Golden, crispy, cheesy perfection — ready in 15 minutes and dangerously addictive.
Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: ~20 minutes
- Serves: 6–8
- Calories per slice (approx.): 180
- Macros (per slice):
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 10g
Ingredients
Base:
- 1 Loaf of French bread (or Italian loaf)
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1–2 teaspoons minced garlic (optional for stronger garlic flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Cheese Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor and golden finish)
Instructions
STEP 1: Prep Your Bread
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
- Slice the loaf lengthwise into two equal halves. Place cut-side up.
STEP 2: Make Garlic Butter
- In a bowl, combine:
- softened butter
- garlic powder
- minced garlic (if using)
- chopped parsley
- Mix until smooth and spreadable.
STEP 3: Spread It On
- Use a spatula or butter knife to generously spread the garlic butter across both halves of the bread. Don’t miss the edges!
🔹 STEP 4: Load with Cheese
- Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over each half.
- Add Parmesan over top for golden crisp edges.
STEP 5: Bake
- Place the prepared bread halves on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until:
- cheese is fully melted
- edges are golden and crispy
- center is hot and bubbly
STEP 6: Garnish & Slice
- Remove from oven and let cool 2 minutes.
- Garnish with extra parsley (optional)
- Slice into 1–2″ thick pieces and serve hot!
Pro Tips
- Crispier Bread: Bake on a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow airflow underneath.
- Extra Cheesy: Add 1/2 cup more mozzarella or swap in an Italian blend.
- Herby Boost: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning or basil flakes before baking.
- Buttery Hack: Use garlic herb compound butter if you’re in a rush.
Substitutions
| Ingredient | Swap |
|---|---|
| French Bread | Baguette, Italian bread, ciabatta |
| Mozzarella | Monterey Jack, provolone, Italian blend |
| Fresh garlic | Garlic powder only (for mellow flavor) |
| Salted butter | Unsalted butter + pinch of salt |
Variations
Spicy Garlic Bread
Add crushed red chili flakes or sliced jalapeños before baking.
Four-Cheese Version
Use a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, and Parmesan.
Pesto Garlic Bread
Mix 1 tbsp pesto into the garlic butter spread.
Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread
Top with shredded rotisserie chicken + a drizzle of Alfredo sauce before cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- With Pasta: Pair with spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine Alfredo.
- With Soup: Especially tomato basil, minestrone, or creamy mushroom.
- With Salad: Caesar, Greek, or spinach strawberry salad for contrast.
- With Brunch: Serve as an egg-topping toast option with savory brunches.
Storage & Reheat Tips
- Store: Wrap in foil or airtight container. Refrigerate up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze after baking in slices. Wrap individually and store in freezer bag.
- Reheat:
- Oven: 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
- Air Fryer: 375°F for 3–4 minutes.
- Microwave: Not recommended (gets soggy).
Why This Garlic Bread Works
- Soft middle, crispy edge: Perfect balance with the butter spread.
- Layered garlic flavor: Garlic powder for subtle heat, minced garlic for aroma.
- Mozzarella melt: Classic cheese pull everyone loves.
- Parmesan browning: Adds nutty, savory finish.
FAQs
Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I make it in the air fryer?
Yes! Slice into smaller pieces. Air fry at 350°F for 4–5 minutes until golden.
Q: What’s the best cheese for maximum pull?
Mozzarella is king, but adding provolone or fontina takes it up a notch.
Q: How do I avoid soggy bread?
Don’t overdo the butter, and bake at high heat (425°F) on a preheated tray.
Nutrition (per slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | <1g |
| Sugar | 1g |