Get ready to transform your ordinary bread into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Garlic Cheese Bread is not just a side dish - it's a culinary experience that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Imagine crispy golden edges, melted cheese oozing with flavor, and the irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, looking for the perfect game-day snack, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe is your ticket to instant deliciousness!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Slice the French bread lengthwise horizontally, creating two long halves. Place the bread cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened butter and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly until the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Using a spatula or butter knife, spread the garlic butter generously and evenly across both halves of the bread, ensuring complete coverage from edge to edge.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the buttered bread, distributing it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Follow by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella, creating a second layer of cheesy goodness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the edges of the bread are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the hot cheese bread for added color and fresh flavor.
- Let the bread cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice into portions. Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The key to amazing garlic cheese bread is using fresh garlic, good quality butter, and freshly grated cheeses.
- Ensure butter is truly softened: Let the butter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing with garlic to create a smooth, easily spreadable mixture.
- Don't skimp on the garlic: Mince the garlic finely to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the butter.
- Watch the bread carefully while baking: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the bread to prevent burning. The perfect garlic cheese bread should be golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven when the cheese is still melty and the bread is crisp.
- Optional variations: Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or experiment with different cheese combinations like adding some sharp cheddar to the mix.
- Make ahead tip: You can prepare the bread up to the point of baking and refrigerate for a few hours before popping it in the oven - perfect for party prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 60mg
