Are you ready to take your snacking game to the next level? Say hello to Monkey Brains Pull Apart Bread, a cheesy, buttery delight that's perfect for sharing—or not! This American classic is not only a feast for the eyes but also a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. With its gooey cheese and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to be the star of your next gathering. Whether you're planning a cozy family dinner or a lively party, this recipe will have everyone reaching for more. Don't miss out on the fun—let's dive into how to create this irresistible treat!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your bread bakes evenly and achieves a nice golden color.
- Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent the bread from sticking.
- Take the loaf of bread and place it on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the bread into 1-inch cubes, making sure not to cut all the way through the bottom of the loaf. You want the base to remain intact so the bread stays together.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley. Stir well to ensure that the herbs and spices are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Using a pastry brush or a spoon, generously drizzle the butter mixture between the slices of bread, making sure to coat the bread cubes thoroughly. Be sure to get the mixture into all the crevices for maximum flavor.
- After applying the butter mixture, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the loaf, ensuring that it fills in the gaps between the bread cubes.
- Wrap the entire loaf in aluminum foil, creating a sealed package to help the cheese melt and the bread to stay moist while baking.
- Place the wrapped loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together.
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the loaf and return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. This will help the top of the bread become golden and crispy.
- Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to handle and allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Serve the Monkey Brains Pull Apart Bread warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy pulling apart the cheesy, buttery pieces with friends and family!
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best results, opt for a soft, crusty loaf like sourdough or Italian bread. These types hold up well when pulled apart and soak up the butter mixture beautifully.
- Get Creative with Cheese: While shredded cheese is a must, feel free to mix it up! Try adding a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Don’t Rush the Butter: Make sure to drizzle the garlic and herb butter mixture generously between the bread slices. This step is crucial for infusing flavor throughout the loaf.
- Keep It Sealed: Wrapping the loaf in aluminum foil is key to achieving that melty, gooey texture. It helps trap steam and moisture, so don’t skip this step!
- Serve Immediately: This bread is best enjoyed warm right out of the oven. Serve it with extra parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair with Dips: Consider serving your Monkey Brains Pull Apart Bread with a side of marinara or ranch dressing for dipping to elevate the experience even further.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the bread ahead of time by assembling it and wrapping it in foil. Just pop it in the oven when your guests arrive for a warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 55mg
