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Cheesy Garlic Bread

Cheesy Garlic Bread

Cheesy Garlic Bread is a delicious and comforting appetizer featuring crusty bread topped with flavorful garlic butter and a gooey blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked to golden perfection with a crispy crust and melty, savory center. Perfect for snacks, sides, or party appetizers, with options to customize cheeses, herbs, or make a vegan version.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 1 crusty baguette or Italian bread (about 12 inches)

Garlic Butter Mixture

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 34 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Seasonings and Variations

  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper, to taste (for spicy kick)
  • Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme instead of parsley (herb variations)
  • Cheddar, provolone, or gouda to replace or add to cheese mixture
  • Dairy-free butter and vegan cheese alternatives for vegan option

Instructions

  1. Prepare the garlic butter mixture: Soften the unsalted butter and combine it with finely minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well-blended to infuse maximum flavor.
  2. Slice the bread: Cut the crusty bread into thick slices about one to two inches wide. Leave the base intact if you want a pull-apart style, or slice completely for open-faced bread.
  3. Spread the garlic butter: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on each bread slice, coating all surfaces to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
  4. Add the cheese: Layer shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top of the buttered bread slices. For extra gooeyness, pile the cheese generously.
  5. Bake to perfection: Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges turn golden brown.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle additional fresh parsley or herbs on top for a splash of color and freshness. Serve warm for best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic rather than garlic powder to ensure vibrant flavor.
  • Spread butter liberally for a crispy crust and rich taste.
  • Choose good melting cheeses like mozzarella combined with Parmesan for depth.
  • Watch the baking time closely to avoid drying out the bread; remove when cheese is melted and browned.
  • Use a baking stone or preheated baking tray for a crispier crust.
  • Wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispness and melty cheese without drying.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy garlic bread, garlic bread, appetizer, comfort food, baked cheese bread, mozzarella garlic bread