Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Recipe Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large round loaf of crusty bread (sourdough or artisan loaf)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Using a sharp bread knife, cut the loaf into a crisscross pattern, creating one-inch cubes while making sure not to slice completely through the bottom. The loaf should remain intact.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Fill the Bread
Carefully open the cuts throughout the loaf and spoon the garlic herb butter into every crevice. Make sure the butter reaches as many pockets as possible for maximum flavor.
Next, stuff the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese into each opening. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the loaf.
If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle spicy kick.
Step 4: Bake
Wrap the bread loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.
Place it on a serving platter and let everyone pull apart the cheesy pieces by hand. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
- Fresh garlic provides the richest flavor compared to garlic powder.
- Don’t cut all the way through the loaf so it stays together while baking.
- Brush extra garlic butter over the top before baking for an even crispier crust.
- For added flavor, mix in cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or chopped spinach.
- Garnish with extra parsley immediately before serving for a fresh finish.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy bread pairs perfectly with:
- Tomato soup
- Creamy pasta dishes
- Grilled chicken
- Steak dinners
- Caesar salad
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
It also makes a fantastic appetizer for parties, holidays, family dinners, and game-day gatherings.
Storage
Store leftover bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and the cheese becomes melty again.
Freezing is also possible. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 365
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 320mg
- Iron: 2mg