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Cheesy garlic bread is the answer whenever a dinner or get-together needs something irresistible a golden loaf covered in melting cheese and infused with gentle roasted garlic. This is my foolproof recipe for the crispiest yet not heavy cheesy garlic bread ever you get smoky depth from soft roasted cloves and a cheesy crust with every bite.
Cheesy garlic bread has saved many of my pasta nights when I need something fast and special. Even my picky eaters beg for this and love helping sprinkle on the mozzarella.
Ingredients
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- Garlic cloves: pick firm plump cloves for the best flavor
- Olive oil: quality extra virgin olive oil ensures a rich garlic infusion
- Salt: just a pinch to season and develop flavors
- Butter: unsalted real butter delivers creaminess
- Egg: binds the custard mixture for better bread soak
- Milk: adds tenderness and moisture
- Paprika: opt for smoked paprika if you want a subtle warmth
- Fresh parsley: brightens up and adds color
- Kings Hawaiian sheet rolls or a fresh French baguette: both yield great texture
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: low moisture melts best and gives a perfect cheese pull
- Chili flakes: for a touch of heat
- Extra fresh parsley: for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Roast the Garlic:
- Start by setting your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Peel your garlic cloves and toss them with olive oil and a pinch of salt Coat them well then transfer them to a small oven safe pot with a lid If you do not have a lid cover with foil Roast them for about twenty minutes The cloves are perfect when soft golden and jammy Mash them into a paste and set aside
- Mix the Garlic Butter Custard:
- In a large bowl combine the mashed roasted garlic with melted butter egg milk salt paprika and chopped parsley Whisk enthusiastically until everything is smooth and evenly blended The custard should look thick but pourable
- Prep and Toast the Bread:
- Reduce the oven temperature to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Take your roll sheet or your split baguette Using a sharp knife divide the bread horizontally into two halves so you have a top and bottom Lay both halves cut side up on a baking sheet Toast for eight to ten minutes until just golden The outside should crisp but not darken too much
- Soak the Bread in Custard:
- Pour the garlic butter custard into a larger shallow pan Now take each toasted bread half and gently dip it cut side down into the custard Let it soak up every drop for extra flavor Flip to coat all sides then transfer the bread back onto your baking sheet
- Bake for Richness:
- Return the soaked bread to the oven and bake for fifteen to eighteen minutes The bread will puff slightly and turn golden with a rich aroma
- Add Cheese and Broil:
- Pile generous amounts of shredded mozzarella on top of each bread half Change the oven to broil or grill Broil for about five minutes Watch closely The cheese should melt and bubble and take on golden brown spots
- Finish with Garnish and Serve:
- Once out of the oven shower with extra chopped parsley and chili flakes Let rest for a minute then slice and serve The bread is best enjoyed warm and gooey
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Whenever I make this my favorite part is watching the cheese bubble under the broiler The aroma fills the house My family has started calling it magical bread and it always disappears within minutes
Storage Tips
Cheesy garlic bread keeps well if you plan ahead Wrap any leftovers tightly in foil then store in the fridge for up to two days Reheat in a hot oven wrapped in foil to refresh the crispiness or just microwave if you are short on time This bread does not freeze as perfectly due to the custard but is still delicious toasted again
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Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find Hawaiian rolls use a French baguette or Italian loaf Just aim for a soft interior that soaks up the custard If mozzarella is not on hand try low moisture provolone or a mild cheddar You can swap fresh parsley for chives or basil
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy garlic bread is perfect with pasta night chicken parmesan or green salads I love serving it in thick slices for dipping into tomato soup or alongside roasted veggies It is also a star at brunch buffets or as part of a picnic spread
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Cultural and Historical Context
Garlic bread has roots in traditional Italian bruschetta but the cheesy twist is a classic American invention Soft dinner rolls add a touch of Hawaiian comfort and sweetness which is now beloved in homes across the country
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
King's Hawaiian rolls or a fresh French baguette both hold up well, offering a soft interior and crisp, golden crust after baking.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
You can roast the garlic and prepare the custard mixture ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving for best texture.
- → How can I get the cheese bubbly and golden?
After layering the mozzarella, broil the bread briefly until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown, watching closely.
- → Is it possible to substitute cheeses?
Mozzarella gives a classic melt, but you can mix in cheddar or provolone for variety and added flavor.
- → What’s a good garnish for added flavor?
Fresh chopped parsley and a pinch of chili flakes on top add freshness and a little heat to each piece.