Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy garlic bread is the perfect combination of savory garlic, rich butter, and melted cheese. It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients, and the result is a warm, indulgent treat that everyone will love. The mozzarella melts beautifully, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, tangy note, making each bite an unforgettable experience. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance out the richness. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this bread is comfort food at its best!

Ingredients

1 loaf French bread or baguette
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Highlights:

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the bread its signature savory, aromatic flavor that’s impossible to resist.
Mozzarella and Parmesan: These cheeses create a perfect melty texture, with mozzarella giving a gooey pull and Parmesan providing a sharp, nutty flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a vibrant green color and fresh, herby note that lightens the richness of the cheese and butter.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Slice the Bread: Cut the loaf of French bread or baguette in half lengthwise, creating two long pieces. You can also slice it into individual pieces if you prefer.
Spread the Garlic Butter: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread, ensuring that the garlic is well-distributed.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the buttered bread. Press the cheese down lightly to help it stick.
Bake: Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once the cheesy garlic bread is out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm with your favorite dishes and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Cheese Variations: You can mix in other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for different flavors. A blend of cheeses can add more depth to the garlic bread.
Spicy Garlic Bread: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
Herbed Garlic Bread: Experiment with adding other fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or basil, to the butter mixture for additional flavor.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter and vegan cheese for a plant-based option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover cheesy garlic bread can be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for 1-2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is warm and the bread is crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bread in advance by spreading the garlic butter and cheese on the bread, then wrapping it tightly in foil and refrigerating it. When ready to serve, bake it as directed.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any bread you like! A baguette is ideal for garlic bread, but ciabatta, sourdough, or any crusty bread will work wonderfully too.

Can I make this bread without cheese?

Yes, you can make garlic bread without cheese for a lighter option. Simply spread the garlic butter on the bread and toast it in the oven until golden and crispy.

Can I freeze cheesy garlic bread?

Yes, you can freeze cheesy garlic bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to bake, you can cook it from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How can I make the garlic bread more flavorful?

For a richer flavor, add a little bit of Parmesan to the garlic butter mixture itself, or drizzle the bread with a bit of olive oil before baking. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread is a simple, indulgent treat that adds the perfect cheesy, garlicky touch to any meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a warm, crispy loaf that’s full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re pairing it with pasta, serving it as a snack, or enjoying it as a side dish, this cheesy garlic bread is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. Don’t forget to garnish it with fresh parsley for a beautiful finishing touch!