Super Bowl Appetizer Cheesy Garlic Bread

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Cheesy Garlic Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 large loaf of French bread; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Delights

I love making Cheesy Garlic Bread for the Super Bowl because it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines gooey cheese with aromatic garlic. This dish is perfect for sharing and is surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing me to spend more time with friends and family. The freshness of the herbs elevates the flavors, while the crusty bread adds the ideal texture. As we gather around the TV to watch the game, enjoying this cheesy delight makes the occasion even more special.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:37:08.597Z

When I first made Cheesy Garlic Bread for a game night, I didn't expect it to become a go-to dish in my recipe repertoire. The secret lies in using a mix of cheeses, which creates a luscious, melty layer that pairs perfectly with the buttery garlic spread. I recommend letting the bread cool slightly after baking; this way, it retains its shape when cut and served.

Another tip I've discovered is to sprinkle fresh parsley and a touch of red pepper flakes on top just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a hint of spice, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Your guests will love devouring these cheesy bites while cheering for their favorite team!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistible blend of melting cheeses with rich garlic flavor
Easy to prepare, perfect for entertaining guests
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh garlic in this recipe is crucial for achieving that bold, aromatic flavor that complements the cheeses beautifully. Pre-minced garlic lacks the vibrancy and intensity that fresh garlic provides, which is why I always recommend using whole cloves. Not only does fresh garlic add a robust kick, but it also infuses the butter with a delightful aroma as it bakes, creating an enticing scent while your bread is in the oven.

Likewise, using fresh parsley instead of dried herbs can significantly enhance the dish's overall taste. Fresh parsley brings a bright, herbaceous flavor, contributing to the richness of the cheese and garlic. When chopping the parsley, try to keep the pieces consistent in size to prevent them from burning while baking and to ensure even distribution over the cheesy goodness.

Perfecting the Texture

The right choice of bread is vital for achieving the ideal texture in cheesy garlic bread. French bread, with its crusty exterior and airy interior, is perfect for this dish. However, if you're looking for something with a chewy texture, you could opt for ciabatta. Just remember to adjust your baking time slightly, as denser breads may require an extra minute or two in the oven to achieve that golden-brown finish.

To ensure the bread’s texture is perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside, keep an eye on it as it bakes. Look for bubbling cheese and lightly golden edges. If you find the top browning too fast, consider adjusting your oven rack to a lower position or covering it with foil for the last few minutes to prevent burning while the cheese finishes melting.

Ingredients

For Cheesy Garlic Bread

1 large loaf of French bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Butter Spread

In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped parsley. Mix until well combined.

Slice the Bread

Slice the French bread in half lengthwise. Place it cut-side up on a baking sheet.

Spread the Garlic Butter

Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.

Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously over the buttered bread, ensuring an even layer.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bread for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the remaining parsley and red pepper flakes, then slice and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding Italian seasoning or some grated Parmesan to the cheese mix. This variation gives the bread even more depth and a unique twist!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover cheesy garlic bread, it’s best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day. However, to keep it fresh for longer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispy texture.

Alternatively, you can freeze cheesy garlic bread before baking. Prepare the bread and assemble it according to the recipe, but instead of baking, wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the freezer, unwrap, and bake from frozen for about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Flavor Variations

If you're looking to enhance the flavor profile of your cheesy garlic bread, consider adding a touch of chili flakes or a dash of Italian seasoning to the garlic butter for a spicy kick or herbal complexity. This small twist can make a big difference, especially if you have a crowd of diverse palates to please. I usually sprinkle a few flakes directly onto the melted cheese for a bit of extra heat and vibrant color.

For a gourmet touch, swapping out mozzarella and cheddar for more extravagant cheeses like goat cheese or Gruyère can create a more complex flavor. These cheeses melt beautifully and pair well with the garlic, while also adding unique textures and tastes. Just remember to balance the quantities, as some cheeses might be saltier than others, which could affect the seasoning of your garlic butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-made garlic butter?

Yes, pre-made garlic butter works well and saves time. Just spread it evenly over the bread.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can experiment with cheeses like provolone, gouda, or fontina for different flavors.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a toaster oven for the best results.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter and slice the bread ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving.