There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked bread mingling with the irresistible scent of garlic wafting through my kitchen. Whenever I whip up this Cheesy Garlic Bread with Garlic Butter, it feels like an instant celebration! I remember the first time I made it for my friends during a cozy dinner party – we could hardly wait for it to come out of the oven. I still chuckle when I think of us diving headfirst into that cheesy goodness, bits of melted mozzarella gooey in all the right ways. What can I say? We didn’t bother with plates; just hands and happy grins all around!
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform simple bread into something truly amazing. Whether you’re serving it alongside a steaming plate of pasta or just enjoying it on its own, this cheesy garlic bread is bound to impress!
What’s in Cheesy Garlic Bread with Garlic Butter?
Dinner Rolls or Loaf of Bread: I usually opt for French or Italian bread, as they have that perfect crust and soft inside. But hey, feel free to use whatever bread you have on hand!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show! This adds that melty, gooey texture we all crave. Make sure to use the good stuff for the best results.
Unsalted Butter: For richness and that buttery flavor. Softened butter mixes perfectly with garlic, allowing it to meld with all those wonderful flavors.
Garlic Cloves: I don’t mess around here – four cloves for me, please! Fresh garlic is essential for that punchy, aromatic flavor.
Fresh Parsley (or dried): Adds a burst of color and freshness. If you’re in a pinch, dried parsley works just fine.
Dried Oregano: A classic herb that complements garlic beautifully.
Salt and Black Pepper: These are your flavor enhancers, bringing out the richness of the butter and cheese.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A little kick can go a long way! If you like your garlic bread a bit spicy, toss in some red pepper flakes.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This is for an optional sprinkle on top, adding an extra layer of flavor. Trust me; it’s worth it!
Is Cheesy Garlic Bread with Garlic Butter Good for You?
Let’s be real; this cheesy delight isn’t exactly a health food, but everything in moderation, right?
Garlic: It’s pretty much a superfood! Packed with antioxidants and known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic can be beneficial for health when consumed in reasonable amounts.
Butter: While butter does add flavor and richness, it also adds saturated fat, so keep that in mind if you’re watching your fat intake. You could also substitute half of the butter with olive oil for a little health upgrade!
Mozzarella Cheese: This creamy cheese is a source of calcium and protein, but it can also be high in fat. Opt for part-skim mozzarella if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Overall, indulge in this cheesy garlic goodness occasionally, relish it, and savor every gooey bite!
Ingredients List
– 4 large dinner rolls or 1 loaf of bread (like French or Italian)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
– Grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling (optional)
This recipe makes enough cheesy garlic bread to serve about 4 people. But I won’t judge if you decide to eat half of it yourself!
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread with Garlic Butter?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
3. If using a loaf of bread, slice it partially into quarters (do not cut all the way through) to create pockets for the cheese. If using dinner rolls, make a cross-cut on top of each roll to create a pocket.
4. Generously spread the garlic butter mixture into each cut section of the bread, ensuring that some goes deep into the pockets.
5. Stuff the shredded mozzarella cheese into the pockets of the bread, distributing it evenly.
6. Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Optionally, garnish with extra fresh parsley before serving.
Cheesy Delights and Tips for Perfection
– You can customize this garlic bread by adding other toppings like sliced tomatoes or even cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
– If you want to make it a meal, serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
– To reheat leftovers, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that crispy texture.
Trust me, once you’ve tried this Cheesy Garlic Bread with Garlic Butter, it’ll become a frequent flyer in your kitchen! So go ahead and whip this up for your next gathering or just because you deserve a cozy evening in. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t forget to share your cheesy garlic adventures! 🍞🧄🧀
