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Crispy Cheesy Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread

crispy cheesy garlic herb pull-apart bread - featured image

This crispy cheesy garlic herb pull-apart bread is a crowd-pleasing, buttery loaf packed with gooey cheese, fresh herbs, and punchy garlic. Perfect for sharing at gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in, it comes together quickly with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large crusty sourdough loaf or Italian bread (about 1 lb / 450 g, unsliced)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
  3. Place the loaf on a cutting board. Using a bread knife, cut diagonal slices about 1 inch apart, being careful not to slice all the way through. Turn the loaf and repeat in the opposite direction to form a crosshatch pattern.
  4. Gently pry open the cracks and spread the garlic herb butter deep into the cuts using a spatula or spoon.
  5. Mix mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses in a bowl. Stuff the cheese mixture into the cracks of the bread, pressing gently for even coverage.
  6. Brush the top of the loaf with olive oil using a pastry brush or spoon.
  7. Transfer the loaf to a baking sheet and tent loosely with foil.
  8. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake another 8-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  9. Let the bread cool for 5 minutes, then pull apart chunks to serve.

Notes

For best results, use a sturdy, crusty loaf and fresh herbs. You can substitute gluten-free bread or vegan cheese and butter for dietary needs. Tent with foil during baking to keep cheese gooey, then uncover for crispiness. Prep butter and cheese ahead for efficiency. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic bread, pull-apart bread, cheesy bread, appetizer, party food, easy recipe, herbs, comfort food, sharing, sourdough, Italian bread