Garlic Bread Mozzarella

I used to grab garlic bread from the freezer aisle until one night I had leftover baguette and a serious craving. I mixed butter with garlic and whatever herbs were in the fridge, added cheese, and slid it into the oven. The smell alone made everyone wander into the kitchen before it was even done.

The first time I made this for friends during a casual dinner, someone asked if I'd ordered it from a restaurant. I laughed and told them it was just bread, butter, and cheese, but they kept coming back for more. Now it shows up at every gathering I host, and people expect it.

Ingredients

• French baguette or Italian bread loaf: A crusty loaf works best because it holds up to the butter and cheese without getting soggy.
• Unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter spreads easily and blends smoothly with garlic and herbs.
• Garlic, finely minced: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, avoid jarred if you can.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that brings everything together.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and gets bubbly and golden in the oven.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Optional but adds a salty, nutty layer of flavor.

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps cleanup easy and prevents sticking.

Slice the Bread:

Cut the baguette in half lengthwise, then slice into 6 pieces. You want each piece thick enough to stay sturdy under the toppings.

Make the Garlic Butter:

In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed and fragrant.

Spread the Butter:

Use a spoon or spatula to spread the garlic butter generously over each bread slice. Get it into the edges so every bite is flavorful.

Add the Cheese:

Sprinkle mozzarella over the buttered bread, covering it completely. If using Parmesan, add it on top for extra richness.

Bake:

Place the bread slices on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For extra crispiness, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, but watch closely so it doesnt burn.

Cool and Serve:

Let the bread cool for a minute or two before serving. It will be hot and the cheese needs a moment to set slightly.

Pin Recipe

One winter evening, I made this to go with a big pot of tomato soup, and it turned into one of those meals everyone remembers. We sat around the table dipping the bread into our bowls, and the conversation stretched on long after the food was gone. Sometimes the simplest things end up being the most memorable.

Flavor Variations

If you want a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cheese before baking. You can also swap the parsley for fresh basil or chives depending on what you have around. I've even used garlic powder in a pinch when fresh garlic wasnt available, and it still turned out great.

Serving Suggestions

This garlic bread is perfect alongside pasta, especially anything with marinara or Alfredo sauce. It also works as an appetizer with a bowl of marinara for dipping, or as a side with salad and soup. I've even packed it for picnics and it disappeared faster than anything else on the table.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. The microwave will make them soft, so I avoid it unless Im in a real hurry.

• You can freeze unbaked slices and bake them straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes.
• If the bread feels stale, a light brush of olive oil before reheating helps revive it.
• Serve immediately after reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Pin Recipe

This garlic bread has become one of those recipes I make without thinking, and it never disappoints. I hope it becomes a regular in your kitchen too.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread is best for this dish?

A large French baguette or Italian bread loaf works best due to their crusty exterior and soft interior, perfect for soaking up garlic butter and holding melted cheese.

→ Can I use other herbs besides parsley?

Yes, fresh basil or chives can be substituted for parsley to vary the herbal profile without overpowering the garlic and cheese flavors.

→ How do I achieve a crispy texture on top?

Baking at 400°F until the cheese bubbles and browns ensures a crispy top; for extra crispiness, briefly broil for 1-2 minutes.

→ Is it possible to add extra flavor layers?

Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a drizzle of olive oil before baking to enhance depth and richness.

→ How should this dish be served?

Serve warm, optionally alongside a marinara sauce for dipping, making it a versatile snack or side dish for many meals.