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Best Easy Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread Recipe for Game Day

cheesy garlic pull-apart bread - featured image

This cheesy garlic pull-apart bread is the ultimate game day snack—quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious. With a crispy exterior, gooey cheese center, and garlicky butter in every bite, it’s perfect for sharing and disappears fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large loaf sourdough or Italian bread (about 1 pound)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Marinara sauce or ranch dressing, for dipping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Using a sharp serrated bread knife, cut the loaf in a grid pattern—about 1-inch slices in both directions—without cutting through the bottom crust.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Generously spread the garlic butter into every cut of the bread, getting it deep into the cracks.
  5. Stuff the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan into the cuts, alternating between the two cheeses. Push the cheese down into the cracks. Save a handful of mozzarella for the top.
  6. Place the stuffed loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
  7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown. If browning too quickly, tent loosely with aluminum foil for the last 5 minutes.
  8. Optional: Switch oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness. Watch closely.
  9. Let the bread cool on the baking sheet for 3-5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature butter and fresh garlic. Day-old bread works best as it holds up to the butter and cheese without getting soggy. You can stuff the bread up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate; add 5-7 minutes to baking time. Broiling the last 1-2 minutes gives a golden, crispy crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy garlic pull-apart bread, game day snack, pull-apart bread, garlic bread, cheesy bread, easy appetizer