Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread

Description

This cheesy garlic bread is the ultimate comfort food side dish. It has a buttery garlic spread infused with herbs, topped with a melty blend of cheeses, and baked until bubbly and golden brown. Perfect as an appetizer, with pasta, or alongside soups and stews.

Ingredients

• 1 large French bread loaf (or Italian bread, about 16–18 inches)

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 ½ tsp garlic paste)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

• ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)

• Salt, to taste

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness)

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

 Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

   • Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

2. Prepare Garlic Butter

   • In a bowl, mix softened butter, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

3. Slice Bread

   • Cut the French bread loaf in half lengthwise. Place both halves cut-side up on the baking sheet.

4. Spread Mixture

   • Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over both bread halves. Make sure to get it into the edges for maximum flavor.

5. Add Cheese

   • Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the bread. Top with Parmesan.

6. Bake

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

   • For a golden, crispy top, switch to broil mode for the last 1–2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

7. Serve

   • Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then slice into thick pieces. Serve warm and gooey!

Notes & Tips

• Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor and texture.

• Fresh garlic gives a stronger taste, but roasted garlic makes it sweeter.

• Add cooked crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist.

• Great for dipping in marinara sauce or creamy ranch.

 Servings

Makes 6–8 servings (about 12 slices).

 Nutritional Info (per slice, approx.)

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 8g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbs: 20g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 310mg

 Benefits

• Quick and easy crowd-pleaser.

• Customizable with herbs, spices, or extra toppings.

• Pairs perfectly with Italian dinners, BBQs, or as a party snack.

Q/A

Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bread with butter and cheese, wrap in foil, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze cheesy garlic bread?
Yes – freeze after spreading butter and cheese. Bake directly from frozen (add 5–7 minutes).

Q: Which bread works best?
A large French or Italian loaf works best, but you can also use baguette slices for mini versions.