nook and cranny for maximum flavor!
6. Stuff with Cheese:
Now it’s time for the cheese! Stuff the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese into every opening in the bread, pressing some cheese well down into the cuts so that it becomes embedded inside. The more cheese, the better!
7. Add Fresh Herbs:
Lightly sprinkle the chopped parsley and chives over the top of the bread for that fresh flavor and beautiful color. It makes the bread look vibrant and appetizing!
8. Bake the Bread:
Place your prepared bread onto the lined baking sheet and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the oven—be cautious; it will be hot. Serve immediately while warm and gooey. Pull apart pieces with your hands, and enjoy this cheesy, delicious treat with friends or family!
This recipe yields a delightful savory pull-apart bread with a cheesy center and a buttery, garlicky Parmesan crust, making it perfect for sharing at parties or as a wonderful appetizer. Enjoy your Bloomin Onion Parmesan Bread! 🍞✨
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan create a delicious combination, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist. Just make sure they melt well!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No problem! You can use garlic powder as a substitute. Use about 1/2 teaspoon for the equivalent flavor, but adjust to your taste. Just remember that fresh garlic gives a more robust flavor!
Can I Make This Bread Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bread up to the baking step in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and bake as directed—adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Bloomin Onion Parmesan Bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and cheesy again!