Description
This delicious Garlic Cheese Bread features a crusty French or Italian loaf topped with a savory blend of garlic butter, fresh parsley, and a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Butter Mixture
- 1 loaf French or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheese Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the bread.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise and place both halves cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Mix until well incorporated.
- Spread Garlic Butter: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the buttered bread surfaces, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. If using, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for Golden Top: For a crisp, golden cheese crust, switch the oven to broil and broil the bread for an additional 1–2 minutes while closely monitoring to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, slice into 8 pieces, and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle Italian seasoning over the bread before baking.
- Swap the parsley for fresh basil to add a different herbal note.
- This recipe works well with gluten-free bread for those with dietary restrictions.
