There’s nothing quite like the warm, buttery aroma of cheesy garlic bread wafting through your kitchen! Perfect as a side for pasta, wings, pizza, a snack, or even a movie night treat, this quick and easy recipe will have you diving into cheesy goodness in no time. Let’s get into it.
Your grocery list
Produce
- 1 bulb of garlic (or 1 tablespoon of garlic powder) – I like to use roasted garlic to add more depth to the flavor
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or more, if you like things really cheesy)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
Bakery
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread
Baking and Pantry Items
- Olive oil (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Dried Italian herbs (optional)
Equipment/tools you’ll need
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Small mixing bowl
- Knife or rubber spatula (for spreading)
- Parchment paper (for easy clean-up)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Quick Cheesy Garlic Bread
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic (or garlic powder), mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re using dried Italian herbs, add them here too!
3. Spread the cheesy garlic mixture evenly on the cut sides of the bread. For extra flavor, drizzle a little olive oil on top. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown. Optional: For a crispier finish, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
4. Garnish with more parsley, basil, and/or chives. Pair with marinara or alfredo sauce to serve.
Tips for Making Great Cheesy Garlic Bread
- For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Use a combination of fresh herbs like basil or chives to garnish the bread after baking for a burst of bright, freshness flavor.
- A good quality French or Italian bread works best. Look for a loaf that’s crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. This helps it hold up under the cheese and garlic without getting soggy.
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a stronger, more robust flavor compared to garlic powder. If you prefer a milder taste, you can roast the garlic beforehand, which adds a sweet, caramelized flavor.
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This allows for easy spreading and ensures an even distribution of flavor without making the bread soggy.
- While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, experimenting with a mix of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone can elevate your garlic bread to a whole new level.
- For that perfect golden-brown top, broil the garlic bread for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
- Don’t overload with toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on the cheese and garlic, too much can weigh the bread down and make it soggy. Aim for a balanced layer.
- After baking, let the bread cool for a minute or two. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Cheesy garlic bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while it’s warm and gooey. Serve it immediately after resting for the best experience. Instructions for how to reheat the cheesy bread are below, if you can’t get to it while it’s fresh out of the oven.
How to Store Cheesy Garlic Bread
To store leftover cheesy garlic bread, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!
To reheat: Sprinkle the bread with about a tablespoon of water and wrap in foil. Bake at 300º F for 5-10 minutes.
Ways to Adjust Your Cheesy Garlic Bread
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
- Switch up the cheese: Try using cheddar, gouda, or any cheese you love for a different flavor profile.
- Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist!
Now you’re ready to indulge in some delightful cheesy garlic bread that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious! Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a side to your favorite meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking! 🍞🧄🧀
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Small mixing bowl
- Knife or rubber spatula (for spreading)
- Parchment paper (for easy clean-up)
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 3-4 cloves roasted garlic minced or 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- Fresh parsley optional, plus more for garnish
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread
- A drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic (or garlic powder), mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re using dried Italian herbs, add them here too!
- Spread the cheesy garlic mixture evenly on the cut sides of the bread. For extra flavor, drizzle a little olive oil on top. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Optional: For a crispier finish, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Notes
Garnish: For added freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving.
Storage: Leftover cheesy garlic bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a toaster oven or regular oven until warmed through.
Customization: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked bacon for a delicious twist!
