If you are looking to make a crowd-pleasing snack or side dish that is bursting with flavor and simple to prepare, look no further than this Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe. Imagine golden, crispy bread layered with velvety garlic butter and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, all baked to perfection in under 30 minutes. This recipe is the ultimate comfort food that transforms humble ingredients into an irresistible delight you will want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe is both straightforward and essential—the perfect combination of buttery richness, sharp garlic, and melty cheese come together to make every bite worthwhile.
- French or Italian bread (one loaf, about 16 inches): Use fresh bread with a sturdy crust and soft interior to hold all the savory toppings perfectly.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Butter carries the garlic flavor and adds moisture, making each slice delightfully rich.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Fresh garlic is the star aromatics that infuse the bread with a sharp, mouthwatering kick.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): This melting cheese creates the gooey, indulgent layer we crave on cheesy bread.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a nutty, salty contrast that perfectly complements the mozzarella.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional): For a pop of bright color and subtle herbaceous flair at the end.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Bread
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Slice your loaf of bread in half lengthwise so each side can be comfortably covered with the garlic butter and cheese. Placing the bread cut-side up on a baking sheet ensures even cooking and a sturdy base for toppings.
Step 2: Mix Your Garlic Butter Spread
In a small bowl, stir together the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt until thoroughly combined. This garlic butter is the heart of the bread’s flavor and will soak into the crust, keeping it tender and fragrant.
Step 3: Spread and Layer the Cheese
Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over both halves of the bread. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly so you get a gooey, melted texture with every bite. Follow up with the grated Parmesan cheese for that irresistible golden crunch and umami boost.
Step 4: Bake and Broil
Pop your prepared bread in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and molten. For an extra touch of crispness and a golden top, broil the bread for just 1 to 2 minutes—keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the top with freshly chopped parsley if you like. Let it rest for a couple of minutes so the cheese sets slightly, then slice into pieces and get ready to indulge in cheesy, garlicky goodness.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley not only brighten the appearance but add a refreshing herbal note that balances the richness. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan for garnish.
Side Dishes
This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with pasta dishes, hearty soups, or fresh salads—its rich, cheesy character complements a range of meals while adding a comforting touch to your dining table.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the bread on a wooden board with small bowls of marinara sauce or your favorite dipping oils. Cut into bite-size sliders for parties, or shape the halves into smaller portions for easy grab-and-go munching. The presentation can be as casual or elegant as you want!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread, wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container to keep the bread from drying out. Store it in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 to 3 days for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked, assembled cheesy garlic bread wrapped carefully in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it directly from frozen—just increase baking time slightly until warm and bubbly.
Reheating
To revive the crispy crust and melted cheese, reheat your leftover cheesy garlic bread in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave to maintain that wonderful texture and avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While French or Italian bread works best due to its sturdy crust and soft interior, you can experiment with sourdough or even a crusty baguette. Just keep in mind that thinner breads might bake faster and could become too crispy.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder—about 1/2 teaspoon—to mimic the flavor. Just mix it into the softened butter well.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based spread and use vegan cheeses that melt well. Keep the garlic and bread the same for that classic flavor, and you’ll have a delicious vegan-friendly cheesy garlic bread.
How spicy can I make this Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe?
For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes into your garlic butter, or sprinkle chopped jalapeños on top before baking. This adds a nice heat that balances the cheese richness perfectly.
Can I add herbs or other toppings?
Absolutely! Chopped fresh basil, oregano, or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor. You can also add cooked bacon bits, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for added personality and depth.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe is one of those beloved dishes that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s simple to prepare, packed full of comforting flavors, and versatile enough to accompany almost any meal or stand on its own as a snack. I encourage you to try this recipe and watch it become an instant favorite in your kitchen—trust me, once people taste it, they’ll be asking for seconds and the recipe too!
Print
Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cheesy Bread recipe is a perfect appetizer or quick side dish featuring a crusty loaf of French or Italian bread loaded with a flavorful garlic butter spread and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread (about 16 inches), sliced in half lengthwise
Garlic Butter Spread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- pinch of salt
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack to the middle level.
- Prepare Bread: Slice the loaf of bread lengthwise into two halves and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet, ready for topping.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Apply Butter Spread: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over both halves, then top with the grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy layer.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheeses have melted completely and are bubbly.
- Broil for Golden Finish: For a beautifully golden and slightly crisp top, switch the oven to broil and broil the bread for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, let it cool for a couple of minutes, then slice and serve warm for best taste.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses such as provolone, fontina, or asiago for extra flavor complexity.
- Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Make sure to watch the bread closely when broiling to prevent burning, as broil times can vary by oven.
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor rather than garlic powder.
