This Best Cheesy Garlic Bread is my go-to when I want something warm, comforting, and full of flavor. The buttery crust and gooey, cheesy center make it irresistible, while the savory garlic and herbs bring everything together. I love pairing it with pasta, soups, or even enjoying it on its own as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 loaf French bread (or Italian bread)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
I slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise and place both halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
In a small bowl, I mix the softened butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried oregano, and salt until smooth.
I spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the bread halves.
I sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
I bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
I remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, slice, and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 22 minutes
Calories: About 320 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
For an extra cheesy version, I layer in some provolone or cheddar along with the mozzarella.
I replace the dried herbs with fresh herbs when I have them for a brighter flavor.
I’ve made a healthier version using whole wheat bread and reduced-fat cheese without losing too much indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes to bring back the crispiness. For a quick option, I use the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes, which makes it almost as good as freshly baked.
FAQs
How can I make this bread ahead of time?
I prepare the bread with the garlic butter and cheese, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, I bake it directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze cheesy garlic bread?
Yes, I wrap it tightly in foil and freeze it before baking. When I need it, I bake from frozen at 375°F, adding about 10 extra minutes.
What’s the best bread to use?
I prefer a fresh French or Italian loaf because they have the right balance of softness inside and crispiness outside.
Can I make it without butter?
Yes, I swap the butter with olive oil for a slightly lighter, more Mediterranean flavor.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
I make sure the oven is fully preheated and bake until the edges are crisp. Serving it right away also keeps it from softening too much.
Conclusion
This cheesy garlic bread is one of my favorite comfort food sides because it’s quick, easy, and always delicious. The golden crust, gooey cheese, and garlicky flavor make it impossible for me to resist. Whether I’m serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a treat, it never disappoints.
Recipe:

Best Cheesy Garlic Bread
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm, comforting side dish with a golden, buttery crust, gooey cheese, and fragrant garlic herbs. Perfect with pasta, soups, or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients
1 loaf French bread (or Italian bread)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise and place both halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried oregano, and salt until smooth.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the bread halves.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, slice, and serve immediately.
Notes
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use provolone or cheddar for an extra cheesy version.
Replace dried herbs with fresh herbs for brighter flavor.
Use whole wheat bread and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅙ loaf
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg