Discover the ultimate Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread! This indulgent appetizer combines a warm, crusty loaf of bread with melty mozzarella, savory garlic butter, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or just treating yourself, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 round loaf of bread (preferably sourdough or Italian)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
- Cut the Bread: Place the round loaf on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to make cuts about 2 inches apart, slicing almost to the bottom but not all the way through. Repeat in the opposite direction to create a diamond pattern.
- Stuff with Cheese: Gently pry open the cuts and stuff shredded mozzarella cheese into the crevices.
- Spread Garlic Butter: Using a pastry brush or spoon, spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the top of the bread, ensuring it seeps into the cuts.
- Bake: Wrap the bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, then unwrap and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the bread with grated Parmesan cheese and extra chopped parsley. Serve warm, pulling apart the pieces to enjoy.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced appetizer.
- Add as a side dish to pasta or soup.
- Serve with a charcuterie board for an elegant party spread.
- Enjoy as a cozy snack with a glass of wine.
Cooking Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the garlic butter.
- Make sure to slice deep enough for the cheese to fill the crevices but not all the way through to keep the loaf intact.
- Adjust baking time slightly for larger or denser loaves.
- Use a serrated knife for clean cuts in the bread.
Nutritional Benefits
- Mozzarella: A source of calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.
- Garlic: Contains antioxidants and compounds that support heart health.
- Parsley: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Contains Gluten: Not suitable for gluten-free diets unless a gluten-free loaf is used.
- Contains Dairy: Substitute butter and cheese with vegan alternatives for a dairy-free option.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Wrap leftovers in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Freezer: Freeze wrapped bread for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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- Simple and quick to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Melty, cheesy, garlicky goodness in every bite.
- Perfect for sharing and impressing guests.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and herbs.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread is the ultimate comfort food that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. With its irresistible aroma, gooey cheese, and golden, crispy crust, this bread is guaranteed to become a favorite for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of cheesy and garlicky flavors!
10 Frequently Asked Questions with Answers
- Can I use pre-sliced bread? No, it’s best to use an unsliced round loaf for the pull-apart effect.
- What other cheeses can I use? Cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack work well.
- Can I make it vegan? Yes, use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives.
- What if I don’t have fresh parsley? Substitute with dried parsley or use other fresh herbs like basil.
- Can I prepare it ahead of time? Yes, assemble the bread and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- What’s the best way to reheat? Wrap in foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
- Can I add meat to the recipe? Yes, add crumbled bacon or diced ham for extra flavor.
- Can I use a baguette instead of a round loaf? Yes, adjust the stuffing technique and baking time.
- How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy? Use a loaf with a sturdy crust and avoid overloading with butter.
- Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic? Yes, but fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor. Use 1 tsp garlic powder as a substitute.