Description

A stress-free, interactive party appetizer made with a crusty loaf of bread, garlic butter, and melted cheese. Perfect for unexpected guests or game day.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large loaf of French bread or baguette (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
8–10 cloves garlic, minced (about ¼ cup)
2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
¼ cup chopped fresh chives (optional)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Pinch of sea salt flakes
Extra olive oil for brushing

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the bread loaf horizontally through the middle to create a top and bottom half, keeping them intact.
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the cut sides of both bread halves.
Cut the bread into 1-inch squares horizontally and vertically, but do not cut all the way through the bottom crust.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the cut sides, getting cheese into the gaps between squares.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Optionally broil for 1-2 minutes for extra browning.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

Do not cut all the way through the bottom crust to keep the bread connected. Softened butter is key for even spreading. Shred your own cheese for better melting. Can be assembled up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 280
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 450
Fat: 16
Saturated Fat: 9
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 1
Protein: 10

Keywords: garlic bread, pull-apart bread, party appetizer, cheesy bread, easy recipe, holiday appetizer, game day food