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This golden cheesy garlic bread has become a must at pasta nights in my kitchen. With its crispy base and gooey topping, it is comfort food at its best and always gone within minutes.
The first time I made this it was a last minute dinner idea but now my family asks for it anytime we make spaghetti.
Ingredients
- Salted butter softened: gives rich flavor and helps the bread crisp up
- Minced garlic: adds bold flavor and infuses the butter mixture
- Italian seasoning: brings a fragrant herbal note use a fresh blend for best results
- Freshly grated mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully and creates stretch
- Freshly grated colby jack cheese: adds a mellow nutty flavor and enhances texture
- Fresh chopped parsley: adds color and a touch of freshness
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking
- Slice the Bread:
- Cut the French bread lengthwise into two equal halves and place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet
- Make the Garlic Butter:
- In a mixing bowl combine the softened butter minced garlic and Italian seasoning mix well until evenly blended
- Spread the Butter:
- Evenly coat the cut side of both bread halves with the garlic butter mixture making sure to cover from edge to edge
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and colby jack cheeses generously over the buttered bread pressing down slightly to help the cheese stick
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for twelve minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly then broil for thirty seconds to brown and crisp the top keep a close eye to avoid burning
- Serve Warm:
- Carefully remove from the oven slice into portions and serve immediately while warm and gooey
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Storage Tips
Wrap leftovers tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to two days. To reheat place in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees for five to ten minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain the bread’s crisp texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use unsalted butter if that is what you have and add a pinch of salt to balance flavors. Try provolone or cheddar instead of colby jack for a different cheese blend. For a vegan version use plant based butter and cheese but results may vary slightly.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this bread with marinara sauce for dipping at parties. Pair with creamy tomato soup or hearty beef stew. It also makes an amazing base for a quick French bread pizza with added toppings.
Cultural Context
Garlic bread is often associated with Italian American cuisine though it is an adaptation of bruschetta. Its popularity grew with the rise of pasta dishes in mid twentieth century American kitchens. This version blends classic Italian flavors with the convenience of modern home cooking.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What kind of bread is best for this?
French bread works best due to its sturdy crust and soft interior. It holds the toppings well and crisps nicely in the oven.
- → Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Wrap the bread and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to restore crispiness.
- → Can I make it spicier?
Yes, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a bit of heat without changing the flavor profile too much.
- → What cheeses work well here?
Mozzarella and Colby-Jack are great for melt and flavor. Parmesan or provolone are good additions for extra depth.
- → Can I freeze cheesy garlic bread?
Yes. Assemble it, then freeze before baking. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.