The smell of garlic cheese bread reminds me of my childhood in St. Louis. Cunetto’s House of Pasta has been a favorite for over 50 years. It was always at family gatherings, bringing warmth and tradition.

Now, you can make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves St. Louis or Italian-American food. Follow this guide to make this local favorite in your kitchen.

The Legacy of Cunetto’s House of Pasta

For over five decades, Cunetto’s House of Pasta has been a beloved spot in St. Louis’s Italian neighborhood, The Hill. It has been a key part of the city’s food scene. Cunetto’s has helped keep St. Louis’s Italian food traditions alive.

St. Louis Italian Heritage Connection

Cunetto’s House of Pasta opened in 1972, showing the rich Italian culture of The Hill. Its long presence in the neighborhood makes it a symbol of St. Louis’s Italian roots. It connects both locals and visitors to the city’s famous Italian food.

Five Decades of Culinary Excellence

For five decades, Cunetto’s has served top-notch Italian food. Its garlic cheese bread is a favorite. The restaurant’s focus on quality and traditional recipes has made it a top spot for both locals and tourists.

Impact on Local Food Culture

Cunetto’s has greatly influenced St. Louis’s food scene. It has inspired many Italian chefs and home cooks. Its garlic cheese bread is a symbol of the city’s love for Italian food and its traditions.

“Cunetto’s House of Pasta is not just a restaurant; it’s a living, breathing piece of St. Louis history, a testament to the enduring power of authentic Italian flavors and the enduring spirit of The Hill.”

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Italian Garlic Bread

Creating the perfect Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread begins with top-notch Italian bread ingredients. The recipe’s heart lies in a few key elements that blend to form the Cunetto’s taste. A crusty, fresh Italian or French bread is the base, perfect for the rich toppings.

Fresh garlic is a must for any garlic bread. Cunetto’s recipe demands mincing or finely chopping several cloves. This ensures a bold, real garlic taste that pre-minced or powdered can’t match.

A mix of high-quality cheeses is crucial to balance the garlic. Cunetto’s uses mozzarella and Parmesan. Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds a nutty, savory flavor. The cheese is spread generously on the bread before baking.

Unsalted butter is melted with the garlic, adding richness. Fresh parsley is optional but adds color and a fresh taste. By choosing and mixing these authentic Italian bread ingredients, Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread comes to life.

“The quality of the ingredients is paramount when crafting Cunetto’s iconic garlic cheese bread. Fresh, high-quality bread, fragrant garlic, and a perfect cheese blend are the foundation for this beloved dish.”

Cunetto’s Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe

Take your homemade garlic bread to the next level with Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread recipe. It starts with homemade garlic butter. Then, it’s topped with a delicious cheese blend and baked to perfection.

Garlic Butter Base Preparation

Start by mixing softened unsalted butter with minced fresh garlic. Use fresh garlic for a stronger flavor. Spread this garlic butter on a crusty Italian or French bread loaf, cut in half.

Cheese Selection and Application

Mix shredded mozzarella with grated Parmesan cheese for the cheese layer. This mix gives you a cheesy, savory taste. Sprinkle it over the garlic butter, covering the bread evenly.

Baking Temperature and Timing

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese melts. For a crispy crust, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Follow these steps to make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home. Enjoy a homemade garlic butter base, a tasty cheese blend, and a perfectly baked crust.

Mastering the Perfect Crusty Texture

Getting the perfect crusty texture is crucial for Cunetto’s signature garlic cheese bread. The secret is in choosing the right bread and using the right baking techniques. Start by picking a sturdy Italian or French loaf. Cut it into 1-inch thick slices for even cooking.

To get that signature crusty exterior, use plenty of garlic butter. This mixture adds flavor and helps create a great crust. Bake the slices at 425°F (220°C) for 8 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

For an extra crunch, broil the bread for 1 to 2 minutes after baking. This step melts and caramelizes the cheese and butter. It makes the bread golden-brown on the outside and soft on the inside. This is what makes Cunetto’s crusty garlic bread so special.

Follow these tips to make the perfect Italian bread crust at home. Enjoy the same delicious experience as Cunetto’s fans.

Professional Tips for Homemade Italian Bread

To make perfect homemade Italian garlic bread, like Cunetto’s, you need some expert techniques. First, pick a high-quality Italian or French loaf. It should have a firm, golden-brown crust. This crust is key for your tasty bread.

Bread Selection Guidelines

Choose an Italian or French loaf with a sturdy, golden-brown crust
Look for a bread with a chewy, airy interior that can soak up the flavorful garlic butter
Avoid pre-sliced or soft sandwich bread as they won’t achieve the same crusty texture

Temperature Control Techniques

Controlling the oven temperature is vital for baking the best Italian garlic bread. Ensure your oven is preheated well. This ensures even heat during baking.

Achieving the Golden-Brown Finish

To get a golden-brown crust, brush the bread with olive oil before baking. Use a pizza stone or baking steel to spread heat evenly. This helps the crust turn golden and crispy. Watch the bread closely in the last few minutes. Use the broiler briefly if needed to get the perfect color.

