Irresistible Cheesy Bread That’s Golden, Gooey, and Ready Fast

This cheesy bread is my ultimate comfort food—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and loaded with gooey, melted cheese. It’s the perfect side for pasta, soups, or even just as a stand-alone snack when I’m craving something indulgent. The best part? It comes together in minutes with simple ingredients I almost always have on hand.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s so easy to make and always gets rave reviews. Whether I use a baguette, French bread, or pizza dough, the combo of buttery garlic, melty cheese, and golden crust never fails. I make it when I need something quick to round out dinner—or when I want to treat myself with something warm and cheesy straight from the oven.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Loaf of French bread or Italian bread (or homemade dough)

  • Butter, softened

  • Garlic, minced or garlic powder

  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded

  • Cheddar cheese, shredded (or Parmesan for a sharper bite)

  • Fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs (optional)

  • Salt (optional, to taste)

Directions

  1. I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. I slice the bread in half lengthwise and place it cut side up on the baking sheet.

  3. In a small bowl, I mix the softened butter with minced garlic or garlic powder, and a pinch of salt if needed.

  4. I spread the garlic butter generously over both bread halves.

  5. I sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar (or my favorite combo) all over the top—covering edge to edge for maximum meltiness.

  6. I bake the bread for about 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  7. For extra golden tops, I broil it for 1–2 minutes at the end—just until the cheese starts to brown.

  8. I let it cool for a minute, then slice into sticks or squares and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 servings, depending on how I slice it. It takes me 10 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to bake, so I’ve got cheesy bread on the table in under 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add a layer of marinara sauce under the cheese to turn it into cheesy pizza bread. I’ve also used different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or feta for fun flavor twists. If I want something spicier, I throw on a few red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices before baking. And when I’m serving a crowd, I double the recipe and use two loaves.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers (rare!), I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop slices into the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through and crisp again. Microwaving works too, but it softens the bread instead of keeping it crispy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought garlic bread for this?

Yes! I’ve done that before—just add the cheese and bake it according to the directions in this recipe. It makes it even easier.

What’s the best bread to use?

French bread or Italian bread works best—they hold up to the toppings and crisp nicely. I’ve also used homemade pizza dough or even naan in a pinch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I spread the garlic butter and add cheese, then cover and refrigerate until I’m ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven when needed!

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Make sure not to overdo the butter, and bake it long enough so the crust gets crisp. Broiling at the end also helps!

Can I freeze cheesy bread?

Yes, I freeze it before baking. I wrap it tightly, then bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.

Conclusion

This cheesy bread is one of those recipes I turn to again and again—easy, satisfying, and totally addictive. It’s crispy, melty, and perfect for sharing (or not). Whether I’m making it as a side dish or serving it as the main event, cheesy bread always hits the spot.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Irresistible Cheesy Bread That’s Golden, Gooey, and Ready Fast

Irresistible Cheesy Bread That’s Golden, Gooey, and Ready Fast

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Side Dish, Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Cheesy Bread is everything you love about comfort food—crispy edges, melty cheese, and buttery garlic flavor all packed into every bite. Made with just a few everyday ingredients, it’s the perfect side dish for pasta night, game day, or a cozy snack. Fast, easy, and totally irresistible!


Ingredients

  • 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread (or pizza dough or naan)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 23 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Parmesan for a sharper flavor)
  • 12 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Prepare Bread: Slice loaf in half lengthwise. Place both halves cut side up on the baking sheet.

  3. Mix Butter: In a bowl, combine softened butter, garlic, and a pinch of salt if needed.

  4. Butter the Bread: Spread garlic butter generously over both halves.

  5. Add Cheese: Top with mozzarella and cheddar (or cheese of choice), spreading evenly to the edges.

  6. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

  7. Broil (Optional): Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden, crisp top—watch closely!

  8. Serve: Let cool briefly, then slice into sticks or squares and serve hot.


Notes

  • Add marinara under the cheese for pizza bread.
  • Try cheeses like provolone, gouda, feta, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
  • Top with red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *