Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe: Perfect Homemade Snack

Name: Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe: Perfect Homemade Snack
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 French bread or Italian loaf; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup parsley, chopped; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Pinch of salt; Optional: red pepper flakes

Posted on October 29, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction

The aroma of freshly baked cheesy garlic bread wafting through the kitchen is pure magic, isn’t it? I remember the first time I made this recipe—it instantly became a family favorite. There’s something so comforting about the combination of gooey melted cheese, fragrant garlic, and crispy bread all coming together in one heavenly bite. If you’ve been searching for the perfect cheesy garlic bread recipe, look no further because this homemade version ticks all the boxes: easy, delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I’ve tested this recipe countless times, tweaking the cheese blend and adding just the right amount of garlic to create a flavor-packed snack that’s great for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy movie night at home or a weekend dinner party, this cheesy garlic bread will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s super versatile—perfect with soups, pasta, or just on its own. Trust me, you’ll be making this recipe again and again.

This cheesy garlic bread recipe is not only mouthwatering but also surprisingly easy to whip up. With just a handful of staple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this irresistible snack in no time. Let’s jump right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this cheesy garlic bread is perfect for when you need a last-minute snack or side dish.
Simple Ingredients: With basic pantry items and a loaf of bread, you’re good to go—no fancy ingredients required.
Versatile: Perfect for parties, cozy family dinners, game nights, or even as a satisfying midnight snack.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s nearly impossible to resist the combination of bubbling cheese and garlicky goodness.
Customizable: You can make it your own by playing around with cheese blends, adding herbs, or even throwing in some extra toppings like bacon or jalapeños.

This isn’t just any cheesy garlic bread—it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. The bread is perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, while the cheese pulls are Instagram-worthy. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this recipe is a must-try.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create an unforgettable snack. Here’s what you’ll need:

French bread or Italian loaf: Fresh or day-old works fine. Just ensure it’s crusty on the outside and soft inside.
Unsalted butter, softened: This is key for creating that smooth, spreadable garlic butter.
Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herby contrast to the richness of the butter and cheese.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The star of the show! Opt for a high-quality mozzarella for the best stretch and flavor.
Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds wonderful sharpness and depth to the cheesy topping.
Olive oil: Helps create a golden, crispy crust.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavors.
Optional: red pepper flakes: If you like a hint of spice, this is a great addition.

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: A sturdy one ensures even baking and crispy bread.
Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your garlic butter and cheese blend.
Brush or spatula: Helps spread the butter evenly across the bread.
Knife: For slicing the loaf and minced garlic.
Grater: If you’re using a block of cheese instead of pre-shredded.

No fancy gadgets needed here—just your basic kitchen tools! If you don’t have a brush, you can use the back of a spoon to spread the butter.

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Slice your French bread or Italian loaf in half lengthwise. Place both halves on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up.
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup (1 stick) softened unsalted butter, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
Using a brush or spatula, generously spread the garlic butter mixture over each half of the bread. Make sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over both halves of the bread. For extra flavor, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the cheese.
Drizzle a light layer of olive oil over the cheese to help it crisp up perfectly while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For an extra golden crust, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Slice into pieces and serve warm. Enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!

Pro tip: If your cheese isn’t melting evenly, you can cover the bread loosely with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking time.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t skimp on the butter—it’s what makes the garlic flavor spread evenly across the bread.
For best results, use freshly grated cheese. It melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
If your loaf is extra thick, bake it for a few minutes before adding the cheese to avoid undercooked bread.
To make the garlic butter even more flavorful, consider roasting your garlic first. It brings out a sweeter, nutty flavor.
Want uniform slices? Use a serrated knife—it will cut through the crust without squishing the bread.

Remember, this recipe is forgiving, so don’t stress if your cheese spills over the side—it’s all part of the charm!

Variations & Adaptations

Herbed Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add Italian seasoning or fresh basil alongside the parsley for a more aromatic twist.
Spicy Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the butter mixture for a fiery flavor punch.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the French bread with your favorite gluten-free bread or baguette.
Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan butter and your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this recipe plant-based.
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in some shredded cheddar, gouda, or provolone for an extra-cheesy twist.

Personally, I’ve tried adding sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the mix, and wow—what a Mediterranean vibe! Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cheesy garlic bread is best served warm, straight from the oven, when the cheese is gooey and the bread is crispy. It pairs beautifully with pasta dishes, soups, or a fresh green salad. For a snack, serve it with marinara or ranch for dipping.

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop the slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Want to freeze it? Wrap the prepared, unbaked garlic bread tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While cheesy garlic bread is a treat, it does offer some nutritional perks. The garlic is packed with antioxidants and may boost immunity, while the cheese provides protein and calcium for strong bones.

Each slice (approximately 1/8 of the loaf) contains around 200 calories, 12g of fat, and 6g of protein, depending on the specific ingredients used. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whole-grain bread and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.

Please note that this recipe contains dairy and gluten, so it might not be suitable for those with allergies or intolerances.

Conclusion

This amazing cheesy garlic bread recipe is one you’ll want to make over and over again. It’s the perfect combination of indulgent flavors, quick preparation, and versatility. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or enjoying it as a solo snack, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to make and how satisfying it is to eat.

FAQs

Can I use regular sandwich bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use sandwich bread, but it may not be as crispy as French or Italian loaf. Toast it lightly first for better texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the bread with butter and cheese, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best cheese for cheesy garlic bread?

Mozzarella is a classic choice for that perfect cheese pull, but feel free to mix it up with cheddar, Parmesan, or provolone.

How do I make it extra garlicky?

Add a bit more minced garlic to the butter mixture or sprinkle garlic powder over the top before baking.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes, you can! Slice the bread into smaller pieces to fit in the air fryer, then cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Pin This Recipe!