Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread (Pull-Apart Bread)

Calling all cheese lovers and garlic enthusiasts! This recipe for Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread (Pull-Apart Bread) offers a unique and fun twist on classic garlic bread. It’s a showstopping appetizer or irresistible side dish that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread:

• Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of melty cheese, garlicky butter, and soft bread creates an addictive flavor and texture.
• Fun and Interactive: The pull-apart format encourages everyone to grab a piece and enjoy the gooey goodness.
• Easy to Make: Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep work, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
• Highly Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic butter and cheese to your preference.

Building Your Garlicky and Gooey Delight:

• Bread: A crusty loaf like sourdough or a classic Italian loaf works best for pulling apart.
• Butter: Salted butter is creamed with garlic for a flavorful spread.
• Cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese is the star, providing melty goodness. You can explore adding parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Italian Seasoning (Optional): Adds a touch of herbaceous complexity.

Ready to Bake Up Gooey Goodness? Here’s a basic outline:

Ingredients (makes 6-8 servings):

• 1 large oblong or round crusty loaf of bread
• ½ cup salted butter, softened
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet.
2. In a small bowl, cream together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes, making sure not to cut all the way through the bottom. You can use a serrated knife for easier cutting. *Alternatively, for a diamond pattern: Starting from the top, cut diagonal slices about ¾ of the way down the loaf, stopping about an inch from the bottom. Then, rotate the loaf a quarter turn and repeat, creating a diamond pattern.
4. Gently pry open the spaces between the bread cubes and spread the garlic butter mixture generously throughout the cracks.
5. Stuff the bread crevices with shredded mozzarella cheese. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top.
6. (Optional) Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
• To ensure even distribution of garlic butter, you can melt the butter instead of creaming it. However, creaming it creates air pockets that make the bread lighter.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese offers superior flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Final Thoughts:

This Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its irresistible combination of flavors and textures makes it perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in. So, ditch the ordinary garlic bread and embrace the fun and deliciousness of this pull-apart version! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations or herb variations to personalize it to your taste.