Introduction:
Cheesy garlic bread is the ultimate comfort food that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside spaghetti or enjoying it as a snack, this recipe is quick, easy, and guarantees crispy edges with a cheesy, garlicky center.
History of Garlic Bread:
Garlic bread dates back to ancient Rome, where garlic and olive oil were used to flavor bread. Over time, cheese was added to create the cheesy garlic bread we know and love today. This recipe is a simple, modern twist on a timeless classic.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- For the Garlic Butter:
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread (sliced in half lengthwise)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, garlic powder, and salt.
- Spread Garlic Butter on Bread:
- Place the halved bread on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up. Evenly brush the garlic butter mixture across the surface of the bread.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the garlic buttered bread. Optionally, add Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Bake:
- Bake the bread for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a crispy top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Slice and Serve:
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, then slice into individual pieces and serve hot!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Garlic Bread:
- Bread Choice: Use a sturdy French or Italian loaf for the best texture. Avoid using soft sandwich bread as it may become soggy.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to use a mix of your favorite cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or provolone for different flavors.
- Extra Crispy: For a crunchier bottom, lightly toast the bread before adding the garlic butter and cheese.
Variations and Customizations:
- Cheesy Herb Bread: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the butter for a fragrant touch.
- Spicy Garlic Bread: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Knots: Use the garlic butter on pre-made pizza dough, tie into knots, top with cheese, and bake for a fun twist.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
- Calories: Each slice of cheesy garlic bread contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and butter used.
- Portion Control: This is a rich dish with butter and cheese, so enjoy in moderation, especially as part of a balanced meal.
FAQ:
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread with garlic butter and cheese, then wrap it in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bake when ready to serve. - Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, substitute 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for the fresh garlic if preferred. - How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place the bread in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread
This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread is crispy, buttery, and loaded with gooey cheese. A simple yet satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Ingredients
- 1 Loaf French bread
- 1/2 cup salted butter softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup Colby jack cheese shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut your French bread loaf lengthwise and place on top of a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl combine softened butter, garlic powder, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Spread evenly on each side of the garlic bread. Top with Colby Jack and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes until butter is melted an bubbly. You can also broil the top for 1-2 minutes at the end to give it a more crisp top.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.