Cheesy Garlic Bread

Cheesy Garlic Bread is a savory, golden-baked delight that combines the rich flavor of garlic butter with gooey melted cheese atop crisp, toasty bread. It’s the perfect side for pasta, soups, or a stand-alone appetizer that’s always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Gooey, melted cheese on top of crisp, buttery bread
• Packed with bold garlic flavor
• Customizable with your favorite herbs and cheeses
• Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish
• Crowd-pleasing and family-friendly
• Can be made ahead and reheated
• Freezer-friendly for future meals
• Pairs with almost anything—pasta, salad, soup
• Comfort food at its finest

Ingredients

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

• French bread or Italian loaf
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Garlic cloves, minced (or garlic powder)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt (optional)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, basil

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise and place both halves cut-side up on the baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix softened butter with garlic and parsley. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
4. Spread the garlic butter evenly over both halves of the bread.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the buttered bread. Top with Parmesan.
6. Optional: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or dried herbs for extra flavor.
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
8. Broil for 1–2 minutes for golden, crispy cheese edges (watch closely to prevent burning).
9. Slice into pieces and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 12–15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese blend: Use a mix of cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavors
• Add bacon: Sprinkle cooked crumbled bacon over the cheese before baking
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or chili flakes
• Use garlic confit: For a milder, sweeter garlic flavor
• Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes until warmed through and crispy
• Freezing: Freeze before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to bake time

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder?

Yes, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch—about ½ teaspoon per clove.

What bread works best?

French bread, Italian loaf, ciabatta, or any sturdy bread with a crusty exterior works well.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Assemble the bread and store in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

Can I use a toaster oven?

Absolutely—just adjust the cooking time based on the size and temperature of your toaster oven.

Is it better to use salted or unsalted butter?

Unsalted lets you control the seasoning, but either works depending on your taste preference.

Can I make it without cheese?

Yes—just follow the same method and omit the cheese for classic garlic bread.

Can I add fresh herbs?

Definitely—try basil, chives, thyme, or rosemary for extra freshness.

What cheese melts best?

Mozzarella is ideal for meltiness, but adding Parmesan brings a sharp, savory bite.

What goes well with cheesy garlic bread?

Pasta dishes, soups (like tomato or broccoli cheddar), salads, or even grilled meats.

Can I use sliced bread?

Yes, it works in a pinch—just watch carefully so it doesn’t over-toast.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Bread is an irresistible, easy-to-make side dish or appetizer that adds warmth and flavor to any meal. With crispy edges, melted cheese, and rich garlic butter, it’s everything you want in comfort food. Whether served with pasta or on its own, this classic recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Print