Get ready to transform an ordinary loaf of bread into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Easy Cheese Garlic Bread is not just a side dish – it's a crispy, cheesy sensation that will steal the spotlight at any meal. Imagine golden, buttery bread loaded with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, infused with rich garlic flavor, and sprinkled with fresh parsley. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality appetizer that's impossible to resist!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Using a sharp bread knife, slice the French bread lengthwise horizontally, creating two equal halves. Place the bread cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly until the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture generously and evenly across both halves of the bread, ensuring complete coverage from edge to edge.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the buttered bread surface, covering it completely. Then, evenly distribute the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the edges of the bread are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the hot cheese bread for added flavor and color.
- Let the bread cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice into individual serving pieces using a sharp knife.
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately as a delicious side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Use room temperature butter for easier mixing with garlic and smoother spreading
- Choose a fresh, high-quality French bread for the best texture and flavor
- Mince garlic finely to ensure even distribution in the butter
- Don't skimp on cheese – a generous layer ensures maximum deliciousness
- Watch the bread carefully in the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning
- For extra richness, you can add a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or basil to the butter mixture
- Serve immediately while the cheese is still melty and the bread is crisp
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 60mg
