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Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

4.5 from 108 reviews

This Cheesy Bread Quick Easy recipe is the ultimate guide to making a delicious, garlicky, and cheesy bread that’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side. Using simple ingredients like fresh garlic, softened butter, fresh herbs, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this recipe delivers a crispy, bubbly bread with a rich flavor that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for gatherings or a comforting treat, this recipe offers tips for adding optional toppings and broiling for that perfect golden finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread, French bread, or sourdough bread

Garlic Butter

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional

  • Red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat
  • Sliced tomatoes, olives, pepperoni, or other desired toppings

Instructions

  1. Prepare Garlic Butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful garlic butter. Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.
  2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the bread evenly and melting the cheese perfectly.
  3. Slice Bread: Carefully slice the bread loaf lengthwise into two equal halves to allow for topping and baking.
  4. Score Bread (Optional): Create shallow diagonal cuts across the cut sides of each bread half. This step helps the garlic butter and cheese penetrate better and adds texture.
  5. Spread Garlic Butter: Generously spread the prepared garlic butter over the cut sides of both bread halves, ensuring an even coating for rich flavor.
  6. Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over both halves, followed by a layer of grated Parmesan cheese to create a creamy and savory topping.
  7. Optional Toppings: Add any desired toppings such as sliced tomatoes, olives, or pepperoni to enhance flavor and customize your cheesy bread.
  8. Bake: Place the prepared bread halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and beginning to turn light golden brown.
  9. Broil (Optional): For an extra golden and slightly crispy cheese topping, broil the bread for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  10. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool slightly after baking. Slice and serve warm to enjoy the perfect gooey and flavorful cheesy bread.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for better texture as fresh bread might become soggy under the toppings.
  • Adjust garlic amounts based on your preference for stronger or milder flavor.
  • Broiling is optional but recommended for enhanced browning of the cheese.
  • Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a unique taste.
  • For added heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best results.

Keywords: Cheesy bread, Garlic bread, Easy appetizer, Quick cheese bread, Mozzarella bread, Parmesan bread, Italian bread recipe