Sourdough Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe

Discover the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and herbaceous flavors in this Sourdough Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe. It’s a simple yet utterly delicious twist on classic garlic bread, using rustic sourdough French bread slathered with vibrant pesto, sprinkled with garlic powder, and topped with a generous layer of melted parmesan. Whether you’re looking for a stunning appetizer or a tasty side to elevate your dinner, this recipe is easy to whip up and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Sourdough Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe plays a key role, making the final dish bursting with flavor and lovely texture. From the tangy sourdough loaf to the fresh, herb-packed pesto, every element is essential.

• Sourdough French bread: Choose a crusty loaf with a chewy crumb to hold up to the toppings perfectly.
• Pesto (1/2 cup): Use fresh, vibrant pesto for that bright basil flavor that cuts through the cheese.
• Grated parmesan (1 cup): Adds nutty richness and melts beautifully to create a golden crust.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp, salt-free): Provides a mellow garlicky kick that complements without overpowering.

How to Make Sourdough Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Bread

Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, slice your sourdough French bread loaf horizontally into two long halves. This gives you the perfect canvas: a crispy crust below and a soft, absorbent crumb above ready to soak in the pesto.

Step 2: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place both halves on a parchment-lined sheet pan crust-side down so the soft crumb side is facing up. This setup lets the toppings melt and meld beautifully without sogginess creeping into the crust.

Step 3: Spread the Pesto

Generously spread 1/4 cup of pesto on each half of the bread. This luscious layer will infuse every bite with fresh herbal vibrancy and a touch of savory depth.

Step 4: Add the Garlic Powder

Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder evenly over each pesto-coated piece. Choosing salt-free garlic powder ensures your bread won’t become overly salty, letting the garlic flavor shine gently.

Step 5: Top with Parmesan

Finally, dust each side with 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese. This will create that addictive golden crust, adding a rich, slightly tangy kick and satisfying meltiness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. The cheese should bubble and melt, self-browning slightly, while the pesto warms and the sourdough crust crisps up beautifully.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once out of the oven, slice your bread into 1-2 inch pieces. The aroma alone will have everyone eager to dig in, and the perfect combination of crisp edges, melty cheese, and flavorful pesto garlic highlight every bite.

How to Serve Sourdough Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes really take this Sourdough Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe up a level. Sprinkle on chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and herbal freshness, or add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to boost richness. A few red pepper flakes can also add a welcome subtle heat that complements the garlic and cheese perfectly.

Side Dishes

This garlic bread shines as a companion to a wide variety of meals. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light lunch, or as a cozy match for tomato soup or minestrone. It also works wonderfully with pasta dishes, especially those with tomato or creamy sauces, where the bread can soak up every last bit.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or casual get-together, turn this recipe into individual crostini by cutting smaller slices and toasting them with the toppings right on the grill or oven rack. Alternatively, stack slices with layers of fresh mozzarella and cherry tomatoes for a vibrant appetizer variation that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sourdough Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the bread from becoming too soggy, it’s best to store it separately from any fresh garnishes or additional oils.

Freezing

If you want to keep this tasty bread for longer, freeze it whole or in slices inside an airtight bag or container. It freezes well for up to one month, making it handy for future quick snacks or side dishes.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-8 minutes, uncovered. This will re-crisp the crust and re-melt the cheese without drying out the flavorful pesto and garlicky topping.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto adds an extra layer of freshness and flavor. Feel free to use your favorite basil pesto recipe or even try variations like sun-dried tomato pesto for a creative twist.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

If parmesan isn’t on hand, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheeses work beautifully as substitutes, providing a similar salty, nutty kick that melts well over the bread.

Is garlic powder necessary, or can I use fresh garlic?

While garlic powder offers a mild, even garlicky flavor, finely minced fresh garlic can be used if you prefer a sharper garlic bite. Just be careful not to overwhelm the bread—spread it thinly or mix with the pesto.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap out the parmesan for a vegan cheese alternative and ensure your pesto is made without dairy or with vegan-friendly ingredients. The rest of the recipe stays the same and still delivers amazing flavor.

What’s the best sourdough bread to use?

A rustic, crusty sourdough French bread with an airy crumb works best for this recipe. It absorbs the pesto and cheese nicely while holding its shape and crisping up in the oven.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Sourdough Pesto Garlic Bread Recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and fresh, easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve guests. The way the pesto, garlic, and parmesan come together on chewy, crunchy sourdough is pure magic. Trust me, once you make it, this bread will become your new go-to comfort food craving.

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