Description
Beach Bread is a Florida-inspired cheesy garlic bread loaded with fresh tomatoes, melty cheese, and a hint of ranch or blue cheese dressing. It’s a perfect appetizer or side dish for seafood, pasta, or a casual beachside meal. This easy, flavorful recipe is ideal for entertaining or enjoying as a simple comfort food.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 loaf French bread (or Italian bread), sliced in half lengthwise
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing, optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
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Prepare the bread:
- Slice the loaf in half lengthwise and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Mix softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and oregano in a small bowl. Spread evenly over both halves of the bread.
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Assemble the toppings:
- Spread a thin layer of ranch or blue cheese dressing over the buttered bread (if using).
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and crumbled blue cheese evenly across the bread.
- Top with diced tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Bake the bread:
- Place the bread in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden, crispy top, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.
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Garnish and serve:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Let it cool slightly, then slice into pieces and serve warm.
Notes
- Want extra crunch? Use a toasted baguette instead of soft French bread.
- Add protein: Top with cooked bacon bits or grilled shrimp for a heartier version.
- Make it spicy: Drizzle with hot sauce or add more red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg