Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread

This ultimate cheesy pull-apart garlic bread transforms a simple sourdough loaf into an irresistible centerpiece that disappears within minutes at any gathering. The combination of gooey melted cheese, aromatic garlic butter, and crusty bread creates the perfect tear-and-share appetizer that's guaranteed to impress.

I first made this for a casual movie night with friends, and it's now requested at every gathering I host. The way everyone's eyes light up when they pull their first piece and see that glorious cheese stretch never gets old.

Ingredients

• Sourdough bread loaf: Provides the perfect sturdy base with a slight tang that complements the rich filling
• Unsalted butter: Allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish
• Fresh garlic cloves: Deliver more potent flavor than pre-minced options
• Fresh parsley: Adds brightness and color contrast against the golden bread
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates those dramatic cheese pulls that make this dish so fun to eat
• Sharp cheddar: Adds a punch of flavor that balances the mild mozzarella
• Parmesan cheese (optional): Brings a nutty salty finish that elevates the entire dish
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Add a pleasant heat that cuts through the richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread:

Score your sourdough loaf with deep cuts in a crosshatch pattern about 1 inch apart. Be careful not to cut all the way through to the bottom as the intact base keeps everything together during baking and serving. Use a serrated knife for clean cuts and work slowly to maintain control.

Create the Garlic Butter:

Melt the butter completely either in a microwave or on the stovetop until just liquid but not hot. Immediately add the minced garlic while the butter is warm to help release the oils and flavor. Stir in the chopped parsley, salt and pepper, mixing thoroughly to create an aromatic mixture that will infuse the bread with flavor.

Fill the Bread:

Place the scored bread on a large sheet of aluminum foil. Use a spoon to drizzle the garlic butter mixture into all the crevices, ensuring it seeps deep into the cuts. Take your time with this step as thorough distribution ensures every bite will be flavorful. Next, stuff generous amounts of the combined cheeses between each cut, pushing them down into the cracks. The more patient you are with this step, the more dramatic your cheese pulls will be.

Bake to Perfection:

Wrap the entire loaf loosely in foil, creating a tent effect that allows the bread to steam slightly while the cheese melts. After the initial covered bake, opening the foil for the final minutes achieves that perfect golden crust while keeping the interior soft and gooey. Watch carefully during the uncovered baking to prevent burning.

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My favorite part about this recipe is the moment when you set it on the table and everyone gathers around, reaching in for that first pull. There's something uniquely communal about food that's designed to be shared this way. My nephew once declared it "the best thing that's ever happened to bread," and I'm inclined to agree.

Make-Ahead Options

This cheesy garlic bread can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare everything through the stuffing stage, then wrap tightly in foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed. The prep-ahead approach actually allows the garlic flavor to permeate the bread more thoroughly, resulting in an even more flavorful final product.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this pull-apart bread shines alongside pasta dishes or hearty soups. For a complete meal, serve with a simple green salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette to cut through the richness. If entertaining, place it in the center of the table on a wooden board with small plates around it for a casual, interactive appetizer that encourages conversation and sharing.

Creative Variations

Experiment with different flavor profiles to make this recipe your own. Try an Italian version with sun-dried tomatoes and basil mixed into the butter, or add caramelized onions and gruyere for a French onion soup inspired variation. For meat lovers, adding small pieces of crispy bacon or prosciutto between the cheese layers creates another dimension of flavor that pairs beautifully with the garlic and cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of bread works best?

Sourdough bread is ideal as it has a sturdy structure, but any dense round loaf will work.

→ Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

Yes, dried parsley works well. Use about one-third of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ What cheeses can I substitute?

In addition to mozzarella and cheddar, you can use Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyère for different flavors.

→ Can this be made in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead, refrigerate, and bake right before serving. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ How do I achieve an extra crispy top?

After unwrapping, broil the bread for 1–2 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.