Cheesy Garlic Bread Baked to Perfection Recipe
Introduction
Cheesy bread is a quick and easy crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with any meal or stands alone as a tasty snack. This ultimate recipe guide shows you how to make a warm, garlicky, and gooey cheesy bread that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread, French bread, or sourdough bread
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the garlic butter by combining the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Mix well and taste to adjust seasonings if needed.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 3: Slice the bread lengthwise into two halves.
- Step 4 (Optional): Make shallow diagonal cuts across the cut sides of each bread half to help the butter and cheese penetrate better.
- Step 5: Generously spread the garlic butter over the cut sides of both bread halves.
- Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over both halves, then add the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Step 7 (Optional): Add any desired toppings such as sliced tomatoes, olives, or pepperoni for extra flavor.
- Step 8: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Step 9 (Optional): For extra browning, broil the bread for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Step 10: Allow the cheesy bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- For extra crispiness, toast the bread lightly before adding the garlic butter and cheese.
- Add finely chopped cooked bacon or herbs like rosemary for a savory twist.
- If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, sauté the garlic lightly in butter before mixing it with the rest of the ingredients.
Storage
Store leftover cheesy bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with foil. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispness and melt the cheese again.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-sliced garlic or garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, pre-sliced garlic or garlic powder can be substituted. Adjust the quantity to your taste, keeping in mind that fresh garlic provides a stronger flavor and texture.
What type of bread works best for cheesy bread?
Italian, French, or sourdough bread are ideal because they have a sturdy crust and soft interior that hold the toppings well. Avoid very soft or thin breads that may become soggy.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread Baked to Perfection Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This quick and easy cheesy bread recipe features a flavorful garlic butter spread topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or side, this recipe uses Italian, French, or sourdough bread for a crispy, cheesy delight.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread, French bread, or sourdough bread
Garlic Butter Spread
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional
- Red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat
- Sliced tomatoes, olives, pepperoni, or other desired toppings
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and taste to adjust seasonings as needed to your preference.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat before baking the bread.
- Slice Bread: Take the loaf and slice it lengthwise into two equal halves to create flat surfaces for the topping.
- Score Bread (Optional): To enhance flavor penetration, make shallow diagonal cuts across the cut sides of each bread half without cutting all the way through.
- Spread Garlic Butter: Generously spread the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of both bread halves to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over both bread halves, then top with grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy finish.
- Optional Toppings: Add any additional desired toppings such as sliced tomatoes, olives, pepperoni, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Broil (Optional): For an extra golden and bubbly crust, broil the bread for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- You can use any type of crusty bread, but Italian, French, or sourdough work best for structure and flavor.
- Adjust the garlic amount based on your preference for garlickiness.
- Customize toppings to your liking, such as adding cooked bacon, herbs, or different cheeses.
- For a spicier kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking.
- The bread is best served fresh and warm but can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: cheesy bread, garlic bread, easy appetizer, baked cheese bread, mozzarella, Parmesan, quick recipe
