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
Scale
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
