This Garlic Cheese Bread recipe is incredibly easy and requires only a few simple ingredients. It comes together in just minutes and bakes up golden, gooey, and irresistible. You can customize the cheese, adjust the garlic to your liking, or even add extra toppings. It’s perfect for pairing with pasta, soups, or even serving as a standalone snack. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
French bread or Italian bread unsalted butter, softened fresh garlic cloves, minced garlic powder (optional) parsley (fresh or dried) mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded parmesan cheese, grated salt (to taste)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the bread in half lengthwise to create two flat halves.
In a bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, garlic powder (if using), salt, and parsley.
Spread the garlic butter evenly over both bread halves.
Sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For extra crispiness and golden edges, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 people as a side dish. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 12 minutes Total time: 22 minutes
Variations
Spicy Cheese Bread: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Herb Infused: Mix in Italian seasoning or fresh basil with the garlic butter.
Four Cheese Version: Add provolone or fontina along with the other cheeses.
Stuffed Cheese Bread: Layer the cheese between slices in a baguette and wrap in foil before baking.
Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free bread for the same delicious result.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover garlic cheese bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and the bread is warmed through. You can also reheat slices in an air fryer or toaster oven for a quick crisp finish. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
What type of bread works best for garlic cheese bread?
French bread, Italian bread, or any crusty loaf with a soft interior works best. It holds the garlic butter and cheese without becoming too soft.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a creamier texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Make sure not to overdo the butter and bake at a high enough temperature to crisp the bread edges.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the bread with garlic butter and cheese, then wrap and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
What kind of cheese melts best?
Mozzarella provides the best stretch, while cheddar adds sharp flavor. A blend is ideal for taste and texture.
Can I freeze garlic cheese bread?
Yes. After assembling, wrap tightly and freeze unbaked. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.
How much garlic should I use?
It depends on your taste. Typically, 2–4 cloves of fresh garlic per loaf give a strong but not overpowering flavor.
Can I use garlic paste instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, garlic paste can be used for convenience. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Is it necessary to broil at the end?
Broiling gives the cheese a bubbly, golden top, but it’s optional. Just watch carefully to avoid burning.
Can I add meat or vegetables?
Absolutely. sautéed mushrooms, or chopped olives make great additions.
Conclusion
Garlic Cheese Bread is a deliciously indulgent dish that’s quick to prepare and impossible to resist. With its crisp edges, buttery garlic flavor, and melted cheese topping, it’s a versatile side or appetizer that complements any meal. Whether you keep it classic or try a tasty variation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Garlic Cheese Bread is a savory, cheesy comfort food made with crusty bread, garlic butter, and melted cheeses. It’s the perfect side dish, appetizer, or snack that’s quick to make and always a hit.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:12 minutes
Total Time:22 minutes
Yield:6–8 servings
Category:Appetizer
Method:Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 loaf French or Italian bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1–2 tbsp parsley (fresh or dried)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the bread in half lengthwise to create two flat halves.
In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder (if using), salt, and parsley.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both bread halves.
Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Place the bread halves on a baking sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For golden, crispy edges, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
Remove from oven, let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.Use a crusty bread like French or Italian for best texture.Broiling is optional but adds a nice golden finish.You can prepare the bread ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or use an air fryer.Try adding red pepper flakes or herbs for extra flavor.
