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This cheesy garlic pull apart bread is my go to crowd pleaser whenever guests drop in or we are gearing up for game day. Fresh out of the oven with gooey cheese melting through every crevice this bread begs to be pulled apart and devoured on sight.
The first time I served this was during a last minute Sunday football get together. It disappeared before halftime and now it is a required staple every game day.
Ingredients
- French or sourdough loaf: choose a firm crusty bread for structure and chew
- Salted butter: brings flavor and ensures the bread crisps while staying moist inside
- Mozzarella cheese: for classic stretchy melted cheese effect
- Parmesan cheese: adds saltiness and depth pick a fresh block over pre shredded
- Garlic powder: makes it unmistakably garlicky and aromatic
- Onion powder: complements garlic for a round savory profile
- Italian seasoning: a balanced herb blend that enhances the overall flavor
- Fresh chives: optional but recommended for color and mild onion freshness
- Marinara sauce: optional for dipping adds tangy contrast to the richness
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a sharp bread knife slice the loaf into one inch wide strips going only three fourths of the way down. Rotate and slice crosswise creating a grid without cutting through the bottom.
- Make the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl melt the salted butter. Stir in garlic powder onion powder and Italian seasoning. Mix well until the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Brush the Bread:
- With a pastry brush or spoon apply the seasoned butter mixture generously across the surface and into every cut making sure all nooks absorb the flavors.
- Add the Cheese:
- In another bowl mix shredded mozzarella and parmesan together. Gently stuff the cheese into each slit making sure all interior pieces get a good amount of cheese.
- Cover and Bake:
- Place the loaf on a baking tray and tent it tightly with foil. Bake for twenty minutes allowing the cheese to melt and infuse into the bread.
- Uncover and Finish Baking:
- Remove the foil and continue baking for five to ten more minutes until the top turns golden and the edges crisp up beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot. Sprinkle chopped chives for freshness. Offer marinara sauce on the side if desired.
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My favorite part of this dish is watching the steam escape and strings of cheese stretch as each piece is pulled out. It reminds me of Sunday nights with my kids arguing over who gets the cheesiest chunk.
Storage Tips
Once baked this bread is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Leftovers can be stored in a sealed container for up to one day at room temperature or up to three days refrigerated. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit tented with foil until warm and melty again.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use unsalted butter and add a pinch of sea salt if you prefer more control over sodium. Swap in cheddar for mozzarella if you like a sharper flavor or use a pre blended Italian cheese mix for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Place this bread in the center of a party table and let everyone pull pieces off as they please. It pairs well with hearty soups creamy pasta or a platter of roasted vegetables. It is also excellent with beer cheese or spinach artichoke dip.
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Cultural Context
Pull apart breads have their roots in social and family style dining where everyone helps themselves. The garlic and herb combination speaks to Mediterranean and Italian influences making it a warm nostalgic food across many tables.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, French or sourdough loaves work best, but you can try other crusty artisan-style breads for similar results.
- → How do I keep the bread from drying out?
Cover the bread with foil while baking and don’t skip the butter—it helps retain moisture and crisp the crust.
- → Can I make this in advance?
You can prep the bread and refrigerate it before baking. Bake when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
- → What cheese works best for pull apart bread?
Mozzarella provides stretchiness while parmesan adds richness. You can use a blend or just one type based on your taste.
- → How should I serve this bread?
Serve warm with marinara sauce or pair it with soups, grilled meats, or dips. It’s also great as part of a party spread.
- → Can I freeze pull apart bread?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to one month. Thaw before baking and follow the standard cooking instructions.