This Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic Bread is a fun and tasty treat! Soft, fluffy bread is loaded with gooey cheese and flavored with yummy garlic. It’s perfect for sharing!
You won’t be able to resist pulling off piece after piece! 😄 I like to serve it hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—so good that it disappears fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A crusty round loaf is best, like sourdough or Italian. If you can’t find those, any thick bread will do, just make sure it has a sturdy crust to hold the filling.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh really makes a difference!
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice for its meltiness. For a flavor twist, try adding provolone or pepper jack. Vegan cheese can be used too, just check for melting properties.
Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, dried parsley or other herbs like basil can also work. Feel free to skip the oregano if it’s not your favorite.
How Do I Cut the Bread Without It Falling Apart?
Getting the cuts right is key! Here’s how to do it easily:
- Use a serrated knife to make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart across the top of the loaf.
- Turn the bread and make similar diagonal cuts in the opposite direction to form a diamond shape.
- Be gentle and avoid cutting all the way through the bottom crust. This keeps the loaf together while still allowing you to pull it apart later.
Take your time cutting—this step ensures you get just the right amount of garlic butter and cheese in every piece!
Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 1 large round loaf of crusty bread (like sourdough or Italian bread)
For the Garlic Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
For Finishing Touches:
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and 15-20 minutes of baking time. Plus a couple of minutes to cool down before enjoying. Total time: around 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bread bakes evenly and gets nice and toasty.
2. Prepare the Bread:
With a serrated knife, carefully make diagonal cuts in the bread loaf, about 1 inch apart. Then turn the loaf and make diagonal cuts in the opposite direction to create a diamond pattern. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want the loaf to stay intact!
3. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano (if using), and salt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and looks creamy.
4. Add the Garlic Butter:
Gently loosen the cut sections of your bread and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly in between each section. Make sure to fill all the gaps so every piece is delicious!
5. Stuff with Cheese:
Now, generously stuff the cut sections with shredded mozzarella cheese and any cheddar you might be using. Make sure you really pack it in there!
6. Bake the Bread:
Place the prepared bread onto a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment for easy cleanup. Lightly brush the top and sides of the bread with olive oil to help crisp it up. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Broil for a Golden Finish:
If you’d like a golden top, switch your oven to broil for an additional 1-2 minutes. Just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. You might want to garnish it with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a final touch. Then, pull apart the cheesy, garlicky pieces and enjoy your delicious creation!
This recipe yields a mouthwatering, cheesy treat that’s perfect for any gathering or as a cozy snack at home. Enjoy your Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic Bread! 🧄🧀
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While crusty breads like sourdough or Italian are ideal, you can also use a baguette or even a soft roll. Just make sure the bread can hold up to the fillings!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Parsley?
No problem! If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried parsley. Alternatively, other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can work well too.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Bread?
If you have any leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that fresh-baked taste.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bread and stuff it with the garlic butter and cheese, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven for a quick bake!
