Oh, the joys of comfort food—especially when it involves cheese! There’s something so delightfully nostalgic about cheesy garlic bread, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug on a plate, reminding me of cozy family dinners or that impromptu gathering where everyone just wanted something utterly satisfying. You know, I recently read that comfort foods can actually lift your mood—so why not whip up a batch and put that theory to the test?
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Slice a loaf of French bread lengthwise and place both halves on a baking sheet.
- Mix softened butter, garlic powder, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl.
- Spread the butter mixture evenly on the cut sides of the bread. Sprinkle Colby Jack and mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake the bread in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for a crisper top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut in half lengthwise
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute French bread with other types of bread like Italian loaf or a baguette. Just make sure it has a sturdy crust to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
- What can I add to make the garlic bread spicier?
- To add a spicy kick, consider mixing in red pepper flakes, paprika, or jalapeños into the butter spread before applying it to the bread.
- How do I prevent the garlic bread from over-baking?
- If you notice the garlic bread baking too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil. This will help slow down the baking process and prevent the top from burning.
- Can I make cheesy garlic bread ahead of time?
- While it’s best served fresh and warm, you can prepare the butter and cheese mixture ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply spread it on the bread and bake as directed.
- Is it necessary to broil the garlic bread?
- Broiling is optional but recommended for a crispier top. If you choose to broil, do so for just 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Tips
- To prevent your bread from sticking, lightly grease the baking sheet before placing the bread halves on it.
- For a spicy twist, mix in red pepper flakes, paprika, or jalapeños into the butter spread before applying it to the bread.
- While baking, keep an eye on the bread. If it seems to be browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to avoid over-baking.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet – If you don’t already have one, a good quality baking sheet is essential for baking the bread.
- Small Mixing Bowl – Useful for combining the butter spread ingredients.
- Bread Knife – For slicing the French bread loaf lengthwise. If you don’t already have a good bread knife, you might consider purchasing one.
- Pastry Brush – Helpful for evenly spreading the butter mixture on the bread, although not strictly necessary.
