This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread is loaded with garlic butter, mozzarella, and Parmesan, and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s an easy side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, and salads.
This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread is a warm, savory side dish that combines garlic butter and melted cheese on a toasted loaf. It’s quick to make and perfect for any meal!
INGREDIENTS
- For the Garlic Bread:
- French or Italian bread: 1 loaf, halved lengthwise, forms the base for the garlic bread.
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened, used to make the garlic butter spread.
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced, adds a bold garlic flavor.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, melts to a gooey, cheesy layer.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup, for a hint of sharp, nutty flavor.
- Fresh parsley (optional): 1 tablespoon, chopped, adds color and freshness.
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon, for extra herb flavor.
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, adds mild spice.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Pinch, for a subtle heat.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, dried oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to create a garlic butter spread.
- Step 2: Assemble the Bread
- Place the halved bread, cut side up, on a baking sheet.
- Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over each half of the bread.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each half, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add chopped parsley on top for color and flavor, if desired.
- Step 3: Bake
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Step 4: Serve
- Remove from the oven, slice into pieces, and serve warm.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the garlic bread warm alongside pasta, soup, or as an appetizer for a delicious pairing.
- For any leftovers, wrap the bread in foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
Helpful Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of Italian seasoning on top of the cheese before baking.
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, use garlic powder in addition to minced garlic in the butter spread.
- Swap mozzarella with a cheese blend for a different cheesy flavor profile.
Tips from Well-known Chefs
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests brushing a thin layer of olive oil on the bread before adding the butter for a crispier texture.
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using freshly grated Parmesan for a sharper, fresher taste in every bite.
- Chef Bobby Flay advises baking the garlic bread on a pizza stone for an extra crispy base.