Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort side that everyone will reach for first, Garlic Cheese Bread is, hands down, the clear winner! Picture this: toasty edges, gooey melted cheese, a rich butter-garlic spread, and a golden, crisp finish that just begs to be pulled apart and devoured. Whether you’re making this as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or the star of pasta night, each bite is packed with savory, melty goodness and that irresistible garlicky aroma. This recipe is quick, wildly satisfying, and basically guarantees that there won’t be any leftovers!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’re set to create something truly extraordinary. Each component brings a unique flavor, texture, or touch of color that transforms humble bread into memorable Garlic Cheese Bread.
- French or Italian bread: The foundation! Choose a loaf with a sturdy crust and soft interior—it holds all the savory toppings beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (softened): This creates a rich, creamy base for the garlic spread, letting all the flavors soak into the bread.
- Fresh garlic (minced): The heart of this recipe—nothing beats the punchy aroma and taste of real garlic.
- Chopped parsley (fresh or dried): For a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens up every bite.
- Salt: Just a pinch is enough to enhance and round out all the other flavors.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: This provides the oozy, stretchy cheese layer that makes Garlic Cheese Bread utterly craveable.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkling this on top adds a salty, nutty finish with delicious toasty edges.
How to Make Garlic Cheese Bread
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). You want it nice and hot so the bread crisps up and the cheese melts to perfection. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the tray halfway through for even browning.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Spread
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly. The butter should be creamy, and the garlic and herbs evenly distributed. This step is key—be generous and make sure every inch of bread gets coated because that’s where all the flavor lives.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread
Place the bread halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Smother both halves with your garlic butter, using a spatula or the back of a spoon to cover every corner. Don’t be shy—the butter keeps everything moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the buttered bread, making sure to go right up to the edges. Finish with a generous dusting of grated Parmesan for that unmistakable savory crust. The combination of cheeses makes the bread extra gooey and golden.
Step 5: Bake and Broil
Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. The cheese should be fully melted and bubbling by the end. For that irresistible golden top, switch to broil for 1–2 extra minutes—but don’t walk away! The bread can go from perfectly bronzed to burnt in a flash.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Let the bread cool just enough to handle, then use a sharp knife to slice it into generous pieces. Serve warm so that every slice is at its cheesy, gooey best!
How to Serve Garlic Cheese Bread
Garnishes
Finish your Garlic Cheese Bread with another sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for an extra pop of color. A light dusting of red pepper flakes is a fantastic touch if you like a hint of spice, or shake on a little Italian seasoning for a delicious herbal boost.
Side Dishes
This bread is a classic alongside pastas and hearty Italian soups, but it also holds its own with fresh salads or even a big platter of roasted vegetables. Pair with tomato soup for the ultimate comfort combo, or serve as the life of the party at your next gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun appetizer, slice the finished Garlic Cheese Bread into thin sticks and serve with a warm marinara dip on the side. Or, try turning it into cheesy croutons for a Caesar salad by cubing and toasting leftovers. Honestly, there are few wrong ways to enjoy this—get creative and make it your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If any Garlic Cheese Bread remains (which is a rare but happy problem), wrap slices tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. They’ll stay tasty for up to 2 days in the fridge, though the texture is best when enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze individual pieces of cooled Garlic Cheese Bread wrapped in foil, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They keep well for up to one month and are perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick, delicious side.
Reheating
To revive your bread, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through. For extra crispness, unwrap the foil in the last couple of minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the bread from getting chewy.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Absolutely! While freshly shredded mozzarella melts a bit more smoothly, pre-shredded cheese is convenient and will still yield wonderfully gooey results on your Garlic Cheese Bread.
What’s the best way to keep the bread from getting soggy?
Spreading the garlic butter all the way to the edges helps form a barrier to moisture, and baking at a high temperature ensures you get a crispy crust. Avoid overloading with cheese or butter to keep that irresistible crunch.
Can I make Garlic Cheese Bread ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the bread up to the step just before baking, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Are there any good cheese substitutes?
If you want to mix things up, try provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a little sharp cheddar for a punchier flavor. Feel free to get creative with your cheese blend!
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! This Garlic Cheese Bread recipe is completely vegetarian as written. Just be sure your Parmesan is labeled vegetarian if you’re strict about avoiding animal rennet.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Cheese Bread is so easy, so delicious, and just plain fun to share. It’s the best sidekick for any meal—but honestly, sometimes it deserves to be dinner all on its own! Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it disappears before it even hits the table.
Print
Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of garlic, cheese, and butter with this easy-to-make garlic cheese bread recipe. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, this cheesy garlic bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread (halved lengthwise)
Garlic Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheese Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and salt until well combined.
- Spread the garlic butter: Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over both halves, then top with Parmesan.
- Bake: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cheese-side up. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil: For a golden top, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Great as a side for pasta or soup.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
