Name: Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread or French bread; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Introduction

Easy Cheesy Bread is a comforting and flavorful treat that’s perfect as a snack or a side for any meal. With a buttery garlic spread and melted cheese on crusty bread, it’s simple to make yet irresistibly delicious.

A golden brown loaf of bread with a crispy top layer covered in melted, bubbly cheese, slightly browned and textured with small sprigs of green herbs scattered on top. The middle layer shows stretchy, gooey white cheese oozing out, creating a soft and creamy texture that flows down the side of the bread. The bottom layer is the soft, airy bread with a light interior visible where the cheese is stretching. The loaf rests on parchment paper on a wooden board, against a white marbled texture background, with some fresh herb sprigs around. In the background, there is a small lit candle in a white holder. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread or French bread
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the garlic butter spread. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 3: Carefully slice the loaf of bread lengthwise into two long halves using a serrated bread knife.
Step 4: (Optional) Make shallow diagonal cuts across the cut surfaces of each bread half without slicing all the way through.
Step 5: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both cut sides of the bread halves.
Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the garlic butter on both halves.
Step 7: Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella.
Step 8: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the bread edges turn golden brown.
Step 9: (Optional) For a crispier, golden top, broil the bread for 1–2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 10: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 11: Slice into individual portions and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar or provolone for varied flavor.
For extra richness, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
Try adding cooked bacon bits or sliced olives on top before baking.
If you prefer a softer crust, wrap the bread in foil while baking.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or until warmed through to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

A golden-brown baked cheese bread loaf with a shiny, bubbly, slightly crisp top layer speckled with fresh green herbs, sitting on a wooden board with parchment paper underneath. The bread is pulled open at the front, showing a thick, creamy, stretchy white cheese layer flowing out, contrasting with the light, airy bread texture inside. Fresh rosemary sprigs lie scattered around the loaf, adding a fresh green touch. A small lit candle in a white holder can be seen softly glowing in the blurred background on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bread for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh bread for the best texture and flavor, but you can use thawed frozen bread if necessary. Toast it lightly before adding the toppings for better results.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheese varieties. Adjust flavors as needed to maintain the garlic and herb richness.