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A platter of warm and cheesy party bread appetizers arranged on a wooden board for easy entertaining.

Ultimate Party Bread Appetizers

Transform a simple loaf of bread into a warm, shareable, and utterly delicious appetizer perfect for any gathering. This master recipe provides a flavorful garlic-herb butter base and endless topping combinations, from cheesy pull-apart bread to elegant smoked salmon bites. It's designed for minimal fuss and maximum crowd-pleasing impact.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large loaf French bread or baguette
  • 1/4 cup high-quality olive oil
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Pastry brush or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Garlic press or mincer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Slice the bread: For individual pieces, slice the loaf diagonally into 1-inch thick slices. For a pull-apart style, make deep cuts in a crosshatch pattern without cutting through the bottom crust. Place on the prepared sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter and olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to infuse.
  4. Generously brush or spoon the garlic-herb butter over each bread slice or into the crevices of the crosshatched loaf, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
  5. Layer the toppings: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese first, followed by mozzarella, bacon, and sun-dried tomatoes.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread edges are golden brown. For a crispier top, broil for the final 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool on the sheet for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with fresh chives and serve immediately.

Notes

Prep Ahead: Slice bread, make garlic butter, and prep toppings up to a day in advance. Store separately in the fridge. Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the bread (unbaked), wrap tightly, and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. Variations: Try the Spinach & Artichoke Bread Boat, Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Smokes, or Pizza Party Pull-Apart as described in the article. To prevent burning, tent with foil if bread browns before cheese melts. Balance your party spread with a fresh, non-baked option like bruschetta.