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Cheesy Garlic Bread

Cheesy Garlic Bread
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Cheesy Garlic Bread is a comforting, crowd-pleasing snack or side dish featuring crispy, buttery garlic bread topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for cozy nights, parties, or as a delicious accompaniment to pasta dishes, this easy-to-make recipe uses simple pantry staples to deliver a flavorful, gooey treat loved by all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 fresh baguette or Italian bread loaf (about 12 inches)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick
  • Fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano for additional herbs
  • Dairy-free butter and plant-based cheese for a vegan version
  • Alternative cheeses: fontina, cheddar, or provolone
  • Cooked crispy bacon or pancetta bits for smoky flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: Mince the fresh garlic cloves and thoroughly mix them with softened butter, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Optionally, add finely chopped parsley or basil to infuse herbal notes.
  2. Slice the Bread: Slice the fresh baguette or Italian loaf into thick pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick, to ensure it holds up to the toppings without becoming soggy.
  3. Spread the Garlic Butter Evenly: Generously slather the prepared garlic butter mixture onto each slice, covering all surfaces to ensure every bite is flavorful.
  4. Add the Cheese: Heap shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bread slices, then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added savory depth. Make sure the bread is fully covered with cheese.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the garlic buttered and cheese-topped bread slices on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starts turning golden at the edges.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and finish with a light sprinkle of fresh herbs and a pinch of coarse sea salt. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey cheesy goodness.

Notes

  • Use day-old or slightly stale fresh bread for the best texture that holds toppings without sogginess.
  • Grate your own cheese fresh for better melt and flavor compared to pre-shredded.
  • Adjust garlic quantity to your preferred intensity; more for bold flavor, less for subtle taste.
  • Bake the bread slices on a wire rack or directly on the oven rack to keep the bottom crust crisp.
  • Monitor oven closely during the last minutes to prevent cheese from burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy garlic bread, garlic bread, appetizer, side dish, comfort food, mozzarella, Parmesan, party snack, Italian, easy recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/cheesy-garlic-bread/