Tomato Basil Garlic Bread (Crispy, Fresh & Flavor-Packed Appetizer)

Tomato Basil Garlic Bread – Easy Homemade Favorite

This Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is the perfect combination of crispy toasted bread, fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and buttery garlic flavor. It’s simple to make, yet tastes like something you’d order at your favorite Italian restaurant.

Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch, this easy garlic bread recipe is always a hit. The fresh tomato and basil topping adds brightness and freshness that balances the rich, buttery base.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium tomatoes, diced (seeds removed)

• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice bread in half lengthwise and place on baking sheet.

3. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, and minced garlic.

4. Spread garlic butter evenly over cut sides of bread.

5. In another bowl, combine diced tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.

6. Spoon tomato mixture evenly over bread.

7. Sprinkle cheese on top if using.

8. Bake for 12–15 minutes until bread is crispy and cheese is melted.

9. For extra browning, broil 1–2 minutes at the end.

10. Slice and serve warm.