Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread, also known as pull-apart bread, is a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any gathering. Loaded with garlic butter and ooey-gooey cheese, this bread is simple to prepare yet impressive in both presentation and taste. Serve it at parties, game nights, or as a side dish for dinner.
Ingredients for Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread
To make this flavorful Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread, you’ll need:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread (such as sourdough or ciabatta)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Fresh Basil Leaves for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Bread:
- Using a serrated knife, cut the bread in a crosshatch pattern. Be careful not to cut all the way through to the bottom, leaving the base of the loaf intact. This will allow you to stuff the cracks with cheese and garlic butter.
- Make the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and minced garlic. Use a pastry brush or spoon to carefully drizzle the garlic butter mixture into the cracks of the bread.
- Stuff the Bread:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese between the cuts of the bread, stuffing it as evenly as possible.
- Bake:
- Wrap the bread loosely in foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Unwrap the bread and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the top to get golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped Fresh Basil or parsley and serve warm. Pair with marinara sauce for dipping or as a side with Creamy Tuscan Chicken or Crock-Pot Pork Loin.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences:
- Different Cheeses: Swap out mozzarella and cheddar for Gruyère, provolone, or Parmesan for a more sophisticated flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter for a spicy variation.
- Herbed Butter: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor in the garlic butter.
Serve this bread alongside Garlic and Herb Roasted Vegetables or a fresh Quinoa Salad with Figs and Goat Cheese for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread
This Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread is the ultimate snack or appetizer for sharing. The crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy interior make it irresistible, while the garlic butter adds an extra layer of flavor. It’s simple to make, visually impressive, and always a hit at parties or family gatherings.
For more cheesy delights, try our Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake or Magic Cookie Mania.
FAQs About Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread
1. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread by stuffing it with cheese and garlic butter, then wrap it tightly in foil and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze this bread?
You can freeze this bread before baking. Once stuffed with cheese and garlic butter, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw the bread overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
3. What’s the best bread to use for this recipe?
A sturdy loaf with a good crust, such as sourdough or ciabatta, works best for Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it may not hold up to the stuffing and baking process.