Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
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
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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Apply Butter Mixture: Spoon and spread the garlic butter evenly onto the cut surface of each bread half, ensuring coverage from edge to edge.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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