If you’ve never had Beach Bread, you’re in for a treat! This coastal-inspired appetizer is a cross between garlic bread and cheesy toast, but with an extra buttery, melty goodness that makes it absolutely irresistible. It’s loaded with gooey cheese, fresh tomatoes, and a hint of garlic, all baked onto crispy bread. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side, a snack, or serving it up at a beachside cookout, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super easy to make. No fancy ingredients or techniques—just layer and bake!
Perfect for sharing. Serve it at parties, cookouts, or as an appetizer.
Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. A little garlic, a little butter, and a whole lot of melty cheese.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 loaf French or Italian bread, sliced in half lengthwise
4 tablespoons butter, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, but adds amazing flavor)
1 medium tomato, diced
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Full list of ingredients is below.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Slice the bread in half lengthwise and place it on the baking sheet. Spread the softened butter evenly over both halves and sprinkle with garlic powder.

Step 3: Add the Cheese and Toppings

Layer the mozzarella, cheddar, and blue cheese over the bread. Sprinkle with diced tomatoes, green onions, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. If you want a little extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice into pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use a good-quality bread with a crispy crust for the best texture.
For extra crunch, lightly toast the bread before adding toppings.
Love extra cheesiness? Add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap the blue cheese for feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor.
Add sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
Make it meaty by adding crumbled bacon or diced pepperoni.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Beach Bread pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, grilled seafood, or a cold summer cocktail. It also makes a great side for soups like tomato bisque or clam chowder.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to keep it crispy, or microwave for about 30 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

4 FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! Ciabatta, sourdough, or even a baguette work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the bread in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to get crispy edges?
Broiling for the last minute or two helps get that golden, crispy top.
Can I make this without tomatoes?
Absolutely! You can leave them out or replace them with another topping like caramelized onions.

Conclusion

Beach Bread is the perfect cheesy, garlicky, and buttery treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a summer gathering, a game night, or just craving something warm and comforting, this recipe will hit the spot. Try it out and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!

Beach Bread – The Ultimate Cheesy, Garlicky, and Buttery Appetizer

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Beach Bread is a beloved appetizer originating from the Southwest Gulf Coast of Florida, particularly popular in waterfront restaurants around Fort Myers Beach. This dish elevates traditional garlic bread by adding layers of rich flavors, including a unique twist with blue cheese dressing. It’s a delightful combination of crispy bread, creamy cheeses, and fresh tomatoes, making it a perfect snack or starter for gatherings.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 French baguette (12–14 ounces)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/3 cup blue cheese dressing
1/2 cup diced fresh tomatoes
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Bread:
- Slice the French baguette in half lengthwise to create two equal pieces.
- Place the halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
Add Butter and Seasoning:
- Spread 3 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over each half of the bread.
- Sprinkle each half with ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, ensuring even coverage.
Apply Blue Cheese Dressing:
- Evenly spread approximately 2½ tablespoons of blue cheese dressing over each buttered half.
- This layer adds a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Add Toppings:
- Distribute the diced tomatoes evenly over both halves.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the tomatoes.
- For a burst of color and freshness, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the cheese.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the edges of the bread are crisp.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool for a minute or two.
- Slice into desired portions and serve warm.

Notes

Variations: If blue cheese isn’t to your liking, ranch dressing can be used as a milder alternative. Additionally, toppings such as crumbled bacon, sliced olives, or sautéed mushrooms can be added for extra flavor.
Bread Choice: While a French baguette provides a delightful crunch, other types of crusty bread like Italian loaf can also be used. Ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions: Beach Bread pairs well with fresh salads, grilled seafood, or as a standalone appetizer with a chilled beverage.