Best Cheesy Garlic Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and effortless this cheesy garlic bread is to put together, but it still tastes like something from a restaurant. The buttery garlic spread soaks into the bread, while the cheese bubbles up into a golden, irresistible topping. It’s a guaranteed hit every time I make it, and I can customize it with herbs or spice to suit the mood.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• French bread or Italian bread (cut in half lengthwise)

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Garlic, minced

• Garlic powder

• Fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs

• Mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Salt (optional)

directions

1. I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, I mix softened butter with minced garlic, garlic powder, and chopped parsley or herbs until well combined.

3. I spread the garlic butter generously over the cut sides of the bread.

4. I sprinkle a thick layer of mozzarella over the buttered bread, then top with a bit of grated Parmesan.

5. I place the bread on the baking sheet, cheese-side up, and bake for about 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. For a golden top, I broil it for an additional 1–2 minutes—watching closely to avoid burning.

7. I let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings and is ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick side dish or last-minute party addition.

Variations

Sometimes I use a blend of cheeses—cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack—for a fun twist. I’ve added a touch of red pepper flakes to the butter for a spicy version, and occasionally I top it with chopped sun-dried tomatoes or cooked bacon for something more indulgent. For a softer version, I wrap the bread in foil before baking.

storage/reheating

Leftovers rarely last, but if I have some, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop slices in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or in a skillet to keep the bottom crispy. The microwave works in a pinch, but it softens the bread.

FAQs

What type of bread is best for cheesy garlic bread?

I like using French or Italian loaves—they have the perfect balance of crisp crust and soft interior. I avoid overly soft sandwich bread, which doesn’t hold up well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the buttered, cheesed bread in advance and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready, I just bake it straight from the fridge—maybe adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

I can, but I prefer shredding it myself. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a creamier texture.

How do I make it extra crispy?

For a crispier bottom, I place the bread directly on the oven rack for the last few minutes or finish it in a hot skillet after baking.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes, I use plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Some melt better than others, so I test a bit before committing to a full batch.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Garlic Bread is one of those recipes I keep in my back pocket because it’s always a hit—easy, flavorful, and impossible to resist. Whether I’m serving it with pasta, soup, or just as a savory snack, it never fails to impress. Once I started making it from scratch, I stopped buying the frozen kind for good.