Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread

Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread is a warm, buttery, and irresistibly cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. With golden, crispy edges and gooey melted cheese in every bite, this pull-apart bread is ideal for parties, game nights, or as a side dish for soups and pasta. Simple to make and packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Cheesy and Buttery – Loaded with melted cheese and infused with rich garlic butter.
• Perfect for Sharing – A great appetizer or snack for gatherings.
• Customizable – Switch up the cheeses, add herbs, or include extras like bacon for variety.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bread – A round sourdough or crusty French loaf
• Butter – Unsalted, melted
• Garlic – Freshly minced for bold flavor
• Mozzarella cheese – Shredded or sliced for gooey texture
• Cheddar cheese – Adds extra sharpness and flavor
• Parmesan cheese – Optional, for a salty kick
• Parsley – Fresh, chopped for garnish
• Salt – Enhances the garlic butter flavor
• Red pepper flakes – Optional, for a little heat

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat the Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the Bread – Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts across the loaf, about 1 inch apart. Do not cut all the way through—leave the bottom intact.
3. Turn and Repeat – Make diagonal cuts in the opposite direction to create a crosshatch pattern.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave.
2. Stir in minced garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 3: Stuff with Cheese and Butter

1. Insert Cheese – Tuck mozzarella and cheddar cheese into the slits of the bread.
2. Drizzle with Butter – Pour the garlic butter evenly over the bread, making sure it seeps into the cuts.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Wrap the bread in foil and bake for 15 minutes.
2. Unwrap and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are crispy.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve warm and enjoy pulling apart each cheesy bite!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Bacon Lover’s Version – Add crispy bacon bits between the cheese layers.
• Herb and Garlic – Mix in rosemary or thyme for extra aroma.
• Spicy Kick – Use pepper jack cheese and extra red pepper flakes.
• Ranch-Style – Drizzle with ranch dressing before serving.
• Pesto Twist – Spread a layer of basil pesto inside before adding the cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or in an air fryer for a crispier texture.
• Freezing – Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

What type of bread works best?

A crusty round sourdough or French loaf is best as it holds its shape and crisps up nicely.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but fresh shredded cheese melts better and has a richer flavor.

How do I prevent the bread from drying out?

Wrapping the bread in foil while baking keeps it soft, then removing the foil at the end makes it crispy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the bread, wrap it in foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What dipping sauces pair well with this bread?

Marinara sauce, garlic butter, ranch, or a creamy cheese dip work great.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Try Gruyère, provolone, gouda, or fontina for different flavors.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Garlic powder can be substituted, but fresh garlic provides the best taste.

How do I make it even crispier?

Bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to enhance crispiness.

Is this bread good for parties?

Yes! It’s a fun, pull-apart appetizer that’s perfect for sharing.

Can I make it in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, checking frequently.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that’s loaded with gooey cheese and rich garlic butter. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack, this bread is always a hit. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness!