Cheesy Garlic Bread

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🧄🧀 Cheesy Garlic Bread

Description

Cheesy Garlic Bread is a classic comfort side dish made with crusty bread, rich garlic butter, and gooey melted cheese. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or accompaniment to pasta, soups, and salads. This recipe is quick, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.

📝 Ingredients

  • 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil.

  2. Prepare Garlic Butter
    In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chili flakes until well combined.

  3. Prepare the Bread
    Slice the bread lengthwise. Place the halves cut-side up on the baking tray.

  4. Spread Butter
    Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the bread.

  5. Add Cheese
    Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the bread.

  6. Bake
    Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

  7. Broil (Optional)
    For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

  8. Garnish & Serve
    Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, slice, and serve warm.

📌 Notes

  • You can use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.

  • Use pre-shredded or freshly grated cheese based on convenience.

  • This recipe can easily be doubled for parties or gatherings.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Use room-temperature butter for easy spreading.

  • For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or oregano.

  • To make it crispier, toast the bread lightly before adding toppings.

  • For a richer taste, mix in a little cream cheese or Parmesan.

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 4–6 people

  • Serving Size: 1–2 slices per person

🧮 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 280 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 26 g

  • Protein: 9 g

  • Fat: 16 g

  • Saturated Fat: 9 g

  • Sodium: 420 mg

  • Fiber: 1 g

(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)

🌟 Benefits

  • Provides quick energy from carbohydrates

  • Cheese supplies calcium and protein

  • Garlic offers antioxidant and immune-supporting properties

  • Satisfying comfort food that pairs well with balanced meals

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make cheesy garlic bread ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

Q: Can I use whole wheat or sourdough bread?
A: Absolutely. Both work well and add extra flavor and nutrients.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Q: Can I make it without cheese?
A: Yes, simply skip the cheese for classic garlic bread.

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