Description

Golden, gooey, and loaded with garlicky, cheesy goodness, this Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread is the ultimate party appetizer or side dish. A crusty loaf is sliced, stuffed with buttery garlic and a blend of melted cheeses, then baked to perfection. It’s fun to eat, impossible to resist, and perfect for game nights, gatherings, or pairing with pasta dishes.

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Ingredients

For the Bread:
1 large crusty round or oval loaf (like sourdough or Italian bread)
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar or provolone cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Garlic Butter:
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Cut the Bread
Using a sharp serrated knife, make diagonal cuts across the bread about 1 inch apart, stopping just before the bottom—don’t cut all the way through.
Turn the loaf and repeat to create a criss-cross pattern of deep pockets.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Add Garlic Butter
Use a spoon or pastry brush to drizzle and spread the garlic butter mixture deep into all the cuts of the bread, making sure every crevice gets flavor.

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Stuff shredded mozzarella and cheddar into the slits, pressing down gently so it melts throughout the loaf. Be generous—it’s pull-apart bread, after all!

Step 6: Bake Covered
Wrap the loaf loosely in foil and place on the baking sheet.
Bake for 15–20 minutes to allow cheese to melt and bread to heat through.

Step 7: Uncover & Finish Baking
Uncover and bake for another 8–10 minutes, until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot and let everyone pull apart their own cheesy, garlicky portion!

Notes

Use the Right Bread – A crusty, sturdy loaf holds up best.
Don’t Slice Too Deep – Leave the base intact to keep the loaf together.
Go Heavy on Cheese – It’s what makes every bite ooey-gooey.
Add Your Twist – Try sun-dried tomatoes, bacon bits, or caramelized onions in the slits.
Serve Warm – It’s at its absolute best right out of the oven.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American