Mozzarella Bread: The Ultimate Cheesy Delight
With its gooey cheese and golden crust, Mozzarella bread is the ultimate cheesy delight and is a family favorite. As we dive into this easy recipe, let’s look at how to turn a simple loaf into the best garlic bread you’ve ever tasted, perfect for those trying it for the first time or looking to perfect their homemade garlic bread recipe.
What We Love About The Recipe
- The crispy, golden crust: It’s that perfect crunch when you take a bite.
- The gooey, melted cheese: Stretchy and savory, it’s impossible to resist.
- The intense garlic flavor: It’s like a flavor explosion in every bite, leaving you craving more.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, cut in half
- 1/2 cup softened salted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella and provolone cheese combination
- 1-2 teaspoons parsley
A full printable recipe with measurements and instructions is listed at the bottom of the post in the recipe card.
Steps to Cheesy Perfection
Gather up your ingredients.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut the French bread loaf in half and place it on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and salt in a small mixing bowl.
Spread the butter over the French bread, and then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the bread.
Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the French bread are golden brown. Place under the broiler for one to two minutes to get the top lightly golden brown.
That’s it! That is how easy it is to make the recipe.
Variations to Explore
- Types of Bread: Crusty sourdough bread offers a delightful tang or Italian bread for delicious results.
- Kinds of Cheese: Beyond mozzarella and cheddar, adding slices of Parmigiano Reggiano or bits of Gorgonzola can introduce new layers of flavor.
- Add-Ons: For a summer twist, top with ripe summer tomatoes before baking, or add a layer of pesto for an aromatic kick.
- Make a Meal: Add some marinara sauce, top with cheese, and add on some pepperoni and sausage for French bread pizzas.
Tips for Success
- Garlic Cloves vs. Garlic Powder: Using both fresh garlic and garlic powder ensures a deep, aromatic garlic flavor that garlic lovers will adore.
- Cheese Melts Best: For that irresistible stretchy cheese pull, make sure your mozzarella is thinly sliced and covers the bread evenly. Add in some provolone for even more cheese pull!
- Best Way to Serve: Serve warm, right out of the oven, to enjoy the melted cheese at its best. Add some marinara sauce on the side to dip.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Butter: For a healthier version, substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a mix of both.
- Bread: Gluten-free bread can be a great alternative for those on a restrictive diet.
- Cheese: Vegan cheese substitutes work wonderfully for those looking to keep it dairy-free.
Storage Instructions
Mozzarella bread is best enjoyed fresh, but if you find yourself with leftovers, wrap them in foil and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or toaster for best results, restoring the bread to its crispy, cheesy glory.
Dish Pairings
Wrapping Up
There’s something undeniably comforting about pulling apart a piece of warm, cheesy garlic bread. Whether it’s your first time attempting this simple recipe or you’re a seasoned home baker looking to add a new twist to your dinner table, mozzarella bread promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Have you discovered your secret ingredient to the perfect garlic bread yet? Let me know in the comments.