Save These elegant Italian-inspired appetizers feature crispy baguette slices brushed with olive oil and toasted until golden. Each crostini is topped with fresh mozzarella that becomes wonderfully melty after a quick return to the oven, then layered with thin slices of roast beef and delicate prosciutto. A final touch of torn fresh basil and balsamic glaze adds brightness and sophistication. The combination of warm, crunchy bread with creamy cheese and savory cured meats creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
The evening I made these crostini, my kitchen smelled like an Italian bakery. I had friends coming over unexpectedly and needed something impressive but fast. These became the star of the night and vanished in minutes.
My sister took one bite and immediately asked for the recipe. She said it tasted like something from a high-end restaurant but better because the bread was still warm from the oven. Now she makes them for every dinner party.
Ingredients
- French baguette: A day old baguette actually works best since it holds up better when toasted
- Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for brushing the bread
- Fresh mozzarella: Slice it slightly thicker than you think you should it melts beautifully
- Roast beef: Thinly sliced deli roast beef adds a savory beefy foundation
- Prosciutto: The saltiness perfectly balances the creamy mozzarella
- Fresh basil: Tear the leaves by hand rather than cutting for the best flavor release
- Balsamic glaze: This adds sweetness and acidity that cuts through the rich meats and cheese
Instructions
- Toast the baguette slices:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil and bake for 7 to 8 minutes flipping halfway until golden and crisp.
- Melt the mozzarella:
- Top each crostini with a slice of mozzarella and return to the oven for just 2 minutes until the cheese begins to soften and glisten.
- Layer the meats:
- Remove from the oven and layer each piece with a small fold of roast beef followed by a slice of prosciutto letting the edges drape naturally.
- Add the finishing touches:
- Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze and a freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and the cheese is melted.
Save Last summer I made these for a rooftop gathering and people kept wandering back to the kitchen just to grab one more. Something about the combination of textures and temperatures makes them completely addictive.
Bread Selection Secrets
I have learned that a slightly denser baguette with a thick crust works better than a light airy one. The sturdy bread holds up under the weight of the toppings and maintains that satisfying crunch even after the melted cheese touches it.
Meat Layering Strategy
Place the roast beef first as a base then drape the prosciutto over the top. This prevents the prosciutto from becoming tough and allows each meat to shine while creating the most beautiful presentation.
Make Ahead Wisdom
You can toast the bread and slice all ingredients hours before serving. Keep everything at room temperature and assemble just five minutes before guests arrive.
- Warm the toasted bread for 30 seconds before adding cheese
- Have the balsamic glaze at room temperature for easier drizzling
- Tear basil leaves just before serving to prevent browning
Save These crostini have become my go to for impromptu gatherings and they never fail to impress. Hope they become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
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You can toast the baguette slices up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container and assemble with the toppings just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- → What can I use instead of prosciutto?
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Thinly sliced pancetta, speck, or even coppa would work beautifully. For a non-cured option, try thinly sliced ham or salami.
- → How do I store leftovers?
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These are best enjoyed immediately while the bread is still crisp. Leftovers can be refrigerated but the bread will soften. Reheat briefly in a 350°F oven to recrisp if desired.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
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Burrata would be incredibly creamy, while provolone or fontina would offer great melting properties. Smoked mozzarella adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- → What other toppings work well?
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Thinly sliced cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or a dollop of pesto complement the meats and cheese beautifully. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan before the final bake adds extra richness.
- → How many does this serve?
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This recipe yields 16 crostini, which typically serves 6-8 people as an appetizer. Plan for 2-3 pieces per person depending on what else you're serving.
