If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food side or snack, look no further than the BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE. This recipe combines the rich aroma of roasted garlic, the buttery goodness of a savory custard, and the irresistible pull of melted mozzarella cheese on soft, slightly crispy bread. Every bite is a perfect balance of garlicky flavor, creamy cheese, and just the right amount of crunch. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving an indulgent treat, this cheesy garlic bread will become your new go-to that everyone will rave about.

BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is simpler than you might think, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE. From silky roasted garlic to fresh herbs, these essentials create layers of flavor, texture, and eye-catching color that bring this dish to life.

Garlic cloves (8-10): Fresh cloves are essential for roasting, giving that sweet, mellow garlic flavor that anchors the bread.

Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used to roast the garlic, enhancing its flavor while keeping it tender and golden.
Pinch of salt: Helps bring out the natural sweetness in the roasted garlic.

Butter, melted (½ cup / 113g): Adds richness and a luscious texture to the garlic butter custard.
Egg (1): Acts as a binder in the custard, giving it a smooth and creamy consistency.

Milk (¼ cup / 60g): Lightens the custard while adding subtle silkiness.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the overall savory profile of the custard.
Paprika (½ tsp): Provides a mild smoky warmth and a pop of color.

Chopped fresh parsley (2 tbsp): Brightens flavors and adds freshness to the custard and garnish.
King’s Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sheet Rolls (12 rolls): These soft, slightly sweet rolls are perfect for soaking up the garlic butter; alternatively, a French baguette of similar size works beautifully.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts perfectly with a golden crust, delivering that classic cheesy pull we all love.

Chopped parsley and chili flakes for serving: Optional finishing touches to elevate both look and flavor.

How to Make BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE

Step 1: Roast the Garlic to Perfection

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to create the perfect environment for roasting. Toss your peeled garlic cloves with olive oil and a pinch of salt to ensure they caramelize beautifully. Transfer them to a mini oven-safe pot or cover with foil, then roast for about 20 minutes until the garlic is soft, tender, and golden. This step transforms raw garlic into a sweet, mellow flavor foundation for the bread.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Custard

Once the garlic is roasted, mash it with a fork until smooth. In a bowl, combine the roasted garlic, melted butter, egg, milk, salt, paprika, and fresh parsley, whisking everything together thoroughly. This custard is what will soak into the bread, infusing each bite with warm, rich garlic goodness balanced by herbs and just the right spices.

Step 3: Prepare and Bake the Bread Base

Lower your oven temperature to 350°F. Take your King’s Hawaiian sheet rolls in the full sheet form and use a sharp knife to carefully slice them into two halves. Place them on a large baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until they become light golden and crisp on the outside but still soft inside. This step ensures the bread can absorb the custard without turning soggy.

Step 4: Soak the Bread in the Garlic Butter Custard and Bake

Transfer your garlic butter custard to a large, shallow pan and carefully dip each sheet of bread into the custard, coating all sides thoroughly but gently. Place the soaked bread back on the baking sheet and bake again at 350°F for 15-18 minutes. This stage allows the custard to fully penetrate the bread, creating an irresistibly moist and flavorful interior with a golden crust developing.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil to Finish

Remove the bread from the oven and cover generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Switch your oven to the broil or grill setting and broil for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and perfectly golden brown. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn. This finishing touch gives you that ooey-gooey, cheesy top that turns this garlic bread from great to spectacular!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and a pinch of chili flakes over your garlic bread for a pop of color and a hint of heat. Then slice it up, serve warm, and prepare for nothing but compliments and requests for seconds.

How to Serve BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely herbaceous brightness to contrast the richness of the cheese and butter. Chili flakes introduce a subtle kick that awakens the palate. Adding these simple garnishes not only enhances the dish’s appearance but also elevates the flavor complexity for your guests or family.

Side Dishes

The BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of meals. Think hearty pasta dishes like spaghetti bolognese or fettuccine Alfredo, a rich soup such as tomato basil or creamy mushroom, or even alongside a fresh green salad to balance out the indulgence. It also shines as party finger food or a savory snack with dips like marinara or ranch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the cheesy garlic bread on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces for a stunning appetizer spread. You can slice into thick, generous pieces for sharing or cut bite-sized squares for casual gatherings. For a fun twist, serve it topped with crispy bacon bits or swap mozzarella for a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar to mix up the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from the BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To maintain the bread’s moisture and flavor, avoid wrapping it too tightly with plastic wrap right after baking, as this can cause sogginess.

Freezing

This garlic bread freezes beautifully! Wrap the baked but uncheesed bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before adding cheese and broiling to restore that fresh-from-the-oven vibe.

Reheating

To bring back the BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE’s golden crispiness, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. For leftover pieces with cheese already melted, a few minutes under the broiler can revive that ooey-gooey top. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the bread chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While King’s Hawaiian rolls are recommended for their sweetness and soft texture, a French baguette or even a rustic Italian loaf can work well. Just make sure to adjust roasting times as needed to accommodate the bread’s thickness and density.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, with some substitutions. Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk alternatives to replace butter and milk, and opt for vegan cheese instead of mozzarella. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly but will still be delicious.

Is it possible to make the garlic butter custard in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare the custard a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just whisk it again before using to recombine any separated ingredients. This step makes your assembly quicker without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add other herbs or spices to this recipe?

Sure! Fresh thyme or oregano can be wonderful additions to the garlic butter custard. A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika can add some heat or depth, giving the BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE your own personalized flair.

How do I know when the bread is perfectly baked?

Look for a lightly golden crust after the initial bake, followed by a golden, bubbly cheese topping after broiling. The bread should be crisp on the outside but tender and fully soaked with the buttery garlic custard inside for the perfect bite every time.

Final Thoughts

This BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE is a true delight that will steal the show at any meal. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to bring smiles around the table. So why wait? Grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and treat yourself to the warm, cheesy decadence that everyone will adore! I promise this is one recipe that will quickly become a kitchen favorite, just like it did for me.