Description
This Cheesy Garlic Bread recipe features a crispy, buttery garlic base topped with bubbly mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for an easy appetizer or side dish, this Italian-American classic is quick to prepare and sure to please any crowd with its savory flavor and melty texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread Base
- 1 loaf French or Italian bread (cut in half lengthwise)
Garlic Butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cheese Topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnish
- Red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley (or dried), and salt until the mixture is smooth and uniformly blended.
- Apply Garlic Butter: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of both bread halves, covering the bread generously to ensure full flavor in every bite.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the buttered bread, then top with grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor and appealing crust.
- Optional Seasoning: If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning over the cheese to add a spicy or herbal note to the bread.
- Bake the Bread: Place the prepared bread halves onto the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and begins to bubble.
- Broil for Crispiness: For an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil on high and broil the bread for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning, as broiling works quickly.
- Serve: Remove the cheesy garlic bread from the oven, allow it to cool slightly, slice into 8 pieces, and serve warm for the best taste and texture experience.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or provolone for added flavor variations.
- For softer bread, wrap the bread in foil before baking to retain moisture.
- This bread pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce or your favorite soup for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
