Highlight
This cheesy garlic bread is life-changing buttery garlicky cheesy and crispy without being heavy It’s perfect for pairing with pasta soups or simply enjoying on its own
I first made this on a busy weeknight to accompany spaghetti and it instantly became a family favorite My kids ask for it every time we have pasta now
Gather Your Ingredients
- One loaf of French or Italian bread: about 14 ounces — the sturdy crust holds up well and the soft inside soaks up the garlic butter
- Half a cup salted butter softened: provides rich creaminess and perfect spreadability
- Three to four cloves of garlic minced or one tablespoon garlic powder: fresh garlic offers vibrant flavor while powder is a pantry-friendly alternative
- One teaspoon Italian seasoning optional: adds a herbal note that complements the cheese
- One cup shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for a gooey texture
- Half a cup grated Parmesan cheese: sharpens the flavor and adds a salty bite
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish: brightens the dish and adds color
- Salt and pepper to taste: essential seasoning to balance flavors
How to Make It
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius
- Slice Bread:
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise and arrange both halves with the cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Make Garlic Butter:
- In a mixing bowl combine the softened butter with minced garlic Italian seasoning salt and pepper Mix thoroughly until fully blended to create the garlic butter mixture
- Spread Butter:
- Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over both bread halves Make sure to cover every inch especially the edges for maximum flavor penetration
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered bread portions covering them completely for a cheesy topping
- Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly For an extra golden crispy top switch the oven to broil for an additional one to two minutes but watch carefully so it does not burn
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top Slice the bread into serving pieces Serve warm and enjoy
I love how the blend of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a cheesy harmony while the butter and garlic soak into every crumb I remember making this for a family movie night and everyone was thrilled to have warm cheesy bread within easy reach It’s become my go to crowd-pleaser every time
Flavor Boosters
Serve alongside rich tomato pasta dishes like spaghetti bolognese or creamy soups such as tomato bisque It also pairs beautifully with salads for a lighter meal A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes elevates the flavor profile
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside rich tomato pasta dishes like spaghetti bolognese or creamy soups such as tomato bisque It also pairs beautifully with salads for a lighter meal A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes elevates the flavor profile
Creative Twists
Add fresh herbs from your garden in spring and summer such as basil or oregano for a bright fresh note Mix in roasted seasonal vegetables or sun-dried tomatoes before baking for extra texture and flavor During winter try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to warm things up
Use a mix of cheeses for both meltiness and flavor complexity Fresh garlic always beats the powder if you have the time to prep it
Common Questions About the Recipe
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
French or Italian loaves, about 14 ounces, provide the perfect texture and absorb the garlic butter well.
- → Can I prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance?
Yes, the garlic butter can be mixed ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- → How do I achieve a crispy cheese topping?
Bake at 400°F and then broil for 1-2 minutes at the end to get a bubbly, golden cheese crust.
- → Are there alternative cheeses to use?
Cheddar or Gouda can be used instead of mozzarella or Parmesan for different flavor twists.
- → How can I add a spicy kick to this bread?
Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cheese topping before baking to introduce some heat.