Cheesy Garlic Bread Extravaganza – Imagine sinking your teeth into warm, crusty bread that’s smothered in buttery garlic and piled high with gooey, melted mozzarella, finished with a sprinkle of golden parmesan. This Cheesy Garlic Bread Extravaganza isn’t just a side dish; it’s a showstopper that makes any dinner feel like a feast. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s the kind of recipe that’ll have everyone fighting over the last piece. And trust me, you’ll be asked to make it again (and again).
The first time I whipped up this bread, I thought it’d just be a nice touch for our usual pasta night. But as soon as that cheesy, garlicky aroma hit the air, it was game over. My husband snagged a piece before I could even set the table and said, “Forget the pasta, this is dinner.” We ended up standing in the kitchen, munching on warm slices and laughing, barely leaving room for anything else. Now, this bread is our go-to for making any dinner a little more impressive—or just because we’re desiring it.
What makes this Cheesy Garlic Bread Extravaganza truly special?
It’s all about that mystical combo: melty, gooey cheese, crispy-edged bread, and rich garlic butter that oozes into every nook and cranny. And just when you feel it couldn’t get more promising. A drizzle of red pepper flakes gives it that perfect tinge of heat. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy. You can toss it together on a busy weeknight or make it for guests and look like a pro without even cracking a sweat.
What You Need To Make This Cheesy Garlic Bread Extravaganza Recipe?
Italian or French bread: You want a loaf with a nice crust but soft inside—it’s the perfect base for soaking up all that cheesy, garlicky goodness.
Salted butter: This gives richness and flavor to every bite. If you’re using unsalted, just toss in a pinch of salt.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key. It’s what fills your kitchen with that amazing, mouthwatering aroma.
Mozzarella: Shred it yourself if possible. Pre-shredded doesn’t melt as smoothly, and you want that ooey-gooey texture.
Mayonnaise: Might sound odd, but it adds a creamy, luscious layer that ties everything together.
Italian seasoning: Adds a familiar, herby touch that makes the bread taste like it came from an Italian restaurant.
Fresh parsley: Not just for looks—it adds a burst of freshness.
Parmesan: Freshly grated is best for that salty, nutty flavor that makes the topping irresistible.
Red pepper flakes: Just a hint for a tiny kick of heat. Leave it out if you’re not into spice, but it really balances the flavors.
Steps To Make Cheesy Garlic Bread Extravaganza:
Go ahead and get your oven warming up to 400°F. Line a cookie sheet with a nice long piece of tin foil (around 24 inches or so) to make sure you’re all prepped and ready to go.
Take your loaf of bread and slice it in half lengthwise. Lay those halves, cut side up, on the foil-lined baking sheet, ready to soak up all the goodness that’s coming their way.
Melt the butter in the microwave, then stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Give it a quick mix and set it aside—this is going to be the secret to that incredible flavor.
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Grab a mixing bowl and toss in the mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, and chopped parsley. Give it a good stir until everything’s mixed nicely. Once it looks all creamy and cheesy, set it aside for now—it’s going to be your secret weapon.
Take that melted butter mixture and generously brush or spoon it over both halves of the bread, making sure every bit is covered. This is where the magic starts, so don’t be shy!
Spread that creamy, cheesy mixture over the buttered bread, making sure to reach all the way to the edges so every bite is packed with flavor and you don’t end up with any dry, burnt bits on the sides.
Wrap the ends of the tin foil loosely over the bread, almost like you’re tucking it in for a cozy bake.
Let it bake for about 10 minutes in the preheated oven—just enough time to let those flavors start melding together.
Take the bread out of the oven, open up the foil, and sprinkle that freshly grated parmesan generously over the top. Trust me, this is where the magic really happens.
Pop the uncovered bread back in the oven and bake for another 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly. For an extra crispy finish, broil for 1-2 minutes.
Give it a couple of minutes to cool off just a bit, then slice it up and serve while it’s still nice and warm. Dig in and enjoy!
Tip:
For the best Cheesy Garlic Bread Extravaganza, don’t skimp on spreading that butter-garlic mixture all the way to the edges—it makes every bite flavorful and keeps the crust from drying out. Also, try using a mix of cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous. Adding a touch of Gruyère or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar with the mozzarella can add a whole new depth of flavor. And if you’re in the mood for an extra crispy finish, broil for the last 1-2 minutes but keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Trust me, this little step makes the difference between great garlic bread and unforgettable garlic bread.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything up to the point of baking, then wrap the bread in foil and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover garlic bread?
The best way to bring that just-out-of-the-oven taste back is to reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving—it makes the bread soggy.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and has a better texture. Pre-shredded cheese often comes coated with anti-caking agents that can make it less melty.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Cheesy Garlic Bread Extravaganza
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of Italian or French bread about 400 grams, cut in half lengthwise
- 1/2 c melted salted butter
- 6 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 1/2 c shredded mozzarella
- 3/4 c mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (a small handful or more, to taste)
- 1 c freshly grated parmesan
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Grab your loaf of bread and slice it in half lengthwise to create two open-faced pieces.
- Lay out a long sheet of tin foil (around 24 inches) on a cookie sheet and place the bread halves on top, cut side up.
- Melt the salted butter in the microwave, then stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Set this mixture aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix it well until everything is nicely combined, then put it aside for now.
- Using a brush or spoon, generously spread the melted butter mixture over both halves of the bread.
- Next, take a spatula or spoon and spread the cheesy mayonnaise mixture evenly over the bread. Make sure to get it right to the edges—nobody wants burnt edges!
- Fold up the foil loosely over the bread to cover it.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Take the bread out of the oven and open up the foil.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top.
- Put the bread back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. For an extra crispy top, broil for the last minute or two—but watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.
- Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it up and serve warm.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
