Italian Dunkers Recipe

Prepare oven and rolls

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice each dutch crunch roll horizontally but not all the way through so the top and bottom remain connected (or split fully if preferred). Lightly brush the cut interiors with 1 teaspoon olive oil.

Make garlic-herb butter

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt 6 tbs unsalted butter over low heat or in 20–30 second bursts in the microwave. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbs chopped parsley, 1 tbs chopped basil, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Assemble cheese

Spoon or brush about two-thirds of the garlic-herb butter evenly onto the cut interior of the bottom halves of the rolls (reserve the rest for finishing). Distribute the shredded mozzarella evenly among the 4 rolls, pressing lightly so cheese is spread to the edges. Sprinkle the optional 2 tbs grated Parmesan over the mozzarella if using.

Bake until melty

Place assembled rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Tent loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning and bake in the preheated oven 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the rolls are heated through. Remove the foil and broil 1–2 minutes (watch carefully) to brown the tops slightly and make the crust crisp.

Finish and serve

Remove from oven. Brush the remaining garlic-herb butter over the top crusts of the rolls. Let rest 2 minutes, then slice each roll into 4 equal 'dunkers' (about 16 pieces total). Transfer to a serving platter alongside the marinara for dipping.

Warm the sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, heat 1 tbs olive oil until shimmering. Add 1 minced garlic clove and cook 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown). Add 2 cups store-bought marinara, 1 tsp red pepper flakes (if using), 1 tbs chopped basil and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir and simmer gently 5–7 minutes to meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Transfer the warmed marinara to a small serving bowl and place alongside the sliced Italian Dunkers for dipping.