Cheesy Garlic Bread
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For some reason, I’ve been hanging on to this homemade cheesy garlic bread recipe for ages—since July 2008, according to the printout. How it managed to slip through the cracks for so long is beyond me! I initially found it on Taste and Tell, which adapted it from Robbie’s Recipe Collection. The recipe itself is said to be a copycat version of Black Angus cheese bread, though I never actually tried it when Black Angus was still around. While I can’t personally compare it to the original, what I can say with certainty is that this bread is absolutely delicious!
If you love ooey-gooey, melty cheese goodness, this bread will be right up your alley. The first bite is filled with warm, buttery garlic flavor, complemented by the rich, cheesy topping—it’s seriously comfort food at its best. That being said, it is very cheesy, which might be a little intense depending on your preferences.
While I loved the thick, gooey layer, I’m considering adjusting the cheese mixture next time to make it a little lighter. Not because I didn’t enjoy it, but because my heart (and waistline) might thank me for a slightly less indulgent version! So, I’ve included a note with a reduced cheese option for those who prefer a more balanced bite. But if you’re feeling daring, go all in for maximum cheesy goodness. Either way, you won’t be disappointed!
Ingredients for Cheesy Homemade Garlic Bread
- SHREDDED ITALIAN BLEND CHEESE
- MAYONNAISE
- BUTTER
- CLOVES OF FRESH GARLIC
- FRENCH BREAD
- GREEN ONIONS
Instructions for Garlic Cheesy Bread
Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheeses for that melty goodness, mayonnaise to add creaminess and richness, softened butter to create a smooth, spreadable texture, and minced garlic for bold, aromatic flavor. Stir everything together until the garlic butter mixture is well blended and smooth.
Assemble the Bread: Take a loaf of French bread or Italian bread and slice it in half lengthwise. Spread the cheese mixture generously over the cut sides of each half, making sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor. Sprinkle chopped onions evenly over the top for a hint of freshness and extra depth.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bread halves on a cookie sheet or aluminum foil, spread-side up. Bake for 7 minutes, allowing the cheese to begin melting and the flavors to fuse together.
Broil for the Perfect Crisp: Once the cheese is bubbling, switch the oven setting to broil. Place under the broiler for about 3 minutes until the top is beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning—this step creates that irresistibly crispy crust!
Slice & Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool slightly. Slice or break into serving-size pieces and serve warm. Enjoy with soups, salads, pasta dishes, or as a stand-alone snack!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best type of bread to use?
A crusty French or Italian loaf works best because it holds up well to the cheesy topping and gets beautifully crisp when baked. If you prefer a softer texture, Hawaiian rolls or ciabatta are great alternatives.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a smoother, gooier texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melt.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Make sure to bake before broiling to allow the cheese mixture to set. Also, using a thicker bread helps prevent excess moisture from soaking in.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply spread it on the bread and follow the cooking instructions.
Can I freeze cheesy garlic bread?
Absolutely! Assemble the bread, then place it in the freezer before baking. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until golden and bubbly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For the crispiest results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread chewy instead of crispy.
Can I add extra toppings?
Definitely! Some delicious additions include: Roasted garlic for deeper flavor, fresh herbs like fresh parsley or basil, red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or crumbled bacon for extra indulgence.
What can I serve with cheesy garlic bread?
This bread pairs perfectly with pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna, soups such as tomato or minestrone, or salads for a balanced meal.
Can I make this recipe without mayonnaise?
Yes! You can substitute cream cheese or sour cream for a similar creamy texture without using mayo.
How do I get the cheese perfectly melted?
Bake first to melt the cheese, then broil for a golden, bubbly finish. Keeping an eye on it while broiling ensures it doesn’t burn.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheese – I used an Italian blend (I use 1 1/2 cups)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (I use 3/4 cup)
- ½ cup butter – softened (I use 6 Tbsp)
- 2-3 cloves garlic (minced fine)
- 1 loaf French bread cut in half lengthwise
- 1 bunch green onions – root and green ends trimmed chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, stir together cheeses, mayonnaise, butter, and garlic until thoroughly mixed.
- Spread prepared mixture evenly over the cut side of each bread loaf half. Sprinkle onions evenly over cheese mixture.
- Place bread, spread side up, on a cookie sheet or aluminum foil, and then bake in a 350 degree oven for 7 minutes. Turn oven setting to broil and broil for 3 minutes.
- Break or slice bread into serving-size pieces and serve. Serves 12.
Nutrition
