There is nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a warm slice of cheesy, buttery bread infused with the robust flavor of garlic. This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe transforms a simple loaf of French bread into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With gooey mozzarella and Colby Jack cheeses melting over a garlic-herb butter spread, every bite promises a delightful combination of crispy, cheesy, and aromatic goodness. Trust me, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort snack or sidekick for family meals and get-togethers alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two halves of a long white bread loaf on a white marbled surface. The bottom half is covered with a thick layer of creamy white sauce sprinkled with herbs, while a woman's hand sprinkles a mix of shredded yellow and white cheese evenly on top of the sauce. The top half of the loaf is fully covered with the same blend of shredded cheese, showing a loose, soft texture. The scene is bright and clear, with the details of the cheese and sauce visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe plays a vital role, from the crusty French bread providing the perfect base, to the blend of cheeses adding a creamy, melty texture. The garlic and herbs bring that irresistible savory punch that ties it all together.

  • French bread: Choose a fresh loaf with a crunchy crust and soft interior for the ideal bread canvas.
  • Salted butter: Softened for easy spreading, it adds richness and helps the garlic flavor infuse every bite.
  • Garlic powder: Enhances garlic’s depth of flavor without overwhelming the bread.
  • Fresh garlic cloves, minced: Offers a punch of real garlic aroma and freshness.
  • Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that layers in subtle complexity.
  • Colby Jack cheese, shredded: Adds a mild, fruity flavor and beautiful melty texture.
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded: The key to that stretchy, gooey topping everyone loves.
  • Fresh chopped parsley: Gives a pop of color and light herbal brightness as a final garnish.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. Slice your French bread loaf lengthwise to create two even halves. Lay them flat, cut side up, on a baking sheet. This setup ensures your bread crisps beautifully while being evenly coated by all the tasty toppings.

Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the softened salted butter, garlic powder, minced fresh garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is fully blended. This garlic butter spread is the flavor foundation of your bread, so spreading it evenly on each half is essential for that richly savory taste in every bite.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Generously sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack and mozzarella cheeses over the buttered sides of the bread. The combination of these two cheeses offers just the right balance between creamy richness and that irresistible melted stretchiness we all crave with cheesy bread.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place your loaded garlic bread in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt completely and the butter to bubble with inviting aroma. For an extra touch of golden crispness, broil the bread on high for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching carefully, so it doesn’t burn.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a refreshing burst of color and flavor. Cut the loaf into 12 serving pieces and enjoy immediately while warm and gooey!

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

The image shows two long slices of toasted bread placed side by side on a textured metal surface. Each slice has a golden-brown toasted base layer, topped with a thick, melted cheese layer that is bubbly and slightly browned in spots, with a mix of yellow and white cheese. Small pieces of green herbs are sprinkled over the cheese, adding color contrast and freshness. The edges of the bread are crisp and golden, and the cheese stretches slightly to the edges, giving a rich, warm, and hearty look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that brightens this dish with its herbal notes and vibrant green color. For an extra flavor kick, try sprinkling a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan on top to add a bit of spice and sharpness.

Side Dishes

Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread pairs beautifully with a wide range of meals. Serve it alongside pastas like spaghetti or fettuccine Alfredo, hearty soups such as tomato basil or minestrone, or even a fresh garden salad to balance the richness with some crisp greens.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings or parties, cut the bread into smaller finger-sized pieces and arrange them on a rustic wooden board. Add small bowls of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping to make it an interactive appetizer. You can also top the bread with extra ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, chopped olives, or diced tomatoes for a gourmet twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, wrap the garlic bread tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and texture. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature to keep it safe and tasty.

Freezing

To enjoy this Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe later, freeze it before baking by wrapping the prepared, cheesy bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake fresh for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy rather than crisp and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While French bread is traditional for Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe, you can experiment with Italian bread, ciabatta, or even baguettes. Just make sure the bread has a firm crust and soft interior to hold the toppings well.

What cheeses work best besides Colby Jack and mozzarella?

Cheeses like cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses can work wonderfully. Choose cheeses that melt well to get that irresistible gooey texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the butter with a non-dairy alternative like vegan margarine, and use dairy-free shredded cheese options available at most supermarkets to make a delicious dairy-free version.

Can I add herbs or seasonings to customize the flavor?

Definitely! Feel free to add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the butter mixture. You can also sprinkle some smoked paprika or chili flakes for an added kick.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning during baking?

Using a combination of minced fresh garlic and garlic powder helps balance flavor and prevent burning. Spreading the butter mixture evenly and baking at the recommended temperature ensures the garlic softens and infuses the bread without burning.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s quick to whip up and offers bold, comforting flavors sure to bring smiles to any table. Whether you’re feeding family, hosting friends, or just craving a cozy snack, you can’t go wrong with this deliciously cheesy, garlicky bread. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and make it a staple in your recipe collection!

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Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

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4.2 from 11 reviews

This Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread recipe is a quick and delicious side dish featuring a crusty French bread loaf loaded with a flavorful garlic butter spread and topped with a melty blend of Colby Jack and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or as a comforting snack, this cheesy garlic bread is baked to golden perfection with a crispy top and a soft, savory interior.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Garlic Butter Spread

  • 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Bread and Cheese

  • 1 loaf French bread
  • 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Garnish

  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for baking garlic bread.
  2. Prepare the bread: Cut the French bread loaf lengthwise, creating two halves, and place them cut side up on a baking sheet to get ready for the toppings.
  3. Make garlic butter spread: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, garlic powder, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
  4. Apply butter and cheese: Spread the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over both halves of the bread. Then generously sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack and mozzarella cheeses on top.
  5. Bake the bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the butter is melted and bubbly, and the cheese is fully melted.
  6. Optional broil for crispiness: If you desire a crispier top, switch the oven to broil and broil the bread for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  7. Garnish and serve: Remove the garlic bread from the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for color and fresh flavor, then slice and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use day-old French bread for better texture and crispiness.
  • Adjust garlic quantity to your preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
  • Broiling time is short—keep a close eye to avoid burning the cheese.
  • Try adding red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.
  • For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and cheese substitutes.

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