Garlic Bread With Cheese

Buttery cheesy garlic bread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser to round out any pasta night or cozy meal. It checks every box with soft French bread, tons of melty cheese, and an insanely savory garlic butter. I have brought a batch to holiday meals and it is always devoured in minutes.

I first made this when friends showed up late for dinner and needed something fast but comforting. Since then, I am convinced this easy garlic bread with cheese is the greatest party trick.

Ingredients

• French bread: One loaf with a firm crust and soft interior soaks up all the delicious flavors Try for bakery fresh and avoid pre sliced or packaged loaves if possible for the best texture
• Salted butter: It builds richness and flavor Allow it to come to room temperature so it spreads easily over the bread
• Fresh garlic: Minced to bring full flavor and aroma to your bread Always pick firm unblemished cloves
• Italian salad dressing: Packs in herbs tang and a bit of acidity for extra depth Choose a dressing you love the taste of
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated delivers nutty flavor and helps the cheese layer brown in the oven Go for real Parmigiano Reggiano if available
• Mozzarella cheese: Use block mozzarella and shred it yourself Soft melt and stretch makes every bite gooey Avoid pre shredded if possible for more flavor
• Fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh finishing touch Look for crisp bright leaves without wilting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven:

Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees This temperature starts the melting and toasting process gently

Mix the Garlic Butter:

In a large bowl use a spatula to combine the room temperature salted butter minced garlic Italian salad dressing and one cup of the shredded mozzarella Mix thoroughly so the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the butter

Prepare the Bread:

Take a sharp bread knife and carefully slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise so you have two long halves Lay each one cut side up on your work surface

Spread the Mixture:

Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves Make sure to reach every edge and corner for flavor in every bite

Add the Cheese Topping:

First sprinkle the grated parmesan evenly over each half Then top with the remaining mozzarella to cover completely This layering helps the cheeses melt together beautifully

Initial Bake:

Arrange the prepared bread halves butter side up on a baking sheet Bake in the preheated oven for ten minutes until the cheese has fully melted but not browned

Brown the Top:

Increase your oven temperature to four hundred fifty degrees and continue baking for up to eight minutes Watch closely during this step so the cheese caramelizes and turns golden but does not burn

Slice and Garnish:

Let the bread cool just enough to handle Slice into one inch pieces using a serrated knife Garnish with chopped fresh parsley right before serving for a burst of color

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I always look forward to using fresh mozzarella because nothing beats the stretchiness when you pull apart a warm cheesy slice. My nieces and nephews love helping sprinkle on the cheeses and always request the “cheesiest” slice.

How to Store Leftovers

Once completely cooled transfer slices to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage wrap the cooled slices tightly and freeze up to three months. Reheat from the fridge or freezer by wrapping in foil and baking at three hundred fifty degrees until hot and melty again about ten to fifteen minutes.

Ingredient Swaps and Extras

Instead of French bread you can use ciabatta or even sourdough for a tangier flavor. For a different herby twist add fresh basil or chives alongside the parsley. If Italian salad dressing is unavailable a mix of olive oil dried Italian herbs and a splash of vinegar works just as well.

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How to Serve Garlic Bread With Cheese

Serve warm and fresh alongside spaghetti lasagna or soup for a comforting side. It is also incredible dipped into homemade marinara or used as a foundation for an open faced sandwich. You can even serve it as a holiday appetizer with various dips.

Recipe FAQs

→ Which bread is best for this cheesy version?

French bread is preferred for its crispy exterior and soft interior, perfect for absorbing the garlic butter and holding the cheese.

→ How do you keep the bread crispy?

Bake first at a moderate temperature to melt the cheese, then increase the heat briefly to brown and crisp the top.

→ What tips improve the cheese flavor?

Grate fresh mozzarella and Parmesan just before using for better melt and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.

→ Can this be made ahead and frozen?

Prepare and slice, but do not bake. Freeze on a tray, then store in a bag. Bake slices straight from the freezer as needed.

→ How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Wrap slices in foil and warm in the oven, or use a covered dish in the microwave at reduced power to retain moisture.

→ Why use real garlic instead of jarred?

Fresh garlic gives brighter, more vibrant flavor to the butter and cheese mixture, enhancing the overall taste.