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Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 1 pound fresh French bread, halved vertically

Garlic Butter

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (salted butter can be used)
  • 45 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