Cheesy Garlic Bread
This cheesy garlic bread is the ultimate comfort food—crispy on the edges, soft and buttery inside, loaded with melted cheese and savory garlic flavor. It’s fast, easy, and absolutely addictive. Serve it with pasta, soup, salad, or as a standalone snack.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6–8 slices (1 loaf)
Ingredients:
1 loaf French bread or Italian bread, halved lengthwise
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced (or 1½ tsp garlic powder)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Slice the bread lengthwise and place cut sides up on the sheet.
Step 2: Make Garlic Butter
In a bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings (like red pepper or Italian herbs).
Step 3: Assemble
Spread the garlic butter evenly over each bread half.
Sprinkle both cheeses evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—but watch closely!
Step 5: Serve
Let cool slightly, then slice into individual pieces. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Tips & Notes:
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Don’t skip broiling—just 1 minute gives a gorgeous bubbly crust.
Add a layer of sliced tomatoes or pepperoni for a pizza-style twist.
Make it ahead: prep and refrigerate before baking, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: Yes, but freshly shredded melts smoother and tastes better.
Q: What kind of bread is best?
A: French bread, Italian bread, ciabatta, or even baguette—just look for a sturdy, crusty loaf.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cheeses. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost.
Q: Can I freeze cheesy garlic bread?
A: Yes! Assemble and freeze unbaked halves. Bake straight from frozen at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
Serving Ideas:
With pasta like spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine alfredo
Alongside soups like tomato basil or creamy broccoli
As an appetizer with marinara dipping sauce
With a fresh salad for a light balance
Nutritional Info
Calories: 210
Protein: 7g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 330mg
Nutritional values may vary depending on bread and cheese used.
Would you like a printable recipe card, a stuffed garlic bread variation, or a quick video walkthrough for this recipe?