This homemade cheesy bread is the ultimate combination of crispy, golden edges and gooey, melted cheese. With a rich garlic butter base, a savory blend of cheeses, and just the right amount of Italian seasoning, it’s an irresistible snack, side dish, or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a quick and comforting treat, this cheesy bread will quickly become a favorite.
Ready in: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread (or Italian bread)
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking.
- Prepare the bread: Slice the loaf of French or Italian bread in half lengthwise. Place the two halves, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet. This will allow the garlic butter and cheese to soak into the bread evenly.
- Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and stir to combine. Using a spoon or a pastry brush, spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Be sure to cover the surface generously so that each bite has a good amount of flavor.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered bread. Use the mozzarella as your main cheese, followed by the cheddar and Parmesan to create layers of flavor and texture.
- Season the bread: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the cheese for a burst of herby flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to taste, but this is optional. The seasoning will give the bread a lovely savory touch.
- Bake the bread: Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. The bread should be crispy on the edges but soft and cheesy on the inside.
- Garnish and serve: Once the cheesy bread is out of the oven, let it cool for a minute or two. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a touch of freshness and color. Slice into portions and serve immediately.
Tips for Success:
- Bread Choice: While French bread is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can also use Italian bread or any other loaf that has a soft interior and a firm crust. A baguette works well too.
- Cheese Variety: You can customize the cheese blend to suit your tastes. Try adding provolone, gouda, or even a little cream cheese for extra richness.
- Make it Extra Garlicky: If you love garlic, feel free to add more garlic to the butter or even roast a few garlic cloves and mash them into the butter mixture for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
- Storage: This cheesy bread is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. Reheat in the oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to bring back the crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Side: Serve this cheesy bread as a side to pasta dishes, salads, or soups. It pairs wonderfully with a bowl of tomato soup or a hearty Italian dish.
- For Dipping: Cut the cheesy bread into smaller slices and serve with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Perfect for Entertaining: This cheesy bread is a great choice for parties or gatherings. Serve it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, and watch it disappear in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This cheesy bread is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in just 25 minutes. The combination of crispy bread, savory garlic butter, and gooey cheese makes it a universally loved dish. Whether served as a quick snack, a delicious side, or a party appetizer, this cheesy bread is guaranteed to be a hit at every meal.