BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE

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This Best Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I can barely contain my excitement as I share it with you all today. A few years back, I found myself in my tiny kitchen on a rainy afternoon, searching for that magical comfort food that could wrap me in a cozy blanket of flavor. The tantalizing aroma of roasting garlic filled the air, making the kitchen feel more like a warm hug than a mere cooking space. As I combined garlic, butter, and cheese, an epiphany struck – why not create a dish that combines all my favorites into one heavenly loaf?

Fast forward to many cozy evenings gathered with friends and family, sharing bites of this delightfully cheesy, gooey, and crispy bread. The crunchy crust and melty, golden cheese wrap around the soft interior like a warm hug, while the roasted garlic adds a roast-y sweetness that dances on your palate. Trust me; once you fill your kitchen with the intoxicating scents of this cheesy garlic bread, you’ll find that it’s nearly irresistible. Your loved ones will serenade you with compliments and requests for seconds, just as mine do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip this up in no time!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in – everyone will be asking for your secret!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh garlic, creamy cheese, and subtle spices creates an unforgettable flavor experience.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or even veggies to make it uniquely yours.
• Comfort Food: It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth with every satisfying bite!

Ingredients

• 8–10 garlic cloves: Sweetness is released when roasted and combined with butter and cheese!
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps in roasting the garlic nicely and adds a hint of flavor.
• Pinch of salt: Just a touch elevates the natural flavors of garlic and butter!
• Roasted garlic from above: This magic ingredient provides a rich, mellow sweetness.
• ½ cup butter, melted (113g): The backbone of the garlic butter – pure indulgence!
• 1 egg: This binds everything together and gives the bread a lovely custardy texture.
• ¼ cup milk (60g): Ensures the garlic butter stays moist and creamy.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste – don’t skip this!
• ½ tsp paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and gentle smokiness to the mix.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: A pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• 12 King’s Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sheet Rolls (or French baguette): Soft, pillowy bread – the ultimate canvas for all this cheesy goodness!
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: To create that irresistible gooeyness and stretch that we all adore!
• Chopped parsley and chili flakes (for serving): Optional garnishes that add a lovely finish and a slight kick.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Roasted Garlic:

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C). The anticipation will start to build here, my friend!
2. Prepare the garlic: Slice the tops off the garlic heads to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
3. Wrap and roast: Tightly wrap in foil and roast for about 30-35 minutes, until golden and tender. Oh, the heavenly aroma filling your kitchen will be worth the wait!

Garlic Butter Custard:

1. Mix it all together: In a bowl, combine the roasted garlic (squeeze out the sweet, soft cloves), melted butter, egg, milk, salt, paprika, and chopped parsley. Use a fork or whisk to blend it all until it’s smooth and deliciously creamy.
2. Savor the scent: Take a moment to appreciate the delightful smell wafting from your bowl. That’s happiness in a dish, folks!

Assembly:

1. Slice the bread: Keep the Hawaiian rolls in their full sheet form. Carefully slice them lengthwise but don’t completely separate them – we want all that cheesy goodness to stay in place!
2. Spread the garlic butter: Generously slather your garlic butter custard over the cut sides of the bread, making sure to get into all those lovely nooks and crannies.
3. Don’t forget the cheese: Pile on the shredded mozzarella until it’s a magnificent mountain of cheesy perfection.
4. Final bake: Place your cheesy masterpiece on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melty and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Roast the garlic ahead of time: It can be stored in the fridge for a few days, so you can whip this up whenever the craving strikes!
2. Use good quality cheese: It makes a world of difference for that ooey-gooey stretch.
3. Switch up the herbs: Depending on your mood, try adding oregano or basil to the garlic butter for a little extra zing!
4. Be generous: Don’t skimp on the garlic butter and cheese – trust me, it’s all about that luscious goo!

Flavor Variations

• Herb-infused: Use fresh rosemary or thyme in the custard for a lovely herbal twist.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile.
• Veggie addition: Chop up some sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious veggie medley!

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy garlic bread pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a comforting bowl of pasta, making it a perfect side dish for your favorite meals. For a lovely presentation, cut the bread into individual servings and serve on a rustic wooden board, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of chili flakes. And as for drinks? A chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the flavors perfectly.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can absolutely prep this delicious garlic bread ahead of time! Just assemble the bread with the garlic butter and cheese, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply toss it in the oven! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Leftovers

Don’t let any leftover garlic bread go to waste! You can cut it up and sauté pieces in some olive oil for croutons in salads or serve it as a side to your next breakfast, topped with scrambled eggs. Another fun idea? Use it as the base for mini pizzas, layering on your favorite toppings before baking!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze cheesy garlic bread! Just assemble it as instructed, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply transfer to the fridge to thaw overnight before baking!

Reheating

For the best reheating experience, place leftover garlic bread on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave will do, but it won’t keep that delicious crusty crust!

FAQs

Can I substitute different types of bread?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with sourdough, French bread, or any bread that you love.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic brings that aromatic charm, you can use garlic powder in a pinch—just adjust the amount to taste!

How do I know when the garlic bread is done?
Look for bubbling cheese and a golden brown crust! You want that crispy exterior with a gooey inside.

Can I add different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix it up with provolone, cheddar, or even a little feta for a tangy twist.

Final Thoughts

Cooking is all about love, experimentation, and cozy moments in the kitchen, and I hope this Best Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe becomes a warm staple in your home, just as it is in mine! Remember, it’s not just bread; it’s an invitation for laughter, shared meals, and heartwarming memories. So grab those garlic cloves, call your friends over, and get ready to enjoy the delightful goodness that comes from your own kitchen. Until next time, happy cooking!

Happy baking! Love,
Chef Ellie from Thinerecipes.com