Description
The best homemade cheesy garlic bread! Crispy on the edges, soft inside, and loaded with melted cheese and buttery garlic flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes — the perfect side for pasta or soup!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French or Italian bread
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes for spice
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or basil
- Drizzle of olive oil before baking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Prepare the garlic butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Prepare the bread: Slice the loaf in half horizontally and place both halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread the butter mixture: Evenly spread the garlic butter over both halves of the bread.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly across the top.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional broil: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden, crispy top (watch carefully!).
- Serve: Slice into pieces and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic: It gives a stronger, richer flavor compared to garlic powder.
- Don’t skip the broil: That quick broil step gives your cheesy garlic bread the perfect golden crust.
- Add herbs: A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or basil adds extra flavor.
- Make ahead: Assemble the bread, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake when ready.
- Crispier bread: Brush the outer crust with olive oil before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes