Dessert

Tomato Brown Butter Bread Recipe

ByAiden Wells January 9, 2026January 9, 2026

Introduction

This Tomato Brown Butter Bread is a savory, flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. Combining rich brown butter with tangy tomato paste and roasted garlic, it’s topped with melted Gruyere and Parmigiano for a cheesy finish. Enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or alongside your favorite meal.

The image shows three small pizza slices on a silver tray lined with white parchment paper, placed on a white marbled surface. Each pizza slice has a thick, golden-brown crust as the base layer, topped with a bright red tomato sauce layer, then covered with melted white cheese that has some golden spots from baking. The top layer is sprinkled with green herbs and small bits of red chili flakes, adding vibrant color contrast to the cheese. The textures range from the crispy crust edges to the gooey melted cheese and slightly scattered herbs on top. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 oz unsalted butter
1/4 cup tomato paste
2 tsp tamari
5 garlic cloves, roasted and minced
1/2 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Gruyere cheese, to taste
Parmigiano cheese, to taste
Fresh oregano, to taste
Crushed red peppers, to taste
8 slices ciabatta bread

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat until it turns golden and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the tomato paste and cook it in the hot butter for 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Add the roasted garlic, tamari, salt, pepper, and oregano, mixing well.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture over ice and whip until it becomes creamy and fluffy.
Step 5: Spread the brown butter mixture evenly onto each slice of ciabatta, then sprinkle with Gruyere and Parmigiano cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until the cheese melts and the bread is toasted.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and top with fresh oregano and crushed red peppers before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth, use homemade roasted garlic or garlic confit if available.
Swap tamari with soy sauce for a different soy flavor.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top after baking for a touch of sweetness.
Use gluten-free bread if you need a gluten-free option.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. The bread is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.

How to Serve

The image shows three small, oval-shaped pizza breads on a baking tray lined with white parchment paper. Each pizza bread has a thick, golden-brown crust as the base layer, topped with a vibrant orange-red sauce layer that is rich and slightly bubbly. Over the sauce is a generous layer of melted white cheese, scattered unevenly with some parts appearing gooey and others slightly browned. The top is sprinkled with green herbs and red chili flakes, adding spots of green and red color. The tray rests on a white marbled surface, and the close-up shot captures the texture of the crust, melted cheese, and herbs very clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the brown butter mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the brown butter mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature and whip again before spreading on the bread.

What if I don’t have tamari?

If tamari isn’t available, soy sauce is a great substitute. Alternatively, a pinch of salt and a dash of Worcestershire sauce can work to add umami depth.