Garlic Bread With Cheese Recipe

Prepare oven and loaf

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup. Using a sharp bread knife, cut the loaf in half lengthwise to create two open-faced halves. If you prefer pull-apart slices, you can instead cut the loaf into 1–1.5 inch slices without cutting all the way through (leave the bottom intact).

Make garlic butter

In a medium bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and olive oil. Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until smooth and evenly blended. Taste and adjust seasoning (add the optional red pepper flakes if using).

Assemble bread

Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the loaf halves (or between slices if prepared as pull-apart). Use all the butter mixture to ensure good coverage and flavor in every bite.

Add cheese

Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the buttered surfaces, pressing lightly so cheese adheres. Finish with the grated Parmesan distributed evenly on top of the mozzarella for extra flavor and browning.

Bake

Place the assembled loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the butter is bubbly and the cheese is melted. For a golden-brown, slightly crispy top, switch the oven to broil (high) for 1–2 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning.

Rest and serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes to set. If you baked halves, slice into serving pieces. If you made pull-apart, separate the slices. Serve warm.