Get ready to experience cheese garlic bread like never before – we're talking seriously addictive pull-apart perfection!
This recipe transforms a simple loaf into an ooey-gooey, garlic-infused masterpiece that's easier to make than it is to resist.
Keep scrolling to unlock the secrets to this irresistible treat!
Ingredients
Okay, let's talk ingredients—we're gonna need a few key things to whip up this cheesy, garlicky goodness!
First, grab 1 crusty loaf. Sourdough or Vienna bread works best. It's gotta be sturdy, y'know? You'll also need 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Cheddar works too if you like a more intense flavor, or provolone could also do! This recipe emphasizes speed and simplicity.
For the garlic butter, you'll need 100g—that's 8 tablespoons—of unsalted butter, softened. Don't try using cold butter—it ain't gonna work! Two large garlic cloves, minced, bring the bite. Next is ¾ teaspoon of salt. Can't forget that! Finally, 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, finely chopped.
And that's all the magic we're gonna need—isn't that easy?
Instructions
Now that we've got all our ingredients prepped and ready, I can walk you through turning them into something so delicious! I always start by preheating the oven to 180C/350F!
Next, I combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and salt in a heatproof bowl. Then I melt it in the microwave – a quick zap does the trick. After melting, I stir in the fresh parsley.
Now comes the fun part! I cut the bread diagonally into 2cm/1" diamond shapes, careful not to cut all the way through.
I use my fingers or a knife to pry open each crack – like opening little treasure chests! Then I drizzle in a teaspoon of that garlicky butter and stuff in a pinch of cheese. You may want to use cheddar cheese to get the best flavor! Okay, time to brush the surface with any remaining butter.
Wrap the loaf with foil and bake for 20 minutes. The cheese should be melted! Unwrap and bake for 5-10 minutes to make the crust extra crispy!
Recipe Notes
Since there are a few things I've learned that can really help you nail this recipe, I want to share some notes!
I think the denser the bread you use, the better it holds up when you pull those delicious pieces apart. Sourdough is my top pick, as it makes this bread extra amazing. Don't even think about reaching for uncooked bread dough–it needs to already be baked!
Want a super quick version? Skip melting the butter and just cream it! Cut diagonal slices one way, spread the butter in, then cut the other way to make diamonds. It's not quite as perfect, but it's a speedy little compromise!
Each serving has about 191 calories. Not bad for something so tasty, huh? Enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
Make Ahead Tips
You know, planning ahead can really save the day, especially when you're expecting company or just want a stress-free dinner!
I've got two make-ahead methods for you. First, mix softened butter—not melted—with the garlic, salt, and parsley; I then smear it into the bread cracks. Next, I stuff it with cheese, wrap it super tight, and refrigerate or freeze. Thaw it before baking as the recipe directs–easy peasy!
But if you're looking for a super quick reheat option where you only need 2 minutes max, grab a crusty sourdough loaf for this one! Bake the bread fully, even the unwrapped stage. Wrap it in foil and let it cool completely, and you can refrigerate up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just nuke it in the microwave for 1½ – 2 minutes. You're going to love it!
Nutritional Information
I'm so excited to dig into what's actually in this tasty bread – the nutrition stuff! I'm talking calories, fats, carbs – the whole shebang.
Based on the recipe serving ten, each serving is about 58g. That means each serving rocks around 191 calories – not bad for something so yummy!
Here's the nitty-gritty:
- You're looking at about 19.5 grams of carbs per serving.
- There's also around 10.9 grams of fat, which includes 6 grams of saturated fat.
- And hey, a bit of protein – 2.5 grams per serving!
Now, I know nutrition labels can be a bit boring, but it's good to know what you're munching on – right? Balance is key, folks! Enjoy this bread – I do! – but maybe pair it with a big salad.
Short Recipe Version
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
1 loaf Italian bread
½ cup butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut bread diagonally, 1-inch apart, without cutting all the way through.
- In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread butter mixture between bread slices.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top and between slices.
- Wrap loaf in foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Open foil and bake for 5 more minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated):
Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 10g