🥖Caprese-Stuffed Garlic Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 large baguette or Italian loaf
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or shredded
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tsp balsamic glaze (optional for drizzle)
• Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat & prep:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil.
2. Cut the bread:
   Take your baguette and slice it in half lengthwise like you’re opening a sandwich. Hollow out some of the soft inside bread if it’s thick — this creates space for stuffing.
3. Make the garlic butter:
   In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Brush the inside of both halves of the bread generously with this mixture. Set aside a bit for final brushing.
4. Layer the caprese filling:
   On one half of the bread, layer sliced mozzarella, followed by halved cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red chili flakes if using.
5. Bake it up:
   Carefully place the second half of the bread on top of the first. Wrap loosely in foil and bake for 10 minutes. Then unwrap and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to crisp the top.
6. Finish with flair:
   Once the bread is out of the oven, brush the top with the remaining garlic butter. Slice into thick pieces, sprinkle with torn fresh basil, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
7. Serve immediately:
   This is best served hot, melty, and golden — perfect for dipping or just devouring solo.