Good Dog! Recipe
House-Made garlic cheese bread. Served with a side of marinara for dipping.
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Ingredients
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Garlic Cheese Bread
Marinara Dipping Sauce
Method
Garlic Cheese Bread
Preheat and prepare loaf
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Using a serrated knife, slice the loaf in half lengthwise to create two flat halves for topping.
Make garlic butter
In a medium bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic (4 cloves), chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly combined.
Assemble the bread
Spread the garlic-parmesan butter evenly over the cut sides of both loaf halves. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the buttered surfaces, pressing lightly so the cheese adheres. If you like an extra Parmesan crust, sprinkle an additional 1-2 tablespoons of Parmesan on top.
Bake
Place the prepared loaf halves on the baking sheet, cut side up. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden, about 12–15 minutes. For a more browned, slightly crisp top, switch the oven to broil and broil 1–2 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.
Marinara Dipping Sauce
Sauté aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, stirring so it doesn't brown.
Simmer sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook 30 seconds, then add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar (if using), 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes to thicken and meld flavors, stirring occasionally.