Cheesy Garlic Bread
A deliciously irresistible cheesy garlic bread recipe featuring warm, crusty bread, rich buttery garlic flavor, and gooey melted cheese, perfect as a side or snack.
Ingredients
Bread and Cheese
- 1 loaf loaf of French bread or Italian bread (about 12 inches)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or fontina.
Garlic Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Freshly minced garlic provides a stronger flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley) Fresh parsley adds color and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional
- to taste red pepper flakes Add for a little heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure a golden, crispy exterior.
- Slice the loaf of French or Italian bread in half lengthwise, or cut into smaller pieces for individual servings.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread, covering every inch.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the buttered bread, followed by grated Parmesan cheese. Optionally, add red pepper flakes.
Baking
- Place the prepared bread halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and edges are golden.
- For added crispiness, switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Serving
- Allow the cheesy garlic bread to cool for a few minutes, then slice it into pieces and serve immediately.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap and heat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes. For a healthier option, substitute whole wheat or gluten-free bread. Experiment with herbs and cheese variations as desired.