Description
Cheesy garlic bread brings Mediterranean comfort right to kitchen counters with irresistible melted cheese and aromatic herbs. Crisp edges and gooey center make this simple side dish a crowd-pleasing companion that elevates any meal you serve.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Cheese Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
Bread and Base Ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced lengthwise
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal heat distribution.
- Blend melted butter with finely chopped garlic to create an aromatic spread that will infuse the bread with rich flavor.
- Apply the garlic butter mixture generously across both bread surfaces, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Layer the bread with a generous coating of Parmesan and Romano cheeses, creating a tangy base for the melted topping.
- Distribute mozzarella cheese evenly across the bread, allowing it to create a smooth, gooey texture when heated.
- Transfer the prepared bread to the lined baking sheet and place in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
- Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a golden, crispy surface without burning.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant, fresh finish before serving immediately.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for crispier results as slightly stale bread absorbs butter and seasonings better without becoming soggy.
- Select fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced for a more intense, robust flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like adding sharp cheddar or gouda for unique taste variations and depth.
- Allow bread to cool for 2-3 minutes after baking to help cheese set and prevent burning your mouth while maintaining maximum crunchiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg