Few things can rival the simple joy of freshly baked Cheesy Garlic Bread. Warm, crisp, buttery, and covered in bubbling melted cheese — it’s the perfect combination of comfort and flavor.
Whether you’re serving it alongside pasta, dipping it in soup, or enjoying it all on its own, this recipe is the only one you’ll ever need. Made with crusty French or Italian bread, garlic butter, and a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan, this garlic bread bakes to golden perfection in minutes.
It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and dangerously delicious — because once you pull a slice apart and watch that gooey cheese stretch, there’s no going back!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Bread
- Quick & easy — ready in 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Cheesy & garlicky — the perfect flavor combo.
- Crispy edges, soft center — ideal texture every time.
- Versatile side dish — pairs with everything from pasta to steak.
- Crowd favorite — no one can resist that melted cheese pull!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This isn’t just any garlic bread — it’s elevated with two kinds of cheese, rich garlic butter, and a sprinkle of herbs that make it taste straight out of an Italian restaurant.
It’s the perfect way to upgrade your dinner, and it’s so easy you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought versions. Whether you bake it for family pasta night or slice it into bite-sized pieces for appetizers, this cheesy garlic bread is pure comfort food bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large French baguette or Italian loaf
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic paste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for extra flavor
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread (Step by Step)
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the garlic butter
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Slice and spread
Cut your loaf in half lengthwise and place it cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly across both halves.
Step 4: Add the cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered bread. Add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning if desired.
Step 5: Bake until golden
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.
Step 6: Slice and serve
Let it cool for 2–3 minutes, then slice into pieces and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Bread
- Use good bread – A sturdy loaf like French or Italian bread holds up best.
- Soften your butter – Makes it easier to spread evenly.
- Use fresh garlic – It adds bold, aromatic flavor.
- Mix cheeses – Mozzarella for meltiness, Parmesan for flavor.
- Add herbs – Fresh parsley or basil gives brightness.
- Broil briefly – For that irresistible golden-brown top.
- Don’t overbake – You want it gooey, not dry.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes – For a little heat.
- Use garlic paste – For smoother, evenly distributed flavor.
- Serve immediately – Best enjoyed hot and cheesy!
Variations & Substitutions
- Three-Cheese Garlic Bread: Add provolone or cheddar for extra richness.
- Garlic Bread with Herbs: Sprinkle oregano or rosemary before baking.
- Stuffed Garlic Bread: Add layers of pepperoni or cooked bacon between cheese.
- Creamy Version: Spread a layer of cream cheese or ricotta under the butter.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and dairy-free mozzarella.
- Spicy Garlic Bread: Add crushed red pepper or jalapeño slices.
- Pesto Twist: Mix pesto into your butter mixture for a basil-garlic fusion.
- Garlic Knots Style: Use pizza dough and shape into knots before baking.
- Whole Wheat Option: Use whole-grain baguette for a healthier version.
- Mini Garlic Bites: Make bite-sized pieces for parties or snacks.
What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Bread
- Spaghetti Bolognese or Lasagna
- Creamy Alfredo Pasta or Chicken Parmesan
- Soups: Tomato basil, minestrone, or creamy mushroom soup
- Salads: Caesar, Caprese, or garden salad
- As a snack: With marinara or ranch dipping sauce
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Wrap leftovers in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
- Air fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 2–3 minutes for crisp edges.
- Microwave: 10–15 seconds for a quick fix (though it will be softer).
To Freeze:
Wrap in foil and freeze unbaked or baked for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the bread and refrigerate up to 8 hours before baking.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, use ½ teaspoon garlic powder per clove.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly shredded cheese melts better.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter and vegan cheese alternatives.
Can I add meat?
Definitely — cooked bacon, ham, or pepperoni work great.
How do I keep the bread crispy?
Bake uncovered and avoid overloading it with butter.
Can I use sandwich bread?
You can, but baguette or Italian loaves give the best results.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, for a lighter version, use ¼ cup olive oil instead of butter.
Can I make it on the grill?
Yes — wrap in foil and grill on medium for 5–7 minutes per side.
Can I add more cheese?
Always — more cheese = more happiness.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Bread is the perfect blend of crispy, buttery, garlicky, and cheesy goodness. It’s one of those side dishes that instantly turns any meal into something special.
Whether you’re serving it with pasta, soup, or just enjoying it on its own, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Simple ingredients, quick prep, and that unbeatable aroma of melted cheese and garlic — it’s everything comfort food should be.
Once you make it at home, you’ll never buy frozen garlic bread again.