Cheesy Garlic Bread Loaf

Cheesy Garlic Bread is my go to whenever I want to impress guests or just soak up a bowl of soup with something truly irresistible. Golden edges gooey cheese and that garlicky aroma filling the kitchen every time I make this I know plates will be empty in seconds. It is comfort food at its uncomplicated best.

It became my party starter tradition after my friends devoured the very first loaf I brought to a potluck. There has never been a crumb left behind ever since.

Gather Your Ingredients

• French bread: one large loaf is ideal for its crisp crust and fluffy inside choose a loaf that feels hefty with a good crackle
• Unsalted butter: gives a rich base for the garlic flavor use the real thing and let it soften for smooth spreading
• Garlic cloves: freshly minced for big flavor pick plump cloves with tight skins
• Fresh parsley: adds color and a fresh herby kick look for bright green leaves discard any limp or yellowed ones
• Mozzarella cheese: brings that signature stretch and softness buy a block and shred for best melt
• Parmesan cheese: provides nutty salty notes always opt for real Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
• Paprika: adds gentle warmth smoky or sweet styles both work
• Chili flakes: are optional for heat use to taste
• Dried basil: a subtle hint of herby background choose a fragrant batch not faded or dusty looking

How to Make It

Prepare the Bread:

Slice the French bread in half lengthwise ensuring you do not cut all the way through if you want pull apart slices later or cut completely through for individual strips. Lay bread cut side up on a parchmentlined baking sheet to make cleanup easy.

Make the Garlic Butter:

In a mixing bowl thoroughly combine softened butter minced garlic one tablespoon chopped parsley paprika and a pinch of salt. Blend until creamy and all the garlic is dispersed evenly. This mixture should be very spreadable to cover every edge.

Spread the Butter:

Use a spatula or large spoon to coat the cut sides of the bread with the butter mixture. Press into the corners and right up to the edges for maximum flavor coverage.

Add Cheese and Toppings:

Generously top the buttered bread with shredded mozzarella and parmesan spreading both evenly. Sprinkle with dried basil and chili flakes if you want a kick.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the bread uncovered into a preheated 400 degree oven. Bake for about twenty minutes until the cheese is bubbling golden and starting to crisp on the edges. This ensures the ultimate cheesy crust.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove from the oven immediately scatter over the remaining chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Slice as desired and serve while hot and melty. The bread pulls apart with beautiful cheesy strings.

Such a crowd pleaser I always double the recipe for parties because someone always wants seconds or to take leftovers home. Garlic bread is my younger brothers favorite and he requests it every time he visits.

Flavor Boosters

Cheesy Garlic Bread tastes best hot from the oven but leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat wrapped in foil at 350 degrees until hot. This maintains moisture inside while crisping the crust.

Serving Suggestions

This bread makes any pasta night memorable. Try it with tomato soup chili or chopped into sizable croutons for hearty salads. The touch of chili flakes means it can stand up to spicier mains without being overpowered.

Creative Twists

If you cannot find French bread use ciabatta or Italian loaves with a sturdy texture. You could swap mozzarella for provolone for a stronger cheesy flavor and use vegan butter and cheese if you want a dairy free version. Swap parsley for fresh basil or chives in summer or add a sprinkle of roasted red pepper in winter. Want to make it festive Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach beneath the cheese for events or holidays.

Bright cheesy garlic bread is the ultimate party starter or comfort food side. It is amazing how quickly it disappears at every gathering.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What type of bread works best?

French bread or a similar sturdy loaf is ideal for absorbing the garlic butter and holding the cheese topping.

→ Can other cheeses be used?

Yes, try cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack to vary flavors and meltability while keeping the texture satisfying.

→ Is fresh garlic necessary?

Fresh garlic offers the best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch for convenience.

→ How to ensure the bread turns crispy?

Baking uncovered at a high temperature helps the crust crisp up while the cheese becomes bubbly and golden.

→ Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Prepare and assemble in advance, then bake just before serving to keep the bread fresh and cheese melty.