Description
Cheesy Garlic Bread is a deliciously savory side dish featuring crusty French or Italian bread slathered with a garlic herb butter and topped with a melty blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to golden perfection, this easy-to-make garlic bread pairs wonderfully with pasta, soups, or salads, making it a comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread (halved lengthwise)
Garlic Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful garlic butter spread.
- Spread the Butter: Evenly spread the prepared garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the halved bread. Make sure to cover all areas to infuse maximum flavor.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the garlic buttered bread surfaces, then follow with an even layer of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Bread: Place the bread halves cheese-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted, is bubbly, and the edges of the bread turn golden brown.
- Optional Broil: For an extra crispy texture, you can broil the bread for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Watch carefully during broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
- Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Slice into 8 pieces and serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- For a different cheese profile, substitute Italian cheese blend or cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- You can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, making assembly quick and easy when ready to bake.
- Cheesy garlic bread pairs beautifully with pasta dishes, hearty soups, or fresh salads for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
