Stuffed Cheesy Garlic Bread

There’s something magical about the combination of warm, crusty bread, melted cheese, and the rich aroma of garlic. As someone who loves both cooking and indulging in comfort food, I can confidently say that Stuffed Cheesy Garlic Bread is a game-changer. It’s not just a side dish—it’s a showstopper, perfect for parties, game nights, or even a cozy night in. The first time I made this, my kitchen smelled like heaven, and the smiles on my family’s faces were priceless.

This recipe is surprisingly simple but feels decadent. Imagine pulling apart a golden loaf of bread to reveal a gooey, cheesy center infused with garlic butter. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around the table, eager for the first bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into what makes this Stuffed Cheesy Garlic Bread so irresistible.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

French bread loaf: The foundation of this recipe, a fresh French bread loaf, is perfect for its sturdy crust and soft interior. It holds up well when stuffed and baked, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite.

Butter: Unsalted butter is key here, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. When melted and mixed with garlic, it creates the rich, flavorful base that coats the bread.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. Its pungent, aromatic flavor is what gives the bread its signature taste. Minced finely, it blends seamlessly into the butter mixture.

Mozzarella cheese: This cheese is a classic choice for its meltability. It creates that irresistible, stretchy, gooey center that makes every bite unforgettable.

Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a tangy, bold flavor that complements the mozzarella perfectly. It also helps create a richer, more complex cheesy filling.

Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a nutty, salty depth to the dish. It’s sprinkled on top for a golden, crispy finish.

Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, Italian seasoning adds an earthy, aromatic touch that elevates the overall flavor profile.

Parsley: Fresh parsley is used as a garnish, adding a pop of color and a fresh, slightly peppery note to balance the richness of the cheese and butter.

Ingredients List

1 French bread loaf
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Stuffed Cheesy Garlic Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the bread bakes evenly and the cheese melts to perfection.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Slice the French bread loaf horizontally, creating a top and bottom half. Be careful not to cut all the way through—you want the loaf to stay connected on one side.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the butter.

Step 4: Stuff the Bread

Brush the inside of both halves of the bread generously with the garlic butter mixture. Then, layer the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly between the two halves.

Step 5: Close and Coat the Bread

Close the loaf and brush the outside with the remaining garlic butter. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy, golden crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Wrap the loaf in aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, unwrap and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, slice into portions, and serve warm.

Tips for Making this Recipe

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—avoid pre-minced garlic in jars.
Don’t overstuff the bread with cheese, or it may spill out during baking.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the bread uncovered for the entire time.
Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Customize the cheese blend to your liking—try adding provolone or pepper jack for a twist.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the bread up to the point of baking, wrap it tightly in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving.

Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! A baguette or ciabatta loaf works well too. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispiness.

Can I freeze Stuffed Cheesy Garlic Bread?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with this bread?
It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or pasta dishes. It’s also great as an appetizer or party snack.

Enjoy making and sharing this Stuffed Cheesy Garlic Bread—it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!