Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
If you have a soft spot for warm, melty, and oh-so-satisfying comfort food, then this Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines the irresistible flavors of garlic and butter with gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, all nestled atop a crusty loaf of bread that crisps up beautifully in the oven. Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or needing the perfect appetizer for a gathering, this recipe delivers every time with heartwarming ease and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients that pack a punch is what makes this Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe truly special. Each element plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of creaminess, zest, and that golden, bubbly finish you can’t wait to bite into.
- 1 loaf French or Italian bread (cut in half lengthwise): Choose fresh, crusty bread for the best texture and flavor contrast between crunchy crust and soft center.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): This forms the rich, creamy base for the garlic mixture and helps everything melt beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic is the soul of this recipe, delivering fragrant and savory notes that make the bread irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness and lovely green flecks for visual appeal.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the garlic or cheese.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just a hint of spice to balance the richness of butter and cheese.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, stringy layer of pure cheesy delight.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty undertones that deepen the cheese flavor and add a slight crustiness on top.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lining your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper ensures easy cleanup and helps protect the bread from getting soggy on the bottom, which keeps every bite perfectly crisp.
Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine your softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Make sure it’s well blended — this aromatic garlic butter spread is what flavors every inch of your bread and makes the taste unforgettable.
Step 3: Butter Your Bread
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of your bread halves. Don’t be shy here — this layer is key for flavor and moistness. Getting full coverage ensures each bite is packed with savory goodness.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the bread halves, then top with grated Parmesan. Using a mix of cheeses gives you that irresistible gooey melt combined with a slightly crispy, golden crust when baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the bread halves on your lined baking sheet, cut side facing up, and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For an extra special golden top, broil on high for 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Slice and Serve Warm
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool just a few minutes to set the cheese slightly. Then slice into eight generous pieces and get ready to savor that comforting, cheesy, garlicky perfection.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While this bread shines on its own, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top after baking adds an eye-catching pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A drizzle of olive oil can also boost the richness if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
Cheesy garlic bread is the quintessential companion to pasta dishes like spaghetti marinara, creamy Alfredo, or even a hearty lasagna. It also pairs beautifully with soups — think tomato basil, minestrone, or creamy potato soup — soaking up every last delicious spoonful.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe into a fun appetizer by slicing into bite-size cubes and serving with a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping. You can also make a garlic bread pizza by adding pepperoni, veggies, or extra cheese on top before baking for a game-night favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare), wrap the bread tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days but is best enjoyed the same day for perfect texture.
Freezing
This Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the unbaked, buttered, and cheesed bread tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil, then freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, use the oven set to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it makes the bread soggy rather than crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While French or Italian bread works best due to its crust and crumb, you can experiment with ciabatta or even a sturdy sandwich loaf. Just adjust baking times slightly depending on thickness.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
You can substitute butter with plant-based spreads and use vegan mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives. The flavor will be a bit different, but still delicious and gooey.
How can I add some heat to the Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe?
Try adding red pepper flakes either into the garlic butter mixture or sprinkled on top before baking. You could also top with a dash of hot sauce after baking for an extra kick.
Can this bread be made ahead and baked later?
Yes! Prepare the bread with garlic butter and cheese, then wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for preparing in advance for a party or dinner.
What’s the secret to getting perfectly melted cheese without drying out the bread?
Starting with softened butter and evenly spreading it helps keep the bread moist. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for just enough time to melt cheese and crisp crust without drying out is key. Broiling at the end adds golden color without overcooking the bread.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe is a warm hug on a plate—simple yet packed with bold flavors that bring pure joy every time. Whether it’s a quick snack, a side to your favorite pasta, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, it’s easy to make and impossible not to love. Give it a try today and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously cheesy garlic bread made with fresh garlic, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, perfect as a side dish for pasta or soups. This Italian-American classic features a buttery garlic spread on crusty French or Italian bread, toasted to golden perfection in the oven for a warm, bubbly treat.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf French or Italian bread (cut in half lengthwise)
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients form a smooth, flavorful garlic butter.
- Spread Garlic Butter: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread halves, ensuring every inch is covered for optimal flavor.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over both halves, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese to create a rich, cheesy topping.
- Bake Bread: Place the bread halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Broil for Golden Top (Optional): For an extra golden and slightly crispy top, switch the oven to broil and cook the bread for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the bread from the oven, allow it to cool slightly, then slice into 8 pieces and serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
- Swap parsley for basil or oregano for a different herbal flavor.
- Serve as a perfect side dish for pasta, soups, or with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
