Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread
The Aroma That Brings Everyone to the Table
I have vivid memories of my grandmother making garlic bread. The moment that warm, garlicky aroma would start wafting through the house, you knew something special was about to come out of the oven. It was never just a side dish; it was a signal that a comforting and delicious meal was on its way. The crispy edges of the bread, the soft, buttery inside, and that glorious melted cheese pull – it was pure magic.
This recipe aims to capture that same comforting feeling. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. The fresh garlic infuses the butter with a pungent sweetness, and the cheese… well, who can resist perfectly melted cheese on warm bread? Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty lasagna or just enjoying it as a snack, this cheesy garlic bread is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t be surprised if it disappears in minutes – that’s always the best compliment!
Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
- 6-8 cloves fresh garlic minced (adjust to your garlic love!)
- 1 approximately 16-inch loaf of French bread, halved lengthwise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese preferably freshly grated for the best flavor
- 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese optional, but highly recommended for that gooey pull!
- Optional additions for extra flavor:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for an extra punch
- Pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Instructions
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the bread cooks through evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and the minced fresh garlic. Stir well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed. If using, stir in the chopped parsley or Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Prepare the Bread: Place the halved French bread on a baking sheet, cut-side up.
- Butter the Bread: Generously brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut surfaces of both halves of the French bread. Make sure every nook and cranny gets a taste of that deliciousness!
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered bread. If desired, top with a layer of shredded Mozzarella cheese for that irresistible melt and stretch.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is lightly golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Broil for Extra Browning (Optional but Recommended): For an extra golden-brown and slightly crispy top, switch your oven to broil on low heat for 1-2 minutes. Watch it carefully as broiling can go from golden to burnt very quickly!
- Slice and Serve Immediately: Once perfectly browned and bubbly, carefully remove the garlic bread from the oven. Slice into individual portions and serve immediately while it’s warm and the cheese is gloriously melted.
Notes
Garlic Intensity: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. More garlic means more flavor!
Cheese Variations: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Herb Power: Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil can add a lovely aromatic touch.
Make Ahead Tip: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before using. You can also butter the bread ahead of time, wrap it tightly, and store it at room temperature for a few hours before baking. Add the cheese just before baking.
Serving Suggestions: This cheesy garlic bread is fantastic with pasta dishes, soups, salads, or as a standalone appetizer.