Name: Cheddar & Harissa Garlic Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 500g Morrisons Market Street round crusty loaf of white bread (a sourdough boule works well); 100g salted butter, softened; 2-3 tbsp harissa (adjust according to preferred spice level); 3 large garlic cloves, grated; 75g mature cheddar, coarsely grated; 75g grated mozzarella

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Introduction

This Cheddar & harissa garlic bread is a spicy twist on a classic favorite. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, it’s perfect for sharing and adds a flavorful kick to any meal.

A round loaf of bread with a golden brown crust is cut into thick cross sections creating a grid pattern, filled with melted, gooey cheese that stretches between the cuts. The cheese inside is pale yellow with browned spots on top, giving a crispy texture. The bread sits on a metal baking tray with some crumbs and melted cheese edges around it. Beside the bread, several pieces have been pulled apart, showing the soft, light beige inside. The tray is placed on a green cloth over a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

500g Morrisons Market Street round crusty loaf of white bread (a sourdough boule works well)
100g salted butter, softened
2-3 tbsp harissa (adjust to your spice preference)
3 large garlic cloves, grated
75g mature cheddar, coarsely grated
75g grated mozzarella

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan/gas mark 5). Using a serrated knife, cut the bread loaf diagonally at 2cm intervals, almost all the way through. Repeat the cuts in the opposite direction to create a diamond pattern. Place the loaf on a baking tray lined with baking parchment.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, harissa, and grated garlic. Mix well with a spatula or wooden spoon. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Spread the harissa butter mixture thoroughly into the cuts of the bread. Sprinkle both cheeses into the gaps and over the top, ensuring every slit is filled with butter and cheese. Wrap the entire loaf tightly in foil.
Step 4: Bake the wrapped loaf for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil from the top and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve the bread whole, allowing everyone to tear off chunks and enjoy the spicy, cheesy goodness together.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer less heat, reduce the harissa to 1 tablespoon or substitute with a milder chili paste.
Add fresh herbs like chopped parsley or coriander for a fresh finish after baking.
Try using different cheeses such as gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.

Storage

Store any leftover garlic bread wrapped tightly in foil or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

How to Serve

A round loaf of bread is cut into a grid pattern with visible layers of melted cheese woven between the golden brown crust slices, some cheese slightly browned and bubbly on top. The bread shows a soft, light beige interior with crispy toasted edges, and a few loose pieces lie near the loaf on a scratched metal baking tray. The tray sits on a folded green cloth over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?

Yes, a sturdy gluten-free loaf works well, but be sure it’s firm enough to hold the butter and cheese fillings without falling apart.

How spicy is the harissa in this garlic bread?

Harissa provides a moderate spicy heat, but you can adjust the amount to taste. Start with less if you prefer mild flavors and add more to suit your preference.