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This cheesy garlic bread is the kind of side dish that turns a regular dinner into something a little more comforting and a lot more delicious. It uses basic pantry staples and just a few minutes of prep for maximum payoff. The trick is layering flavor from the garlic butter to the gooey topping and using good-quality bread that holds everything together.
I first made this version on a snowy Sunday to go with a creamy tomato soup and it instantly became a family favorite. Now we keep a loaf in the freezer for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- French bread: use a thick one so it crisps on the outside and stays soft inside
- Salted butter: makes the base rich and flavorful let it soften before mixing
- Garlic: fresh cloves minced finely deliver the best punch
- Italian salad dressing: adds tangy flavor and a hint of herbs
- Parmesan cheese: adds sharpness and helps the top crisp
- Mozzarella cheese: gives you that stretchy gooey texture shred it fresh if possible
- Fresh parsley: adds color and a fresh touch right before serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Bread
- Slice the French bread in half lengthwise so you have two even flat pieces. This gives you more surface for topping and easy slicing later.
- Make Garlic Butter
- In a bowl mix softened butter garlic 1 cup of mozzarella and Italian salad dressing until smooth and well blended. This creates a flavorful spread that melts into the bread as it bakes.
- Assemble
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both bread halves. Make sure it goes edge to edge. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top then add the remaining mozzarella cheese across both pieces.
- Bake
- Place the bread on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes so the butter soaks in and the cheese begins to melt. Then turn up the heat to 450°F and bake for 8 more minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Slice and Serve
- Let the bread rest a couple minutes out of the oven. Slice into thick one inch strips. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and enjoy it warm as a side or appetizer.
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I always look forward to the moment I slice into this bread and the cheese stretches from piece to piece. The fresh garlic and warm butter aroma fills the kitchen every time. It’s also my sister’s most requested side whenever she visits.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover garlic bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze it wrap the sliced bread in foil and freeze in a bag for up to three months. Reheat frozen bread directly in the oven for best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use Italian bread or sourdough instead of French. No salad dressing Try a splash of olive oil and vinegar mixed with dried herbs. If dairy free use plant based butter and cheese options that melt well.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this garlic bread with spaghetti and meatballs or creamy soup. It also works great with salads and roasted vegetables. For extra indulgence dip it into marinara sauce or top it with fresh tomatoes and basil.
Cultural Context
Garlic bread is a classic comfort food and this version draws inspiration from Italian American cooking where cheese bread often accompanies hearty pasta dishes. The addition of salad dressing is a modern twist that gives restaurant level depth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes. French bread works best due to its crispy crust and soft interior, but Italian bread, sourdough, or thick-sliced Texas toast are good alternatives. Avoid thin sandwich bread.
- → What if I don't have Italian salad dressing?
You can create your own by mixing olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. Or skip it altogether for a still-tasty result.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute butter and cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy note without dairy.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven or microwave using low power settings.
- → Why does garlic sometimes turn green?
Garlic can turn green or blue due to acid reactions in dressings or vinegars. It’s safe to eat and won’t affect flavor.
- → How do I reheat garlic bread for best texture?
Wrap in foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through. For frozen slices, bake for 15 to 20 minutes to restore texture and flavor.