This Bloomin’ Onion Parmesan Bread is a fun and cheesy treat! It’s a round loaf of bread that’s cut into petals and stuffed with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese—yum!
Baking it fills the kitchen with a mouthwatering smell that makes everyone eager to dig in. I love to serve it warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Round Bread Loaf: A crusty loaf like sourdough or boule works best for this recipe. It holds up well when cut and stuffed. If you can’t find those, Italian or French bread also makes a great substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the best flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder—about a teaspoon for every clove. I personally find the fresh garlic adds an unbeatable taste!
Unsalted Butter: Unsalted is ideal so you can control the saltiness. You could use olive oil instead for a healthier twist or to give it a unique flavor.
Cheeses: While mozzarella is super stretchy and delicious, feel free to mix in some cheddar or gouda. For a stronger flavor, add more Parmesan. I love the combination of different cheeses!
How Do I Cut the Bread Without Messing It Up?
Cutting the bread is key to getting that beautiful “bloom.” Follow these steps for best results:
- Use a serrated bread knife—it helps make clean cuts without smashing the bread.
- Make diagonal slices about 1 inch apart, cutting down to about 1 inch from the bottom. This keeps the loaf intact.
- Rotate the bread and repeat the cutting in the opposite direction to create diamond shapes.
Take your time with this step; it can be tricky, but a slow approach will yield the best results. Enjoy the process and the delicious smell that fills your kitchen!
Bloomin Onion Parmesan Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 1 large round crusty bread loaf (such as sourdough or boule)
For the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnishing:
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bloomin’ Onion Parmesan Bread takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 20-25 minutes of baking time, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up for any gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This will help make cleanup easier!
2. Cut the Bread:
Take your crusty bread loaf and, using a serrated knife, make cuts about 1 inch apart across the bread. Cut down almost to the bottom but be careful not to slice all the way through the loaf. Now rotate the bread and make perpendicular cuts to form a grid that looks like little petals.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This yummy mixture is what makes the bread so flavorful!
4. Add the Garlic Butter:
Gently pull apart the slices of the bread and use a spoon or brush to generously spoon the garlic butter mixture in between every cut. Make sure to get it deep inside—this is where all the flavor comes from!
5. Stuff with Cheese:
Next, you’ll want to stuff the cuts with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Pack it in tightly to ensure every bite is cheesy. Use your fingers to press it in if needed.
6. Bake the Bread:
Place the stuffed bread onto the lined baking sheet and pop it into the oven to bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll want it to be golden on the outside and the cheese deliciously melted.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped chives and parsley over the top for a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Bloomin’ Onion Parmesan Bread warm, pulling apart the cheesy “petals” to enjoy. It’s perfect as an appetizer or snack, and you can even serve it with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is a classic choice for its stretchiness, you can mix and match with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure the cheese melts well!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (if that’s possible!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and cheese is melty again.
Can I Make This Bread Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bread by cutting and stuffing it, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
What Can I Serve with Bloomin Onion Parmesan Bread?
This cheesy bread pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping or a warm cheese dip. It also complements a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy it at parties or gatherings; it’s sure to be a hit!
