I love trying new recipes in the kitchen. Stuffed garlic bread is a favorite because it’s simple yet flavorful. It’s great for any meal or special event. My version adds gooey cheese, herbs, and a bit of spice.
This dish is special because of its creamy texture and strong flavors. The cheese and garlic butter make it delicious.
You can also change it up to fit your taste or dietary needs. Let me show you how to make this tasty treat.
Table of Contents
Benefits
Making this dish brings people together. The smell of garlic and cheese is irresistible. It’s perfect for cozy moments with family and friends. Plus, it’s great for any time, like an appetizer or a late-night snack.
Extra Information
Nutritional Value (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 10g
Occasions
It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, potlucks, or holidays.
Cost
It’s affordable, even with store-brand ingredients. You can save money by using cottage cheese instead of ricotta or skipping cream cheese.
Try this easy, cheesy stuffed garlic bread recipe. It’s crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside. Your guests will ask for more!
Ingredients
(Serves 6-8)
For the bread:
- 1 large French baguette (or Italian loaf), slightly stale works best
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Extra parsley for sprinkling
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside. This aromatic butter will infuse the bread with incredible flavor.
Step 2: Slice the Bread
Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the baguette lengthwise without cutting all the way through. You want the two halves connected at the base so they can hold the filling securely. Or, make diagonal cuts along the top of the loaf, leaving about 1 inch intact at the bottom.
Step 3: Assemble the Filling
In another bowl, combine the mozzarella, Parmesan, ricotta, and cream cheese. Stir until smooth and well-blended. Season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Drizzle in the olive oil for added richness.
Step 4: Stuff the Bread
Spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over the inside surfaces of the bread. Next, spoon the cheese mixture generously into the cavity or between the slices, ensuring each section gets filled. Press lightly to help the filling adhere.
Step 5: Seal and Bake
Once stuffed, close the bread back together if sliced lengthwise. Wrap the entire loaf tightly in aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from spilling out during baking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Final Touches
Remove the foil, brush the remaining garlic butter over the exposed surface of the bread, and return it to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and crispy. Garnish with fresh basil and parsley before slicing and serving.
Useful Tips
- For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top before the final bake.
- Use gluten-free bread to cater to dietary restrictions.
- Double-wrap the foil to avoid leaks if transporting the bread.
Check out this recipe: Spinach And Feta Breakfast Quesadilla: A Savory Start
Additional Information
- Level of Difficulty: Easy
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Portion: Serves 6-8 people
Equipment Needed
I use a few basic tools for this recipe. A serrated knife is key for slicing bread without squishing it. I also use mixing bowls for the garlic butter and cheese filling.
Aluminum foil wraps the bread, and a baking sheet is used in the oven. These tools are probably in your kitchen, making the recipe easy to start.
Special Care
Be careful with the hot bread after baking. It’s best to let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing. If you’re taking the bread somewhere, double-wrap it in foil to avoid spills. Watch the bread closely during the final bake to prevent burning. It should be golden brown and crispy.
Recipe Variations
I love trying new things in the kitchen. For a lighter version, I use low-fat cheeses or a whole-grain baguette. For a vegan option, I replace butter with plant-based margarine and use dairy-free cheeses.
Adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the cheese mixture adds flavor and color. Sometimes, I add crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions for a savory twist. Each change brings something new to the dish, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Side Dishes
I pair this garlic bread with dishes that complement its rich flavors. A bowl of creamy tomato soup is a classic choice. For pasta nights, it’s great with spaghetti carbonara or baked ziti.
At dinner parties, it’s perfect with a Caesar salad or a charcuterie board. It also goes well with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a lighter option. This garlic bread is sure to be a hit, no matter what you serve it with.
Presentation Tips
Good presentation makes food look as tasty as it tastes. I let the bread cool slightly before slicing it. Then, I garnish it with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A drizzle of olive oil adds a glossy finish.
Serving it on a wooden cutting board or rustic ceramic plate adds charm. Surrounding it with marinara sauce or balsamic glaze makes it inviting. These touches make a big difference!
Closing Sentence
“There’s something magical about pulling apart warm, cheesy garlic bread—the kind of magic that turns ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.”