By using these professional tips, you can make authentic Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home. Enjoy the delicious, golden-brown crust and the amazing aroma of fresh garlic bread.

Creative Variations and Adaptations

Cunetto’s classic garlic cheese bread is loved by many. But, there are countless ways to make it even better. Try out different garlic bread variations and Italian bread adaptations to spice up your cooking.

Begin by adding aromatic herb-infused garlic butter to your bread. Mix in chopped basil, rosemary, or thyme for a fresh taste. For a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Herb-infused garlic butter: Basil, rosemary, thyme
Spicy garlic bread: Crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños

Want to make it healthier? Use a multigrain bread adaptation for more fiber and a nutty flavor. Mix different cheeses like feta, gouda, or cheddar for exciting creative toppings.

Multigrain bread adaptation
Cheese combinations: Feta, gouda, cheddar

These flexible variations let you tailor Cunetto’s recipe to your liking. You can keep the classic taste while meeting your dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions and Wine Pairings

Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread is perfect with many Italian dishes. It goes great with Fettuccine Alfredo or Spaghetti Bolognese. It also pairs well with minestrone or tomato bisque for a cozy meal.

Compatible Main Courses

Fettuccine Alfredo
Spaghetti Bolognese
Minestrone Soup
Tomato Bisque

Wine Selection Guide

For wine, a Pinot Grigio is a good choice. It’s light and crisp. A Sangiovese is great for medium-bodied reds. And for bold pasta, a Chianti is perfect.

Presentation Tips

To make it feel like Italy, serve Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread on a wooden board. Cut it just before serving. This keeps it fresh and crispy, making your meal better.

Wine Pairing	Dish Recommendation
Pinot Grigio	Fettuccine Alfredo
Sangiovese	Spaghetti Bolognese
Chianti	Minestrone Soup

Storage and Reheating Methods

After enjoying Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread, it’s key to know how to store and reheat leftovers. The right methods keep the bread’s crisp texture and flavor. This way, you can enjoy it for days.

Storing Garlic Bread

Let your leftover garlic bread cool down before wrapping it in foil or plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh. You can store it at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for 3-5 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Bread

To reheat your leftover garlic bread, use the oven or toaster oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread on a rack or baking sheet. Heat for 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy. Don’t use the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.

Bread Type	Baking Time for Crispiness
Italian Loaf	10-12 minutes
French Baguette	8-10 minutes
Sourdough	12-14 minutes

By using these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy Cunetto’s garlic bread for longer. It will taste and feel just like the first time.

Conclusion

Recreating Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home lets you taste St. Louis’s favorite Italian dishes. This recipe uses simple ingredients and careful steps for the perfect flavors and textures. By following these tips, you can make a homemade version that’s just as good as the original.

This homemade Italian garlic bread is great as an appetizer or with your favorite Italian meals. It’s sure to become a hit with your family.

Cunetto’s recipe has been loved by locals and tourists for its quality ingredients and traditional methods. This recipe lets you bring a taste of St. Louis cuisine into your home. It’s a way to celebrate the rich Italian heritage of the area.

This garlic cheese bread is easy to make and perfect for any Italian-inspired dish. Try it out and enjoy making a dish from Cunetto’s in your kitchen.

FAQ

What is Cunetto’s House of Pasta known for?

Cunetto’s House of Pasta in St. Louis is famous for its garlic cheese bread. This dish has been loved for over 50 years. It’s made with crusty bread, melted cheese, and garlic, showing the city’s Italian roots.

How long has Cunetto’s House of Pasta been in operation?

Cunetto’s House of Pasta started in 1972 in The Hill, a historic Italian area in St. Louis. For over five decades, it has been a key part of St. Louis’s food scene, shaping local Italian cuisine.

What are the key ingredients for Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread?

The main ingredients are fresh, crusty Italian or French bread, unsalted butter, minced garlic, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. You can also add fresh parsley.

How do you make Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread at home?

Begin by making garlic butter with softened butter and minced garlic. Cut a crusty loaf in half and spread the garlic butter. Mix mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle on the bread.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble.

What is the key to achieving the perfect crusty texture for Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread?

For a perfect crust, use a sturdy Italian or French loaf. Cut it into 1-inch slices. Spread garlic butter generously for a better crust.

Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8-14 minutes, watching to avoid burning. For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking.

What are some tips for professional-quality homemade Italian garlic bread?

Choose a high-quality Italian or French loaf and preheat the oven well. Brush the bread with olive oil before baking. Using a pizza stone helps with even heat.

Keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes. Use the broiler briefly for a golden color.

What are some creative variations of Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread?

Add fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme to the garlic butter for an herb-infused version. For spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Use multigrain bread for a whole grain version.

Try different cheese combinations like feta, gouda, or cheddar for unique flavors.

What are some recommended pairings for Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread?

It goes well with Italian dishes like Fettuccine Alfredo or Spaghetti Bolognese. It also pairs well with soups like minestrone or tomato bisque. For wine, try Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese, or Chianti.

How can you store and reheat Cunetto’s garlic cheese bread?

Cool the bread completely before wrapping it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerated for 3-5 days. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.

To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven. Avoid the microwave to keep it crispy.

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