Cheesy garlic bread is a beloved side dish that’s perfect for pairing with pasta, soups, or just enjoying on its own. This recipe will guide you through making an irresistible, flavorful cheesy garlic bread with a crisp crust, gooey cheese, and a perfect blend of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of Italian bread or French bread: Choose a fresh loaf with a crispy crust for the best results. You can also use other types of bread if you prefer.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Ensure the butter is at room temperature to make mixing easy.
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds the most flavor. Adjust the amount based on your preference for garlic intensity.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella provides a gooey, melty texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley): Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness. Dried parsley can be used if fresh is unavailable.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): For an extra layer of garlic flavor, add garlic powder to the mix.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances the flavors of the garlic and cheeses.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a bit of heat and extra flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that your garlic bread will be crispy on the outside and perfectly melted inside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- Mix the Butter and Garlic: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with the minced garlic. Stir well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Add Cheeses and Herbs: To the garlic butter, add the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Mix until well combined. If you’re using garlic powder, add it now along with a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Prepare the Bread:
- Slice the Bread: Cut the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. If you prefer, you can also cut it into smaller individual pieces for easier serving.
- Spread the Mixture: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure to cover the surface generously for the best flavor.
- Bake the Bread:
- Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the prepared bread halves on a baking sheet, cut sides up.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the bread are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Optional Final Touches:
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you like your cheesy garlic bread extra crispy, you can turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the bread before serving.
- Serve:
- Cool Slightly: Let the garlic bread cool for a few minutes before slicing into individual pieces.
- Slice and Enjoy: Cut the bread into desired portions and serve warm. Enjoy it as a side with your favorite dishes or as a delicious snack on its own.
Tips and Variations
- Garlic Intensity: Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference. For a milder garlic flavor, use fewer cloves or skip the garlic powder.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist on classic cheesy garlic bread.
- Herb Variations: Add other herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs will add more flavor than dried ones.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to use, simply spread it on the bread and bake as instructed.
Making the best cheesy garlic bread at home is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and a bit of preparation, you can create a side dish that’s sure to impress. This recipe delivers a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful bread that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving it with a hearty pasta dish or just enjoying it as a snack, this cheesy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.
