Introduction

Cheesy garlic bread is a timeless favorite that’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. With a crispy crust, roasted garlic butter, and a blend of melty cheeses, this homemade version is easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

The image shows several pieces of bread covered with melted white cheese sprinkled with green herbs, placed on a light wooden board. The bread has a soft, airy texture with a slightly crispy, golden crust on the edges. In the background, there is a white bowl filled with more bread slices topped with cheese and herbs. Near the bowl is a small white bowl containing a red sauce with a slightly chunky texture. Everything is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
6 garlic cloves
1/2 tablespoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 large Italian loaf (take and bake style)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup havarti or white cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Roast the garlic by placing the cloves on a piece of foil and coating them with olive oil. Wrap the cloves tightly in the foil and place them in an air fryer or oven for 12-15 minutes. When the garlic has a slight golden color, mash or chop it with a fork or knife. This step enhances the garlic flavor but is optional.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, fresh parsley, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the roasted garlic until well mixed.
Step 4: Slice the Italian loaf in half lengthwise and generously spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of both halves.
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over both bread halves, ensuring full coverage.
Step 6: Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 7: Remove the bread from the oven and sprinkle with additional chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Step 8: Slice the cheesy garlic bread into portions and serve immediately while hot and gooey.

Tips & Variations

For a milder garlic flavor, reduce roasted garlic cloves to 3 or 4. For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes.
Try swapping havarti for gouda or Monterey Jack for a different cheese blend.
Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of dried for a brighter taste.
Make it ahead by preparing the garlic butter spread, then assemble and bake just before serving.

Storage

Store any leftover cheesy garlic bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread crispy.

How to Serve

This image shows several garlic bread sticks and a couple of half slices, each with two main layers. The base layer is a golden brown bread with a rough, crispy texture visible. On top is a thick, melted white cheese layer sprinkled with small green herb pieces, adding contrast and detail. These bread sticks are placed on crumpled brown parchment paper on a white marbled surface. Two white bowls of chunky red marinara sauce with a thick texture sit on the top right and bottom left corners. Some scattered green herbs add more color to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular raw garlic instead of roasting it?

Yes, but roasted garlic offers a sweeter, milder flavor and creamier texture that complements the buttery bread better. Raw garlic may taste sharper and more pungent.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

A sturdy Italian or French loaf works best because it holds up well to the butter and cheese without getting soggy. Avoid soft sandwich breads for this recipe.