Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy garlic bread is a comforting and flavorful side that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads. With a crispy crust, rich garlic butter, and melted cheeses, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh French bread, halved vertically
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (salted butter can be used)
• 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided (from a 12-ounce block if shredding yourself)
• Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Slice the French bread vertically into two long pieces and place them cut-side up on the baking sheet. If the top half wobbles, trim it slightly to lie flat.
2. Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter for 45–60 seconds. Stir in the finely minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Brush this garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle one-third of the Parmesan cheese evenly over the bread halves. Then top with 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, distributing it evenly.
4. Step 4: Bake the bread on the middle oven rack for about 12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
5. Step 5: (Optional) Switch your oven to high broil and broil the bread for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
6. Step 6: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve the cheesy garlic bread immediately for best taste and texture.

Tips & Variations

• For a more intense garlic flavor, add a bit of garlic powder along with the fresh garlic.
• Try mixing different cheeses such as provolone or cheddar with mozzarella for a unique twist.
• If you prefer softer bread, wrap the garlic buttered bread halves in foil before baking, then unwrap and broil for a crispy finish.
• Use fresh herbs as a garnish to add brightness and color just before serving.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy garlic bread in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bread for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh French bread for optimal texture. If using frozen bread, thaw it completely and lightly toast it before assembling to avoid sogginess.

How can I make this bread dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a dairy-free spread and use vegan cheese alternatives. Keep the garlic and herbs for full flavor.

Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

Print Recipe

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5 from 57 reviews

This Cheesy Garlic Bread recipe features fresh French bread topped with a rich garlic butter, Italian seasoning, and generous amounts of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Baked to bubbly perfection and optionally broiled for a golden crust, this irresistible side is perfect for any meal or gathering.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread

• 1 pound fresh French bread, halved vertically

Garlic Butter

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (salted butter can be used)
• 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cheese

• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided (from a 12-ounce block if shredding yourself)

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Slice the French bread vertically into two long pieces and place them cut-side up on the baking sheet. If the top half of the bread is unstable or wobbly, trim it slightly so it lays flat.
2. Make the Garlic Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter for 45–60 seconds. Stir in the finely minced garlic and Italian seasoning until well combined. Brush this flavorful garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread halves.
3. Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle 1/3 cup of the Parmesan cheese over the buttered bread halves. Next, top with 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, distributing it evenly for a cheesy, melty finish.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
5. Broil (Optional): For a crispier, golden-brown top, switch your oven to the high broil setting and broil the bread for 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. This step enhances the cheese’s texture and adds a deliciously toasted finish.
6. Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano along with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the bread at its best cheesy, garlicky goodness.

Notes

• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
• Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted, just reduce added salt elsewhere in your meal.
• Keep an eye on the bread during broiling as it can quickly go from golden to burnt.
• This bread is best served immediately to maintain its crisp crust and melty cheese.
• Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to refresh the crust.

Keywords: Cheesy Garlic Bread, Garlic Bread, Baked Cheese Bread, Mozzarella Bread, Parmesan Garlic Bread