Description
French bread brushed with melted garlic butter, Italian seasoning, and topped with loads of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese! This cheesy garlic bread is a quick and easy appetizer, snack, or side dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for family dinners or parties!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound fresh French bread, halved vertically
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (salted butter can be used)
- 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided (from a 12-ounce block if shredding yourself)
- Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Slice French bread vertically into two long pieces. Place the bread cut-side up on the baking sheet. If the top half of the bread wobbles, trim it slightly to lay flat.
- Make the Garlic Butter:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter (45–60 seconds). Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning.
- Brush the melted garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the bread halves, followed by 3 cups of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake on the middle rack for about 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Broil (Optional):
- Switch the oven to high broil and broil the bread for 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh herbs and additional Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Best enjoyed hot and fresh.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- For freezing: Prepare the bread up to the point of baking, then freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg