Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe: Homemade & Easy

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh, warm, cheesy garlic bread straight from the oven. This homemade recipe takes the classic side dish to the next level, with buttery, garlicky goodness topped with gooey mozzarella and savory Parmesan. Perfect for serving alongside pasta, soups, or salads, this cheesy garlic bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, and you don’t need to be a professional baker to achieve crispy, cheesy perfection.

Using simple ingredients like French bread or Italian baguette, you’ll have this delicious side dish ready in no time. With the richness of butter, the boldness of garlic, and the melted cheese, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy all your cravings. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this cheesy garlic bread will be the perfect addition. Let’s dive into how to make this incredibly simple yet incredibly delicious homemade cheesy garlic bread!

this RECIPE

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick & Easy

This cheesy garlic bread comes together in just 15 minutes! With minimal prep and no complicated steps, it’s perfect for when you want something delicious without a lot of effort.

2. Cheesy Goodness

The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses creates a gooey, melty texture with a savory, umami flavor that will have everyone reaching for more.

3. Flavor-Packed

The garlic butter spread adds a rich and aromatic flavor to the bread, perfectly complementing the cheese and making each bite irresistibly tasty.

4. Customizable

You can adjust the cheese amounts or add extra seasonings like oregano, red pepper flakes, or Italian herbs to make this garlic bread your own.

5. Perfect Side Dish

Cheesy garlic bread is a fantastic side for pasta, soup, salad, or even a simple meal of roasted vegetables. It’s versatile enough to go with nearly any main course.

Ingredients

• French bread or Italian baguette
• Butter (softened)
• Garlic (minced)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Variations

• Extra Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more mozzarella or even try other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or provolone for extra flavor.
• Herbed Garlic Bread: Add dried oregano, thyme, or basil to the garlic butter mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
• Spicy Garlic Bread: For a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the buttered bread before baking.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this garlic bread vegan-friendly.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Slice your French bread or Italian baguette in half lengthwise. You can also slice it into individual pieces if you prefer smaller portions. Place the bread halves (cut side up) on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you like, add some fresh or dried parsley for extra flavor and color.

Step 4: Spread the Garlic Butter

Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure to cover the surface generously for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Top the garlic butter with shredded mozzarella cheese, spreading it evenly over the bread. Then, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

Step 6: Bake

Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden and crispy.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheesy garlic bread is baked, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Slice it into individual pieces and serve warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened before mixing it with the garlic for easy spreading. You can leave it out for about 30 minutes or microwave it for a few seconds (but don’t melt it completely).
• Add More Garlic: For an extra garlicky punch, increase the amount of minced garlic in the butter mixture.
• Check the Bread: Keep an eye on the bread while it’s baking to prevent it from getting too crispy or burnt. If the edges start to brown too quickly, you can cover the bread with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
• Customize with Toppings: Feel free to top your cheesy garlic bread with fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or even a drizzle of olive oil before baking for extra richness.

How to Serve

Serve this cheesy garlic bread as a side to your favorite pasta, a warm bowl of soup, or alongside a fresh salad. It also pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a stand-alone appetizer for parties and gatherings. For a simple meal, enjoy it with a side of roasted vegetables or a hearty dip.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cheesy garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to keep the crust crispy.

Freezing

You can freeze cheesy garlic bread for up to 2 months. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Reheating

To reheat leftover cheesy garlic bread, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the bread is warm. You can also microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds, but this may result in a less crispy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of bread?

Yes! You can use baguette, ciabatta, or even a thick slice of sourdough for this recipe. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up to the garlic butter and cheese.

2. Can I make this garlic bread without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese for a simple garlic bread option. The garlic butter will still provide plenty of flavor.

3. Can I make this garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter and bread slices ahead of time, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.

4. Can I use pre-minced garlic?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, pre-minced garlic works in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor may not be as robust as fresh garlic.

5. How can I make the garlic butter even richer?

You can add a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit of cream cheese to the garlic butter mixture to make it extra rich and creamy.

6. Can I freeze cheesy garlic bread?

Yes, you can freeze the garlic bread before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer.

7. Can I add more spices to the garlic butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to add dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or basil for more depth of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add some heat.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to swap the mozzarella for another cheese, like cheddar, Gouda, or provolone, depending on your taste preferences.

9. How do I make the bread extra crispy?

To get a crispier crust, toast the bread under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

10. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

You can use garlic powder in place of fresh garlic if necessary. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic in the recipe.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Garlic Bread is the ultimate indulgent side dish, with buttery, garlicky bread loaded with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s easy to make, quick to bake, and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes this recipe a family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy it hot, straight out of the oven, and savor every cheesy, garlicky bite!

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