Ingredients:

• 1 loaf Italian bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the Bread: Slice the Italian loaf in half lengthwise to create two equal pieces. Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Spread

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Spread on Bread: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture onto each half of the bread, ensuring it’s generously covered.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

1. Sprinkle Mozzarella: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the buttered bread. For an extra cheesy flavor, add a bit more mozzarella, or substitute with other cheeses like provolone or fontina if desired.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional): For a golden, crispy top, switch your oven to the broil setting for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Fresh Parsley: Once the bread is out of the oven, sprinkle with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
2. Slice and Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly, then slice into serving pieces. Enjoy your Cheesy Garlic Bread hot and fresh!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Note: Based on 1 serving (1/8 loaf)

• Calories: ~200 kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Sugar: 1g

FAQs:

Q: Can I use different types of bread?
A: Yes! While Italian bread works best for its soft interior and crusty exterior, French bread or ciabatta also make excellent alternatives.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Definitely. Substitute the butter with a vegan butter spread and use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives to make this garlic bread vegan-friendly.

Q: How do I keep the bread from becoming soggy?
A: Use just enough butter spread and avoid over-baking. The bread will maintain its crispy texture if baked at the right temperature and time.

Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture and spread it on the bread, then store it in the refrigerator, covered. When ready to bake, simply add the cheese and bake as directed.

Tips for Making Perfect Cheesy Garlic Bread:

1. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a more vibrant and rich flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
2. Soften the Butter: Softened butter makes it easier to mix with other ingredients and spreads smoothly over the bread.
3. Add Herbs for Extra Flavor: Chopped fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can be mixed with parsley for added aroma and flavor.
4. Experiment with Cheese Blends: Combining mozzarella with provolone, Asiago, or a dash of blue cheese creates a unique cheesy flavor.
5. Don’t Over-Broil: Broiling gives the cheese a golden finish, but be sure to watch closely to prevent it from burning.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerator: Store leftover Cheesy Garlic Bread in an airtight container or wrap it in foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the assembled (unbaked) bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Reheating Tip: Reheat the bread in the oven to keep it crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Garlic Bread is a simple yet delicious side dish that adds warmth and flavor to any meal. With its buttery, garlicky spread and melted cheese topping, this recipe brings a comforting and satisfying twist to classic garlic bread. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, soup, or on its own as an appetizer, this bread is sure to be a favorite at your table. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, every bite delivers a rich blend of cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs. Give this easy recipe a try and bring a touch of indulgence to your next meal!