Description
Cheesy Garlic Bread is the ultimate comfort food featuring crusty French or Italian bread smothered in a savory garlic butter blend, topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a side or snack, this recipe combines classic flavors with a crispy, cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread Base
- 1 (14 oz) loaf of French or Italian bread
Garlic Butter Spread
- 1/4 cup salted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (not extra virgin)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon granulated garlic)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheese Topping
- 1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Halve the bread lengthwise to create two even pieces suitable for topping.
- Make Garlic Butter Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth garlic butter spread.
- Apply Garlic Butter and Bake Covered: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both halves of the bread. Wrap the bread tightly in foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes to let the bread absorb the flavors.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Carefully remove the bread from the oven and unwrap the foil. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the bread halves.
- Bake Uncovered to Melt Cheese: Return the bread to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5-6 minutes. For an extra crispy and golden cheese topping, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the hot cheesy bread, slice into servings, and serve warm to enjoy the perfect cheesy garlic bread experience.
Notes
- Using regular olive oil instead of extra virgin ensures a milder flavor that blends well in the garlic butter.
- Broiling time may vary depending on your oven; watch carefully to prevent burning the cheese.
- For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
- Leftover bread can be reheated wrapped in foil at 350°F for 10 minutes to regain freshness.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor but granulated garlic works as a convenient substitute.
