If you’re craving a comforting, delicious treat that’s both simple and satisfying, this Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the crunch of perfectly baked French bread, a luscious garlic butter spread infused with Italian seasoning, and a generous blanket of melty Colby Jack and mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or side, this dish brings warmth and irresistible flavor with every bite. It’s fast to make, crowd-pleasing, and just plain delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step toward a mouthwatering Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe. Each element plays a vital role, from the creamy butter that adds moisture and richness to the sharp garlic and herbs that awaken your taste buds, finishing perfectly with a blend of melty cheeses for gooey goodness and golden color.
- 1 loaf French bread: The perfect sturdy base that crisps beautifully but stays soft inside.
- ½ cup salted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic and herb flavors.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor throughout for consistency.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fresh, punchy garlic aroma and taste.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings aromatic depth to the butter mixture.
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded: Offers a mild, smooth melt and subtle tanginess.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Ensures gooey stretchiness and a classic cheesy texture.
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Begin by slicing your French bread loaf lengthwise to create two long halves, which gives you ample space for all the cheesy goodness and flavor to come. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet, setting the stage for that perfect toast and crispness.
Step 2: Make Garlic Butter
Next, whisk together your softened butter, garlic powder, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. This mixture is the star that will infuse the bread with bold garlic flavor, herbaceous notes, and a buttery richness that’s impossible to resist. Spread it evenly over the bread halves to ensure every bite sings.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Bake
Layer the shredded Colby Jack and mozzarella cheeses generously over the buttered bread. The combination of these cheeses creates a wonderful balance of flavor and texture—gooey and mild with just enough sharpness. Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. For a golden, slightly crispy top, pop it under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top to brighten the look and add a subtle fresh flavor that compliments the richness. Serve the bread warm to enjoy all the cheesy, garlicky goodness at its very best.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a vibrant green pop but also a fresh herbal note that balances the richness. You can also try a light dusting of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to elevate the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with pasta dishes like spaghetti marinara or creamy Alfredo, soups such as tomato basil or minestrone, and hearty salads. It also makes an irresistible side for grilled chicken or steak, adding a cheesy, garlicky contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, slice the bread into individual portions and serve it alongside mini dipping bowls filled with warm marinara or ranch dressing. For a party, create a garlic bread platter alternating plain and cheese-topped slices for variety and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the bread from getting stale too quickly while maintaining some of the cheesy softness.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the baked bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. It freezes well for up to 2 months and will save you time when you want a quick snack or side later on.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth and melty texture, reheat your garlic bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. This method revives the crisp crust and gooey cheese far better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While French bread works best for its texture and shape, you can use Italian, sourdough, or even a sturdy baguette. Just make sure the bread can hold the toppings well without becoming too soggy.
What cheeses work best for this Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe?
The combination of Colby Jack and mozzarella offers a perfect balance of melty stretch and mild flavor. However, you can experiment with cheddar, provolone, or Parmesan to customize the taste to your liking.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap regular butter for a plant-based alternative and choose dairy-free shredded cheese blends. The flavor will be a bit different but still delicious and satisfying.
How can I make the garlic flavor more intense?
Adding more minced fresh garlic or a touch of roasted garlic can elevate the garlic punch. Just be mindful not to overpower the other flavors or burn the garlic during baking.
Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?
Definitely. The garlic butter mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just bring it back to room temperature before spreading it on the bread to ensure even application.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the truth: once you try this Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to treats. It’s quick, comforting, and loaded with flavors that feel like a warm hug. So grab your French bread, whip up that garlic butter, and enjoy the magic of melty cheese and bold garlic—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread recipe combines a crispy French bread base with a rich, garlicky butter spread and a gooey blend of Colby Jack and mozzarella cheeses. It’s a quick and delicious appetizer or side dish, perfect for sharing and ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf French bread
Garlic Butter
- ½ cup salted butter, softened
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Cheese
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the French bread loaf lengthwise and place the two halves cut side up on a baking sheet to prepare for topping.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened salted butter with garlic powder, minced garlic cloves, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Spread Garlic Butter: Evenly spread the prepared garlic butter mixture over the cut surfaces of each bread half, ensuring every inch is covered for maximum flavor.
- Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded Colby Jack and mozzarella cheeses over the buttered bread halves, spreading them evenly for a perfect melt.
- Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet with the prepared bread into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly.
- Optional Broiling: For an extra crispy and golden cheese topping, switch the oven to broil and broil the bread for 1-2 minutes carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven, optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add color and freshness, then slice and serve warm to enjoy the melty cheesy garlic goodness.
Notes
- Use freshly minced garlic for a stronger, fresher garlic flavor compared to pre-minced jarred garlic.
- Adjust the amount of garlic powder and Italian seasoning to your taste preference.
- Broil just briefly and keep close watch to prevent burning the cheese.
- Substitute Colby Jack cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor if desired.
- For a lower-fat version, use light butter or substitute part of the butter with olive oil.
