Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Garlic Bread is a classic crowd-pleaser that combines crispy, buttery bread with melted cheese and fragrant garlic. Perfect as a snack or side, this recipe is easy to prepare and always satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 large loaf of French bread, 12 oz
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped finely
• 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan, shredded
• 1/8 tsp paprika
• 1/8 tsp chili flakes, optional
• 1/8 tsp dried basil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place the French bread cut side up on the baking sheet.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of parsley, paprika, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Step 3: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture from edge to edge on both sides of the bread.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the bread. Then, sprinkle dried basil and chili flakes on top according to your taste.
5. Step 5: Bake the bread uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven, slice, and sprinkle with the remaining fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• To make it gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free bread loaf.
• Brush the bread with garlic butter twice for an extra garlicky kick.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and shred the cheese ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest results.

What can I use instead of fresh parsley?

Dried parsley works as a substitute, but use it sparingly as it is more concentrated in flavor. Fresh herbs give the best bright finish.

Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

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This Cheesy Garlic Bread recipe combines a crusty French bread loaf with a rich garlic butter spread, melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, and a hint of herbs and spices. Baked until golden and bubbly, it makes the perfect savory appetizer or side dish for any meal.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread

• 1 large loaf of French bread, 12 oz

Garlic Butter Spread

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped finely (divided: 1 tbsp for butter spread, 1 tbsp for garnish)
• 1/8 tsp paprika
• 1/8 tsp salt

Cheese & Seasoning

• 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan, shredded
• 1/8 tsp dried basil
• 1/8 tsp chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Bread: Slice the French bread loaf lengthwise with the cut side facing up. Place the halves on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring space for even cooking.
3. Make Garlic Butter Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley, paprika, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
4. Apply Butter Mixture: Spoon and spread the garlic butter evenly onto the cut surface of each bread half, ensuring coverage from edge to edge.
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheeses over the buttered bread. Then, add a light sprinkle of dried basil and chili flakes (if using) on top of the cheese.
6. Bake: Place the prepared baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes. Bake until the cheese is fully melted, golden, and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven. Slice it into individual servings and sprinkle the remaining fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately while warm for best taste and texture.

Notes

• Use fresh garlic for best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
• Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or thyme to customize the flavor.
• For extra crispiness, broil the bread for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
• Adding chili flakes is optional and can be adjusted based on preferred spice level.

Keywords: cheesy garlic bread, garlic bread recipe, baked garlic bread, mozzarella parmesan bread, easy appetizer, side dish