Description
These Basil Pesto Bread Rounds are a quick and easy appetizer featuring crispy French bread topped with flavorful basil pesto, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a tasty side, they combine fresh herb goodness with cheesy indulgence in a convenient bite-sized form.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread or baguette, sliced into rounds
- 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Slice the Bread: Slice the French bread or baguette into rounds about 1/2 inch thick and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each bread round with olive oil; this helps the bread crisp nicely during baking.
- Spread Basil Pesto: Spread a thin, even layer of basil pesto over each bread round to cover the surface completely, giving a fresh, herby base.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over each pesto-covered round, then add a light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and richness.
- Optional Garlic Powder: If desired, lightly sprinkle the rounds with garlic powder to add a subtle garlicky kick.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, with crisp, toasted bread edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves if desired, then serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Using day-old bread can help achieve a crispier texture.
- Feel free to use homemade pesto for a fresher flavor.
- These rounds are best served warm but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes.
- You can substitute mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses if preferred.
- For a vegan version, use vegan cheese and a pesto without cheese.
