It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs a little extra spark tonight.
This cheesy garlic bread is the answer to your busy weeknight stress. It is warm, golden, and smells like a dream. Your whole family will love this simple side dish.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner because it uses basic pantry staples. You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen right now. It is ready in 20 minutes from start to finish.
It is the ultimate kid-approved side dish for pasta night. The edges are crispy while the center stays soft and buttery. You will love how simple and fast it is to clean up.
Simple Method
Making this bread is incredibly easy and doable for any beginner. You just mix, spread, and bake. There are no fancy tools required for this recipe.
The two-step baking process ensures the bread is perfectly toasted. First, we toast the garlic butter into the bread. Then, we melt the cheese to golden perfection.
Ingredients You Will Need
These simple ingredients come together to create something truly special.
- 1 loaf (16 oz) French or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
- Cut the bread loaf in half lengthwise and place both halves cut-side up on a large baking sheet.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, dried oregano, and salt until a uniform paste is formed.
- Apply the garlic butter mixture evenly across the cut surfaces of the bread using a spatula.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 5 minutes to toast the bread and infuse the garlic.
- Remove from the oven and distribute the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the buttered surface.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and slice into 2-inch pieces before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this bread while the cheese is still stretchy and warm. It pairs perfectly with a big bowl of spaghetti or tomato soup. It is also a great after-school snack for hungry kids.
Place it in a basket lined with a clean cloth. This keeps the bread warm during your meal. Share it with love at your next family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for 2 days. For the best results, do not use the microwave to reheat.
Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 5-8 minutes. This keeps the crust nice and crunchy. You can also freeze the unbaked buttered bread for later use.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh garlic instead of the jarred kind for better flavor.
- Make sure your butter is truly soft so it spreads easily.
- Don’t skip the second bake; that golden cheese is essential.
- Watch the oven closely so the edges do not burn.
- Use a serrated knife to slice the bread without squishing it.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Double the recipe for a holiday crowd or large potluck.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap the oregano for fresh basil for a summer twist.
- Use gluten-free French bread to make it allergy-friendly.
- Add a layer of pesto under the cheese for more depth.
- Mix in a little cheddar for a sharper cheese flavor.
Common Questions
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the garlic butter and spread it on the bread. Wrap it tightly and keep it in the fridge until dinner. Just add the cheese right before the second bake.
What is the best bread to use?
A soft French or Italian loaf works best for this recipe. It absorbs the butter well while staying tender. Avoid very hard crusty sourdough for this specific preparation.
How do I know when it is done?
The cheese should be fully melted and bubbly. Look for golden brown spots on the surface of the mozzarella. The edges of the bread should look toasted and crisp.
I hope this cheesy garlic bread brings a little extra joy to your table tonight. It is so simple, yet it always feels like a special treat. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
The Easiest Cheesy Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 1 loaf (16 oz) French or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 cloves garlic , finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
- Cut the bread loaf in half lengthwise and place both halves cut-side up on a large baking sheet.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, dried oregano, and salt until a uniform paste is formed.
- Apply the garlic butter mixture evenly across the cut surfaces of the bread using a spatula.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 5 minutes to toast the bread and infuse the garlic.
- Remove from the oven and distribute the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the buttered surface.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and slice into 2-inch pieces before serving.
