Garlic Bread with Cheese Recipe

This Garlic Bread with Cheese recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soup, or any meal. The crispy French bread is topped with a savory garlic butter mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick family meal, this cheesy garlic bread is sure to be a hit. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect addition to any Italian-inspired dish or a great appetizer on its own. Enjoy this melt-in-your-mouth garlic bread that’s loaded with flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of French bread (about 1 lb.)
• 1 stick salted butter (at room temperature)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup Italian salad dressing
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Italian salad dressing, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

3. Slice the Bread

Slice the French bread in half lengthwise, creating two equal halves.

4. Spread the Garlic Butter

Spread the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of each bread half.

5. Add Cheese Toppings

Place the buttered bread halves on a baking sheet, butter side up. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the bread, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake

Bake the bread in the preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Brown the Top

Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and bake for an additional 5–8 minutes, keeping an eye on it until the top begins to brown and the cheese turns golden and crispy.

8. Slice and Serve

Remove from the oven and cut into 1-inch slices. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with pasta, soup, or homemade marinara sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Cheesy: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a melt-in-your-mouth, cheesy topping that pairs perfectly with the savory garlic butter.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this garlic bread with cheese is an easy side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
• Versatile: Whether you’re serving it alongside pasta, soup, or as an appetizer with marinara, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

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Tips

• Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is softened for easy mixing with the garlic and cheese.
• Even Coating: Spread the garlic butter evenly on the bread to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
• Watch While Browning: When increasing the oven temperature, keep a close eye on the bread to prevent burning. The cheese can brown quickly once the oven reaches 450°F.
• Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Different Bread: You can use other types of bread, such as ciabatta or baguette, for a different texture.
• Herb Variations: Add other herbs, such as oregano, basil, or thyme, to the butter mixture for added flavor.
• Cheese Options: Swap the mozzarella for provolone or add some cheddar for a unique twist.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives for a vegan-friendly garlic bread.

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FAQs

1. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just spread it on the bread and bake when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze garlic bread with cheese?
You can freeze the prepared bread before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze. When ready, bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

3. What if I don’t have Italian dressing?
If you don’t have Italian dressing, you can substitute with a bit of olive oil and a pinch of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.

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Serving Suggestions

• Perfect with Pasta: Serve alongside a hearty pasta dish like spaghetti bolognese or lasagna.
• Soup Pairing: Enjoy with tomato soup, minestrone, or a creamy broccoli soup for a cozy meal.
• As an Appetizer: This garlic bread is also great as a quick appetizer, served with marinara or any dipping sauce of your choice.

Enjoy this Garlic Bread with Cheese as the perfect, indulgent addition to any meal!