Warm, gooey, and bursting with cheesy goodness, this homemade cheesy bread is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or appetizer!”
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 1 loaf of French bread (or any crusty bread, halved lengthwise)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
- Chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, basil, or chives)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, mix together the butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and dried parsley until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread
- Place the bread halves, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the surface of both halves.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese generously over the top. Add any optional toppings like red pepper flakes or fresh herbs.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Switch to the broil setting for 1–2 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top (keep a close eye to prevent burning).
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the cheesy bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
- Slice into pieces and serve warm. Enjoy on its own or pair with marinara sauce for dipping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 20 minutes with minimal effort.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish for pasta, soups, or salads, or as a standalone snack.
- Customizable: Add your favorite cheeses or spices to make it your own.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Bread: Crusty bread like French or Italian bread works best for this recipe.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try adding cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for unique flavor combinations.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
This Cheesy Bread is irresistibly gooey, crispy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging solo, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to disappear in minutes!