Gooey Garlic Cheese Bread

If you’re looking for a quick, savory, and utterly irresistible side dish or snack, look no further than this Gooey Garlic Cheese Bread. This recipe features a perfectly toasted loaf of French bread, smothered in a rich, garlicky butter mixture, and topped with two kinds of melted cheese that are sure to satisfy any cheese lover. The gooey mozzarella combined with the sharp Parmesan creates the ultimate cheese pull, while the minced garlic adds a flavorful punch that takes this bread to the next level. Finished off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this cheese bread is not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

With minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps, this recipe can be made in less than 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice when you’re craving something cheesy, warm, and satisfying. Whether you serve it as a side to pasta dishes, a dipping bread for soups, or just as a savory snack, this Gooey Garlic Cheese Bread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gooey Garlic Cheese Bread is everything you love about cheesy bread but with an extra layer of flavor from the garlic butter and fresh herbs. The French bread provides the perfect base, being both sturdy enough to hold up to the cheese while still being soft and fluffy inside. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese gives the bread a creamy, rich taste, while the garlic infuses each bite with aromatic goodness. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! With only a handful of ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Italian meals or stands on its own as a delicious snack. The best part? The bread is ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Variations

• Add herbs: Try adding a pinch of dried oregano, thyme, or basil to the garlic butter mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spicy Garlic Bread: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle spicy kick.
• Cheese Blend: For a twist, use a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Make it with a baguette: Instead of French bread, use a baguette for a more petite, crunchy version of this cheesy bread.
• Garlic Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top of the bread before baking for a more pronounced Parmesan crust.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare it for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the bread

Cut the French bread in half lengthwise and place the halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Make the garlic butter mixture

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the minced garlic. Stir well to incorporate.

Step 4: Brush the garlic butter

Using a brush, evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.

Step 5: Add the cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the bread halves.

Step 6: Bake

Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the bread edges are golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Step 8: Slice and serve

Cut the bread into slices and serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the bread while it’s in the oven to prevent the cheese from burning. You want the cheese to melt and bubble, not crisp up.
• Use room temperature butter: If you don’t want your butter to harden too quickly when mixed with the garlic, let it cool to room temperature before using it.
• Fresh garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic rather than garlic powder. Mince the garlic finely to distribute it evenly across the bread.
• Try it with crusty bread: A crusty baguette or sourdough bread works wonderfully as an alternative to French bread for a different texture.

How to Serve

Gooey Garlic Cheese Bread is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Serve it alongside pasta dishes, soups, or salads for a delicious accompaniment. It also pairs wonderfully with marinara or garlic dipping sauces. For a casual gathering, it makes a great sharing platter, and it’s always a hit at parties or family dinners. You can even serve it as a standalone snack when you’re in the mood for something indulgent and comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover garlic cheese bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The bread will be less crispy the next day, but it will still be delicious.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat it in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to restore some of the original crispness.

Reheating

To reheat leftover garlic cheese bread, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted again and the bread is warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for a similar flavor.

2. Can I make this with a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any bread you like, such as a baguette, sourdough, or even a ciabatta loaf, for a different texture.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the garlic butter and assemble the bread ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and bake it just before serving.

4. Can I use salted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe, but you can substitute with salted butter if that’s what you have on hand.

5. Can I add more cheese to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add extra cheese for an even gooier, cheesier version of the bread.

6. How can I make this bread crispy?

If you prefer extra crispy bread, toast it for a few minutes under the broiler after it’s baked. Be careful not to burn the cheese!

7. Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Yes, pre-minced garlic works, though fresh garlic will provide a stronger, more fragrant flavor.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free butter and vegan cheese alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.

9. How long does this bread stay fresh?

The bread is best enjoyed the same day it’s made, but it can last for 1-2 days at room temperature.

10. Can I make this recipe without parsley?

Yes, the parsley adds color and a fresh flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer or replace it with another herb like basil or oregano.

Conclusion

Gooey Garlic Cheese Bread is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that combines the best of garlic, cheese, and freshly baked bread. It’s perfect for anyone who loves cheesy, savory snacks and makes for an ideal side dish or appetizer. With a quick prep time, minimal ingredients, and an irresistible flavor, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you serve it as part of a meal or just enjoy it as a snack, this garlic cheese bread will not disappoint.

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