Can I use regular bread for garlic bread with cheese?

Absolutely! While French bread or ciabatta are ideal for that crispy crust and soft middle, you can use regular sliced bread in a pinch. Just toast it slightly before adding the garlic butter and cheese so it doesn’t get soggy. It may not look as fancy, but the flavor is still spot on.

What cheese melts best for garlic bread with cheese?

Mozzarella is the go-to because it melts beautifully and gives that classic cheese pull. But don't stop there—blending it with cheddar, Colby Jack, or provolone can add sharpness and depth. Try mixing cheeses for a next-level cheesy garlic bread experience.

Can garlic bread with cheese be frozen?

Yes, it freezes really well! Once baked and cooled, wrap slices in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good for up to a month. To reheat, pop them straight into the oven—no thawing needed. They’ll come out hot, bubbly, and just like fresh.

How do I make garlic bread with cheese without an oven?

No oven? No problem! Use a stovetop pan or even an air fryer. On the stove, place buttered and topped bread in a skillet over low heat. Cover it with a lid so the cheese melts. The bottom will get crispy, and the top will stay gooey. Quick and satisfying!

Is garlic bread Italian or American?

Surprise—it’s actually more American! While it was inspired by Italian bruschetta, garlic bread with cheese as we know it was created in the U.S. by Italian-American immigrants. It’s a delicious mash-up of two food cultures, and we’re all lucky for it.

Irresistible Garlic Bread with Cheese Recipe

Description

This easy garlic bread with cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food. With a golden, crispy crust and a gooey, cheesy center, it’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Made in just 20 minutes using simple ingredients like garlic, butter, and a blend of cheeses, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise
1/2 cup salted butter, softened
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Optional: 2 tbsp mayonnaise
Optional: Red pepper flakes or jalapeños

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
Slice the French bread in half lengthwise and place cut-side up on the baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and optional mayonnaise.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both halves of the bread.
Top with shredded mozzarella and Colby Jack cheese.
Bake for 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a crispier top.
Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

For a spicier version, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper.
Use fresh shredded cheese for better melt quality.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT15M
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 237
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 364mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 38mg

Keywords: garlic bread with cheese, cheesy garlic bread, garlic cheese toast, homemade garlic bread, mozzarella garlic bread, cheesy bread recipe, garlic butter bread