There are some recipes that everyone asks for, and this cheesy garlic bread is definitely one of them. It’s buttery, packed with fresh garlic, topped with melty cheese, and baked until perfectly warm with a soft, fluffy center. Whether you’re serving it alongside pasta, soup, or enjoying it on its own, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Serves: 4
Prep & Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 fresh rustic baguette, soft inside
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- ¾ cup finely grated cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano, low-moisture mozzarella, or a combination of both)
Directions
Prepare the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Slice the baguette lengthwise or into thick diagonal slices. Avoid slicing too thin so the bread stays soft after baking.
Make the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, garlic, parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and spreadable.
Assemble
- Spread the garlic butter generously over the bread, making sure to cover it from edge to edge.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top. A light, even layer melts best and gives you that perfect cheesy finish.
Bake
- Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until:
- The butter has melted
- The cheese is bubbly and melted
- The bread is warmed through while still soft inside
Optional Finish
- For a lightly golden top, switch the oven to broil for 30–60 seconds, watching closely to prevent burning.
My Favorite Tips
🤍 Always use a fresh baguette. Day-old bread tends to become too crispy instead of staying soft.
🤍 Bake on the middle rack for even heating and the best texture.
🤍 If you’re broiling at the end, keep a close eye on it—just a few extra seconds can make all the difference.
🤍 If you’ve sliced the baguette into individual pieces, gently pull them apart after baking to help maintain that soft, fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This garlic bread pairs perfectly with pasta, lasagna, soup, salad, grilled chicken, or a cozy family dinner. It’s also delicious served as an appetizer for gatherings or alongside your favorite Italian-inspired meal.
Simple, cheesy, buttery, and loaded with fresh garlic—this is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Enjoy!
xo,
Kimmy
