Cheesy Garlic Bread
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Bread
- 1 large French bread loaf or Italian bread, cut in half lengthwise (or 8 thick slices)
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a medium bowl, combine:
- Softened butter
- Minced garlic
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Dried parsley
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Place the bread halves (or slices) on the baking tray, cut side up.
Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over each piece, making sure it reaches all the edges.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the bread.
Top with the Monterey Jack cheese.
Finish with grated Parmesan and lightly sprinkle dried oregano and basil over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.
Step 6: Broil
Switch the oven to Broil (High) for 1–2 minutes until the cheese develops golden-brown spots and the edges become crispy.
Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 7: Rest
Remove the bread from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes. This helps the cheese set slightly while staying gooey.
Step 8: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
Slice into thick pieces and serve immediately while the cheese is hot, bubbly, and stretchy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Creamy tomato soup
- Marinara dipping sauce
- Caesar salad
- Roasted potato wedges
- Garlic aioli
- Pickles or roasted vegetables
Tips
- Freshly grate the cheese for the best melt and texture.
- For extra cheesiness, add a few slices of provolone between the bread and mozzarella.
- Brush the crust with a little melted butter before baking for a crisp, golden finish.
- Serve immediately for the best gooey cheese pull.