Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

Cheesy garlic bread is one of those things I don’t really plan to make — it just kind of happens. Usually it starts with a loaf of bread that needs using and ends with something warm and bubbling coming out of the oven. I make this when dinner feels like it needs a little extra comfort or when pasta night feels incomplete without it. It’s simple, familiar, and exactly what you want it to be.

Cheesy garlic bread is one of those things I don’t really plan to make — it just kind of happens. Usually it starts with a loaf of bread that needs using and ends with something warm and bubbling coming out of the oven. I make this when dinner feels like it needs a little extra comfort or when pasta night feels incomplete without it. It’s simple, familiar, and exactly what you want it to be.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Outside: Golden edges with a soft center
• Cheesy and Savory: Comforting without being overwhelming
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry and fridge staples
• Quick to Make: Oven does most of the work
• Perfect Side Dish: Works with many meals
• Crowd Friendly: Easy to share
• Customizable: Adjust garlic and cheese easily

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use Softened Butter: Spreads evenly
• Grate Cheese Fresh: Melts better
• Don’t Overload the Bread: Prevents sogginess
• Bake on the Middle Rack: Even browning
• Finish with a Broil: Optional for extra color

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. Baking Sheet: Supports the bread evenly
2. Parchment Paper: Easy cleanup
3. Small Bowl: Mixing garlic butter
4. Knife: Slicing bread
5. Grater: Fresh cheese matters

Ingredients in This Recipe

1. Bread: French or Italian loaf with a sturdy crust
2. Unsalted Butter: Rich base for the spread
3. Garlic: Freshly minced for bold flavor
4. Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and mild
5. Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty depth
6. Olive Oil: Optional richness
7. Salt: Enhances everything
8. Black Pepper: Gentle warmth
9. Fresh Parsley: Optional fresh finish

Ingredient Substitutions

• Bread Swap: Ciabatta or sourdough
• Butter Option: Plant-based butter
• Cheese Alternative: Provolone or Monterey Jack
• Garlic Option: Roasted garlic for milder flavor
• Herb Swap: Basil or oregano

Ingredient Spotlight

• Garlic: Brings aroma and savory depth
• Cheese Blend: Balances melt and flavor

Cheesy Garlic Bread

This cheesy garlic bread combines slices of baguette or bread topped with a blend of butter, garlic, and cheese, then baked until golden and melted. The final dish features crispy edges, gooey cheese, and fragrant garlic aromas, with a soft interior that is perfect for sharing.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• Bread: French or Italian loaf with a sturdy crust
• Unsalted Butter: Rich base for the spread
• Garlic: Freshly minced for bold flavor
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and mild
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty depth
• Olive Oil: Optional richness
• Salt: Enhances everything
• Black Pepper: Gentle warmth
• Fresh Parsley: Optional fresh finish

Equipment

• Baking Sheet: Supports the bread evenly
• Parchment Paper: Easy cleanup
• Small Bowl: Mixing garlic butter
• Knife: Slicing bread
• Grater: Fresh cheese matters

Method

 

1. Preheat Oven: Prepare baking sheet
2. Slice Bread: Lengthwise or into pieces
3. Mix Garlic Butter: Combine butter, garlic, salt, and pepper
4. Spread Evenly: Cover the bread surface
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle evenly on top
6. Bake: Until cheese melts and bread crisps
7. Broil Briefly: Optional for golden top
8. Garnish: Add parsley if desired
9. Serve Warm: Best fresh

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate
• Bake Fresh: Best texture hot
• Refrigerate Leftovers: Up to 2 days
• Reheat in Oven: Restores crispness

How to Serve This Dish

• With Pasta: Classic pairing
• With Soup: Perfect dunking bread
• As an Appetizer: Slice into strips

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Cheesy Croutons: Cube and toast
• Garlic Bread Sandwiches: Fill with veggies
• Breadstick Style: Slice thin and reheat
• Pasta Topping: Tear and sprinkle

Additional Tips

• Add Red Pepper Flakes: Light heat
• Brush with Olive Oil: Extra crisp
• Use Fresh Herbs: Bright finish

Make It a Showstopper

• Golden Cheese Top: Let it bubble and brown
• Clean Slices: Sharp knife helps
• Serve Straight from the Pan: Warm and inviting

Variations to Try

• Cheesy Garlic Bread with Herbs: Italian seasoning
• Roasted Garlic Version: Sweeter flavor
• Extra Cheesy Bread: Add mozzarella layers
• Vegan Garlic Bread: Dairy-free swaps
• Garlic Bread Pizza: Add sauce and toppings

FAQ’s

1. What bread works best: French or Italian loaf
2. Can I make this ahead: Yes assemble early
3. Does it reheat well: Best in the oven
4. Can I freeze garlic bread: Yes before baking
5. Is fresh garlic required: Recommended
6. Can I skip parmesan: Yes optional
7. How do I make it crispier: Broil briefly
8. Is this kid friendly: Yes
9. Can I add meat: Bacon bits work well
10. How long does it keep: Up to 2 days refrigerated

Olivia

Hi, I’m Olivia Chen-Williams, a professional chef, cooking instructor, and the founder of Turn Around At 50. For nearly three decades, my life has revolved around kitchens. Not the quiet, romantic kind, but the real ones. Hot, loud, demanding, and deeply alive.