Description
This Cheesy Bread recipe is a quick and delicious appetizer featuring a crusty loaf of French or Italian bread smothered with a flavorful garlic butter blend and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for serving warm alongside soups, salads, or as a party snack, this cheesy bread combines herb-infused butter and gooey cheese for a savory treat that’s simple to prepare and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Bread: Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. Place both halves on the prepared baking sheet with the cut sides facing up.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Spread Butter Mixture: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread halves, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the buttered bread, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese to cover the surface.
- Bake Bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly, and the edges of the bread have turned golden brown.
- Optional Broil: For an extra crispy top, place the bread under the oven broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cheesy bread from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Slice and serve warm for best taste.
Notes
- Using day-old bread can help achieve a crisper toast on the edges.
- Adjust garlic quantity according to your taste preference.
- Fresh herbs like parsley add a bright finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Broiling time may vary depending on your oven; watch carefully to avoid burning.
- For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
