This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. Made with a crispy baguette, buttery garlic spread, and melted cheese, it’s simple and absolutely delicious.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Baking sheet or tray
- Mixing bowl (for garlic butter mixture)
- Spoon or spatula (to spread butter and cheese)
- Knife (for slicing bread)
- Aluminum foil (optional, for covering bread while baking)
- Oven mitts (for handling hot bread)
Ingredients
- 1 baguette or French bread loaf
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette or French bread in half lengthwise. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Spread
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic (or garlic powder), and dried parsley. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Spread the Garlic Butter
Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the garlic butter. If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes on top.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy top, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice into pieces and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly minced garlic for a stronger flavor, or adjust the garlic powder to taste.
- Add a blend of cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra flavor variety.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cheesy garlic bread with soups, salads, or pasta dishes for a complete meal. It also makes a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or parties.
Enjoy this quick and cheesy garlic bread that everyone will love!
Pro Tips
- Use fresh garlic or high-quality garlic powder for the best flavor.
- Soften butter before mixing to make spreading easier.
- Don’t overload the bread with cheese to avoid sogginess.
- Toast bread lightly before adding toppings for extra crispiness.
- Cover with foil while baking first, then uncover to brown the cheese.
Variations
- Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.
- Add cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
- Make it vegan by using dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen garlic bread?
Yes, but fresh bread gives better texture and flavor. - How long to bake?
Usually 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until cheese melts and bread is golden. - Can I prepare ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready. - What bread works best?
French baguette, Italian bread, or sourdough are great choices.
Fit-Your-Diet Adjustments
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread.
- Low-Fat: Use light butter and reduced-fat cheese.
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter and vegan cheese.
- Keto/Low-Carb: Use low-carb bread alternatives or cloud bread.