How to Make the Perfect Cheesy Garlic Bread!

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of warm bread, rich garlic, and melted cheese. Cheesy Garlic Bread is a simple dish that brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures. This dish is ridiculously easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort and you can serve this as a snack during game night with friends or as a side to your main dish.

A Brief History of Garlic Bread

Garlic bread has roots tracing back to Italy’s bruschetta. The original version was a slice of bread toasted over an open flame, rubbed with garlic, and drizzled with olive oil. Over time, the dish evolved, with butter and herbs being added to enhance its flavor. When Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States, garlic bread took on a new life, incorporating cheese for an even richer taste.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Bread

• A sturdy loaf like French bread or ciabatta works best, as it holds up well to the toppings without becoming too soggy.
• Freshly minced garlic provides a stronger and more aromatic flavor than pre-packaged garlic pastes or powders.
• A quick broil for 1-2 minutes at the end gives the cheese a lightly golden crust.
• Garlic bread is best enjoyed straight from the oven when the cheese is still gooey and warm.

Can I Use Butter Instead of Olive Oil?

Yes! Butter adds richness and a deeper flavor. Melted butter can be mixed with the garlic and herbs for a more decadent version of this recipe.

How Can I Make It Extra Crispy?

To achieve a crispier texture, toast the bread lightly before adding the toppings, then bake it uncovered for the last few minutes.

What’s the Best Bread for This Recipe?

A crusty French baguette or ciabatta is ideal. Soft sandwich bread tends to get too soggy under the weight of the toppings.

Can I Make This Without an Oven?

If you don’t have an oven, you can make garlic bread in a pan on the stovetop. Use medium heat and cover the pan to allow the cheese to melt.

How Do I Reheat Leftover Garlic Bread?

Reheat in the oven at 160°C/320°F for about 10 minutes to restore its crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Can I Add Toppings?

Of course! Try adding crispy bacon bits, red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a unique twist.

How to Make the Perfect Cheesy Garlic Bread

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, chives, and salt. Mix well and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Cut the bread in half lengthwise to create two open-faced halves. Evenly distribute the garlic mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.

Place the bread on a parchment-lined baking tray. Preheat the oven to 180°C/360°F and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.

Sprinkle on the garlic bread extra parsley.

Slice your bread and dig into this delicious meal.