Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy garlic bread is the ideal balance of savory, cheesy goodness and crispy, buttery bread. The garlic flavor is perfectly complemented by the rich, melted cheese, making it irresistible with every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal or a quick snack when you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

1 loaf of French bread or baguette
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the loaf of French bread or baguette in half lengthwise.
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, and salt. Stir well to create the garlic butter mixture.
Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the buttered bread, followed by a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese.
Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For an extra crispy finish, place the bread under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 15-17 minutes

Variations

Herbed Garlic Bread: Add fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or oregano to the garlic butter for an extra burst of flavor.
Spicy Garlic Bread: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the garlic butter.
Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar, provolone, or gouda, for a unique twist.
Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and shredded vegan cheese for a dairy-free version of this cheesy garlic bread.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cheesy garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the garlic bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though the bread may lose some of its crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of bread for cheesy garlic bread?

Yes, you can use any type of bread, but a sturdy loaf like French bread or a baguette works best for the texture.

2. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can substitute garlic powder, but fresh garlic gives the bread a more intense and aromatic flavor.

3. How can I make cheesy garlic bread spicy?

Add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic bread up to the point of baking, then cover it and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. Bake it just before serving.

5. How do I know when the cheesy garlic bread is done?

The bread should be golden brown around the edges and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. If you like extra crispy bread, you can broil it for an additional minute or two.

6. Can I use shredded cheese or does it need to be fresh?

Shredded cheese works just as well as fresh cheese. Just be sure to use a good quality cheese for the best melt.

7. Can I make cheesy garlic bread without cheese?

While it won’t be “cheesy,” you can still make garlic bread without cheese. Simply skip the cheese topping and enjoy a flavorful garlic butter bread.

8. Can I add other toppings to cheesy garlic bread?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed onions, tomatoes, or even bacon bits for extra flavor.

9. What is the best way to serve cheesy garlic bread?

Serve it as a side dish to pasta, soups, or salads. It’s also great on its own as a snack.

10. Can I freeze cheesy garlic bread?

Yes, you can freeze cheesy garlic bread. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Cheesy garlic bread is a simple yet indulgent dish that everyone will love. With its rich, buttery garlic flavor and melted cheese, it’s a perfect side or snack for any occasion. Whether you make it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to impress. Easy to make, customizable with various ingredients, and absolutely delicious, cheesy garlic bread is a must-try for any bread lover.

Best Cheesy Garlic Bread

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Indulge in the best cheesy garlic bread that’s perfectly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with rich, garlicky flavor and melted cheese. This homemade garlic bread recipe is easy to prepare, and it pairs perfectly with any pasta or salad. Ideal for serving as a snack, side dish, or appetizer for gatherings and parties.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 loaf of French baguette or Italian bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Salt to taste

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the baguette or Italian bread in half horizontally.
In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano (if using), and salt.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on the cut side of both bread halves.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously on top of the buttered sides.
Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a minute before slicing and serving.

Notes

You can adjust the amount of garlic to your preference for a stronger or milder garlic flavor.
To make this recipe even more indulgent, add a bit of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
If you prefer a more crispy bread, broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking.