Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread

Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread is a warm, buttery, and cheesy appetizer perfect for sharing. Made with crusty bread, melted cheese, and a flavorful garlic butter sauce, this pull-apart dish is ideal for parties, game nights, or as a side to soups and pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside.
• A quick and easy crowd-pleaser.
• Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack.
• Fully customizable with different cheeses and seasonings.
• No special skills required—just slice, stuff, and bake.

Ingredients

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

• Crusty bread (such as sourdough or French bread)
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the bread: Using a sharp knife, make deep diagonal cuts across the bread, being careful not to cut all the way through. Repeat in the opposite direction to create a grid pattern.
3. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stuff the bread: Generously brush the garlic butter mixture into the cuts. Stuff shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan into the spaces.
5. Bake: Wrap the bread loosely in foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm: Sprinkle with extra parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes for extra heat.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in dried oregano, basil, or thyme for a more aromatic flavor.
• Meaty Version: Stuff with cooked crumbled bacon or pepperoni.
• Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
• Sweet Option: Use cinnamon sugar and cream cheese for a dessert version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Wrap leftovers tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze assembled (but unbaked) bread in an airtight bag for up to 1 month. Thaw before baking.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer at 325°F for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use pre-sliced bread?

No, a whole loaf is best to prevent the bread from falling apart.

What type of bread works best?

Crusty breads like sourdough, French bread, or ciabatta hold up well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bread and refrigerate it, then bake it when ready to serve.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better and has a richer flavor.

How do I keep the bread from burning?

Cover it with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then uncover for the final 10 minutes.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon make great additions.

Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheese.

How do I make the bread extra crispy?

Bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes for a crunchier crust.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, but butter adds more flavor and richness.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with soups, pasta, grilled meats, or as an appetizer on its own.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread is a simple yet irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its golden crust, gooey cheese, and garlicky flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at parties, family dinners, or game nights. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear within minutes.