Cheesy Garlic Bread

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

This Cheesy Garlic Bread is everything you want in a side dish—crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with bold garlic flavor. The combination of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, along with the buttery garlic spread, creates the perfect bite. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a savory snack, this cheesy garlic bread will hit the spot every time.

Ingredients

• French baguette or Italian bread (or any bread of your choice)

• Butter (softened)

• Garlic (minced)

• Mozzarella cheese (shredded)

• Parmesan cheese (grated)

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of spice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice the bread in half horizontally and place the halves on a baking sheet.

3. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper until well combined.

4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.

5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the buttered bread.

6. Optional: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the cheese if you prefer a little heat.

7. Place the bread in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden and crispy.

8. Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

9. Slice the bread into individual servings and enjoy hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4-6 servings, depending on how big you cut the slices. Preparation takes about 5 minutes, and baking time is around 10-12 minutes, making the total time to enjoy this cheesy treat around 15 minutes.

Variations

• Herbed version: Add dried oregano, basil, or thyme to the butter mixture for a more herbaceous flavor.

• Cheese variety: You can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a different flavor profile.

• Stuffed garlic bread: For extra indulgence, add a layer of ricotta cheese or cream cheese before spreading the garlic butter mixture.

• Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and vegan cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cheesy garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to melt the cheese again and crisp up the crust.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of 2-3 cloves of garlic.

2. Can I freeze cheesy garlic bread?

Yes, you can freeze the bread before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, simply thaw it and bake at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter spread and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready, spread it on the bread, top with cheese, and bake.

4. What kind of bread should I use?

You can use any kind of bread, but a baguette or Italian bread works best for the perfect balance of crust and soft inside. You can also use sourdough for a tangier flavor.

5. Can I add other toppings to the garlic bread?

Feel free to add extra toppings such as sliced tomatoes, olives, or even pepperoni to make it more like a cheesy pizza bread.

6. How can I make the bread extra crispy?

For an extra crispy crust, place the bread under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Just be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.

7. Can I use pre-sliced bread?

Yes, you can use pre-sliced bread, but I recommend using a thicker slice to hold up better with the cheese and butter.

8. Can I make this without cheese?

You can make garlic bread without cheese for a simpler, lighter version, or add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

9. How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Make sure to use a generous amount of garlic butter but not too much. If there’s too much moisture, it can make the bread soggy. Bake the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to catch any drips.

10. What can I serve with cheesy garlic bread?

Cheesy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, salads, or as an appetizer before a main meal. It’s also great on its own for a snack!

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Bread is the perfect comfort food, combining gooey cheese, rich garlic butter, and a crispy crust. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it on its own, this easy-to-make dish is always a hit. With its irresistible flavor and quick prep time, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!