Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic Bread is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves gooey cheese and bold garlic flavors. This bread is soft and warm on the inside, packed with melted cheese and garlicky butter that’s perfect for sharing (or not!). The fun part is pulling the bread apart piece by piece, making every bite a little celebration of cheesy goodness.
I love making this bread when friends come over or for a cozy night in. It’s super easy to prepare, and filling the bread with cheese and garlic butter is a simple trick that always impresses. My tip is to use a good amount of cheese so you get those stretchy, melty pieces that make it hard to stop eating.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic Bread is alongside a big bowl of soup or a fresh salad. It’s great for soaking up sauces or just eating on its own with a cup of tea or a cold drink. Whenever I make it, the whole house smells amazing, and everyone ends up gathering around the table, reaching for another cheesy pull-apart piece!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Choose a round crusty loaf like sourdough or boule. The sturdy crust holds the cheese and butter well. If you can’t find this, a sturdy French bread or Italian loaf also works.
Butter & Garlic: Butter gives a rich, creamy base for the garlic. Use unsalted so you can control salt levels. Fresh garlic adds strong, fresh flavor—avoid garlic powder for this recipe.
Cheese: Mozzarella is key for the stretchy, gooey texture. You can mix it with cheddar for extra taste or use provolone. Parmesan on top adds a nutty crust. For dairy-free, try vegan cheeses that melt well.
Fresh Parsley: Adds brightness to balance the richness. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried works, but use less.
How Do You Cut the Bread Without It Falling Apart?
Cutting the bread in a grid pattern is crucial but tricky. Follow these tips for success:
- Use a sharp bread knife for clean cuts.
- Slice about 1-inch apart both lengthwise and crosswise, but stop about half an inch from the bottom crust. This keeps the base intact.
- Go slow and gently wiggle the knife instead of pressing hard, which helps keep the loaf stable.
- Once cut, carefully separate the cubes just enough to fill with butter and cheese without breaking the loaf apart.
This method ensures your bread holds together while baking and makes pulling apart those cheesy pieces super easy and fun!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sharp bread knife – I recommend this for making clean, precise cuts without tearing the bread.
- Medium mixing bowl – perfect for mixing the garlic butter and herbs so everything is well combined.
- Brush or spoon – helps to evenly spread the garlic butter into all the cuts in the bread.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – line your baking sheet to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Baking sheet – to hold the bread while it bakes and spreads the heat evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace mozzarella with pepper Jack or provolone for different cheese flavors and a little spice.
- Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms into the cheese for extra savory bites.
- Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the butter for a Mediterranean twist.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme on top before baking for extra aroma and flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sharp bread knife – for making clean, careful cuts in the bread without tearing.
- Medium mixing bowl – to mix together the garlic butter and herbs evenly.
- Brush or spoon – to spread the garlic butter down into the bread cuts.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – to line your baking sheet for easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Baking sheet – to hold the bread while it bakes and helps it cook evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try swapping mozzarella for pepper jack or provolone cheese for a little different flavor and melt.
- Add cooked crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms inside the bread for hearty, savory bites.
- Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers with the garlic butter for a tasty Mediterranean twist.
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme over the bread before baking for extra aroma and freshness.
- For a spicy version, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika to the butter mixture.
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh bread to get the perfect texture and flavor. If you only have frozen bread, thaw it completely at room temperature before cutting and stuffing to avoid sogginess.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the bread with the garlic butter and cheese, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover garlic bread in an airtight container or wrap it in foil, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore crispness and melt the cheese again.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Absolutely! Mozzarella is great for stretchiness, but feel free to mix in cheddar, provolone, or even gouda to match your flavor preferences. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the best results.