Cheesy bread is the ultimate comfort food, perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Warm, gooey cheese layered over a soft yet crispy bread base is hard to resist! This easy recipe will have you whipping up cheesy bread that’s perfect for sharing (or not!).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Minimal ingredients and easy steps.
- Customizable: Use your favorite cheeses and herbs.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Bread Base
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread, halved lengthwise
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesy Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for added flavor)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Base
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise and place it cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Spread the butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and mayonnaise (if using). Mix well to create a cheesy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesy Bread
- Evenly spread the cheese mixture over the buttered bread halves. Make sure to cover the bread edge to edge for maximum cheesiness.
Step 5: Bake the Cheesy Bread
- Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden, crispy top, turn on the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes (watch closely to avoid burning).
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish.
- Slice into pieces and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Bread: Use a sturdy bread like French or Italian bread to hold the cheese topping without getting soggy.
- Even Cheese Coverage: Spread the cheese mixture evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bread while baking to avoid burning the cheese.
Variations
- Spicy Cheesy Bread: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey before serving.
- Four-Cheese Bread: Incorporate other cheeses like Gouda, Fontina, or Swiss for a rich flavor.
- Herbed Cheesy Bread: Mix fresh or dried basil, thyme, or oregano into the butter for extra aroma.
- Cheesy Garlic Knots: Use pizza dough to make knots, brush with garlic butter, and top with cheese before baking.
What to Serve with Cheesy Bread
- Soups: Pair with tomato soup, creamy broccoli soup, or chicken noodle soup.
- Dips: Serve alongside marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli.
- Main Dishes: Perfect with pasta dishes like spaghetti, lasagna, or Alfredo.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the cheesy bread up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.
2. Can I use store-bought garlic bread?
Absolutely! Spread the cheese mixture on top of pre-made garlic bread to save time.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftover cheesy bread in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for the best results.
4. Can I freeze cheesy bread?
Yes! Assemble the bread but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Homemade Cheesy Bread is an easy and satisfying recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Its irresistible combination of buttery garlic bread and gooey melted cheese makes it a guaranteed hit. Customize it with your favorite cheeses and seasonings, and serve it alongside your favorite dishes for a truly indulgent treat!
Ready to bake? Give it a try and let the cheesy goodness wow your taste buds
