Beach Bread

Short description

Beach Bread is a delicious open-faced appetizer that combines the rich flavors of blue cheese dressing, juicy diced tomatoes, and gooey melted mozzarella on a crisp, buttery slice of rustic bread. Ideal for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or an elegant starter, this easy-to-make dish captures the essence of relaxed summer dining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the perfect blend of flavors and textures: the crispiness of toasted bread, the creamy tang of blue cheese dressing, the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, and the richness of melted mozzarella. Beach Bread is versatile enough to serve at casual gatherings or sophisticated parties, and it comes together quickly with minimal ingredients. It is a comforting, crowd-pleasing option that tastes like summer on a plate.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (12-14 oz) French baguette or thick rustic bread slices

• 6 tablespoons butter, softened

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/3 cup blue cheese dressing

• 1/2 cup diced tomato

• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Split the baguette in half lengthwise, or use thick slices of rustic bread.

Assemble the Topping

Spread 3 tablespoons of softened butter on each bread half or slice. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder. Spread the blue cheese dressing over the buttered bread.

Add the Toppings

Distribute the diced tomatoes evenly over the bread. Cover generously with grated mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake

Place the bread on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are golden and crisp.

Serve

Slice into smaller portions and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving

Variations

• Different cheeses: Replace mozzarella with Monterey Jack, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.

• Vegetarian option: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or spinach.

• Meat lovers: Top with cooked bacon bits or shredded chicken for a heartier version.

• Spicy twist: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy blue cheese dressing.

• Herb variations: Swap parsley for basil, thyme, or oregano for a different herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Beach Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the bread on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for Beach Bread?

Yes, any sturdy, rustic bread like ciabatta or sourdough works beautifully.

Can I prepare Beach Bread in advance?

You can assemble the bread a few hours ahead and bake it just before serving for best results.

Beach Bread

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• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4-servings
• Category: Appetizer, Breakfast, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Beach Bread is a savory, cheesy appetizer featuring rustic bread layered with rich blue cheese dressing, juicy tomatoes, and bubbling mozzarella. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a crowd-pleasing starter, this easy beach bread recipe is bursting with fresh flavor and summer vibes!

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Ingredients

• 1 (12-14 oz) French baguette or thick rustic bread slices

• 6 tbsp butter, softened

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/3 cup blue cheese dressing

• 1/2 cup diced tomato

• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Prepare the Bread:
  Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Split the baguette in half lengthwise or use thick slices of rustic bread.

• Assemble the Topping:
  Spread 3 tablespoons of softened butter onto each bread half. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder. Spread blue cheese dressing over the buttered bread.

• Add the Toppings:
  Evenly distribute diced tomatoes over the bread. Generously cover with grated mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Bake:
  Place bread on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are golden and crisp.

• Serve:
  Slice into smaller portions and serve immediately for a warm, cheesy treat!

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Notes

• For extra flavor, add crumbled cooked bacon or red pepper flakes before baking.

• Substitute blue cheese dressing with ranch if preferred.

• Use heirloom tomatoes for added color and sweetness.