Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

Introduction

Easy Cheesy Bread is a simple and irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful garlic butter base and a luscious blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this bread guarantees a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread, or French bread
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Step 3: Using a serrated bread knife, carefully slice the loaf of bread lengthwise into two long halves.
4. Step 4: (Optional) Make shallow diagonal cuts across the surface of each half, being careful not to cut all the way through.
5. Step 5: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut surfaces of both bread halves.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the garlic butter on both halves.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.
8. Step 8: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
9. Step 9: (Optional) For an extra golden and bubbly top, broil the bread for 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
10. Step 10: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
11. Step 11: Slice into individual portions and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old bread for a firmer texture that holds up well to the garlic butter and cheese.
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a mild spicy kick.
• For a vegetarian option, ensure the Parmesan cheese is free of animal rennet.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bread for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or thawed bread. Frozen bread can become soggy and may not toast evenly.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Replace the butter with a dairy-free spread and use dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 80 reviews

This Easy Cheesy Bread recipe transforms a simple loaf of Italian or French bread into a delicious, savory treat loaded with garlic butter, fresh herbs, and shredded cheeses. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, this recipe combines the warm, melty flavors of mozzarella and Parmesan atop a golden, crispy bread base, baked to perfection in under 20 minutes.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread

• 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread or French bread

Garlic Butter

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary to suit your preference.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the bread evenly and thoroughly.
3. Slice the Bread: Using a serrated bread knife, carefully slice the loaf of bread lengthwise into two long halves, creating flat surfaces for the garlic butter and cheese layers.
4. Score the Bread (Optional): Lightly make shallow diagonal cuts across the surface of each bread half without cutting all the way through. This allows the flavors of the butter and cheese to penetrate deeper into the bread.
5. Spread Garlic Butter: Generously spread the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut surfaces of both halves of the bread, ensuring complete coverage.
6. Add Mozzarella Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the garlic butter on both bread halves, covering the surface for a melty, gooey texture.
7. Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella layer to add a sharp, savory flavor and a slightly crispy texture when baked.
8. Bake: Arrange the two bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.
9. Broil (Optional): For an extra golden and bubbly top, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch closely to prevent the bread from burning.
10. Cool and Slice: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes to let the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice.
11. Serve: Slice into individual portions and serve immediately. Optionally garnish with additional fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Notes

• Use a serrated knife to slice the bread cleanly without crushing it.
• Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preferences.
• The optional scoring step helps the garlic butter and cheese seep deeper into the bread for extra flavor.
• Keep a close eye on the bread during broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
• Serve warm for the best melty cheese experience; leftovers can be reheated in the oven.

Keywords: cheesy bread, garlic bread, mozzarella, Parmesan, baked bread, easy appetizer, Italian bread recipe, party snack