Introduction:
Cheesy Garlic Stuffed Flatbread is a delightful fusion of soft, fluffy flatbread and a rich, gooey cheese filling, complemented by a savory garlic butter topping. This homemade dish makes for a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish to pair with your favorite meal. The warm, cheesy center and the garlic-infused crust will leave everyone coming back for more. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this flatbread is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
For the Flatbread Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp instant yeast
3/4 cup warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cheese Filling:
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp dried oregano (optional)
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1/2 tsp salt
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until the dough begins to come together.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, ricotta cheese (if using), Parmesan, garlic powder, black pepper, and dried oregano (if using). Mix well to combine.
Assemble the Flatbread:
Preheat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball and then roll them out into thin circles, about 6 inches in diameter.
Place a generous amount of cheese mixture in the center of one dough circle, then fold the edges over the filling to seal it, creating a pocket.
Carefully flatten the stuffed dough ball into a thicker, round flatbread shape.
Cook the Flatbread:
Lightly oil the skillet and cook the stuffed flatbread one at a time. Place the flatbread in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted inside.
Make the Garlic Butter:
While the flatbread cooks, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and fresh parsley (if using) in a small bowl. Stir well.
Serve:
Once the flatbread is done, brush the garlic butter mixture over the warm flatbread. Serve immediately, and enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!
Description:
Cheesy Garlic Stuffed Flatbread is a decadent treat that offers a perfect combination of crispy outer layers and a rich, cheesy filling. The garlic butter drizzle on top adds an extra punch of flavor, making each bite irresistibly savory. The dough is soft and pillowy, and the cheese oozes out with every bite. This flatbread is ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying as a comforting meal.
Tips:
Be sure not to overfill the flatbread with cheese, as it may cause the dough to tear while cooking.
If you don’t have a skillet, you can also cook the flatbread in a hot oven (450°F) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, to get a crisp, golden finish.
For a richer garlic flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder to the dough itself.
If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute it with cream cheese or simply use more mozzarella for a cheesier filling.
Let the flatbread cool slightly before serving to prevent the cheese from burning your mouth!
Variations:
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Flatbread: Add a handful of sautéed spinach to the cheese mixture for a healthier, more flavorful twist.
Spicy Cheesy Flatbread: Add finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
Herb and Cheese Flatbread: Mix in fresh or dried herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary into the cheese mixture for a fragrant, herb-infused flatbread.
Meat Lover’s Stuffed Flatbread: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken along with the cheese for a meaty variation.
Corrections:
Be careful not to overcook the flatbread; too much time in the skillet may cause the cheese to spill out or the crust to burn. It’s better to cook on medium heat and monitor closely.
If the dough is too sticky while rolling it out, sprinkle a little extra flour to prevent it from sticking to your rolling pin.
Enjoy:
Now that your Cheesy Garlic Stuffed Flatbread is ready, dive into this cheesy, garlicky, crispy delight! Perfect for any occasion, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, it’s guaranteed to disappear quickly. Enjoy!