Introduction
I’m always on the lookout for easy and delicious ways to bring comfort food to the table, and these cheesy garlic bread bites are my go-to. The moment I first made them, I knew they would become a regular in my kitchen. Picture this: fluffy bread, a savory garlicky topping, and melty cheese. It’s like all your favorite parts of garlic bread, but in bite-sized pieces. These little morsels are the perfect balance of crunchy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside. I couldn’t stop at just one. Before I knew it, the entire tray was gone.
These cheesy garlic bread bites are incredibly versatile too! They work as a perfect appetizer for a party, a side dish for dinner, or just a quick snack to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving something cheesy and garlicky, these bites are guaranteed to steal the show. Plus, they’re simple to make with only a handful of ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
These cheesy garlic bread bites can be served as a snack, side dish, or appetizer. They pair wonderfully with pastas, soups, or even a fresh salad.
Budget-Friendly
With only a few ingredients—bread, garlic, butter, and cheese—you can make a big batch without breaking the bank. It’s a perfect recipe when you’re on a budget but still want to impress.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
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4 tablespoons butter, softened
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make This Recipe
These cheesy garlic bread bites are incredibly simple to make, and they come together in just a few steps. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these bites are sure to be a hit. Here’s how to prepare them:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven is key for getting those crispy, golden edges while keeping the bread soft inside. You can also line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Slice the bread
Take your loaf of French or Italian bread and slice it into thick pieces, about 1 inch wide. Then, cut each slice into quarters or smaller pieces, depending on the size of bites you want. You should end up with about 16–20 bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about them being perfect—rustic is part of the charm!
Step 3: Prepare the garlic butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the butter is fully incorporated with the garlic and spices. If you want to take the flavor up a notch, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Step 4: Butter the bread
Spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture onto each piece of bread. Be sure to coat each bite evenly so every piece gets that savory, garlicky flavor. Don’t rush this step—get all the corners and edges, as that’s where the magic happens.
Step 5: Add the cheese
Once the bread is buttered, it’s time to add the cheese. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over each bite first—this creates a crispy, golden layer. Then, top with the shredded mozzarella. The mozzarella melts beautifully, giving you those gooey, cheesy bites you crave. You can even add extra cheese for a more indulgent version!
Step 6: Arrange the bites on a baking sheet
Place the cheesy garlic bread bites on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them crisp up evenly on all sides. Make sure the cheese is not spilling over too much—this will prevent it from burning while baking.
Step 7: Bake in the oven
Put the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. After 10 minutes, check on your bites. You want them to be golden brown and the cheese melted and bubbly. If you prefer a crunchier texture, leave them in for an additional 2–3 minutes. You can also turn on the broiler for the last minute to give them that final golden crisp on top.
Step 8: Garnish and serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the garlic bread bites with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of color and freshness. You can serve them immediately, as they’re best enjoyed hot and fresh. Pair with marinara sauce or a garlic dipping sauce for the perfect complement.
Quick and Easy
This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, from start to finish. There’s no need to worry about complicated steps or ingredients. It’s the kind of recipe that fits perfectly into your busy day while still delivering a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Customizable
These cheesy garlic bread bites are easy to customize based on what you have at home or what flavors you prefer. For a more robust flavor, you can add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms. Want a little spice? Sprinkle some chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture. You can even swap out the mozzarella for a different cheese, like cheddar or gouda, depending on your taste.
Perfect for Guests
If you’re hosting a party or casual dinner, these cheesy garlic bread bites are the ideal appetizer. They’re bite-sized, which makes them easy to share, and they’re guaranteed to please all types of guests. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, salad, or as a standalone treat, they never fail to impress.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make these garlic bread bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture and slice the bread ahead of time. Store the slices of bread and butter mixture separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, assemble the bites and bake them. They’re best fresh out of the oven, but preparing them in advance saves you time.
What can I dip these cheesy garlic bread bites in?
These bites are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a dip! Try pairing them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a garlic butter dip. If you’re feeling adventurous, a creamy spinach dip or buffalo sauce would also complement the cheesy flavor.
Can I make these garlic bread bites without butter?
If you’re looking for a healthier or dairy-free alternative, you can use olive oil instead of butter. Simply brush the bread slices with olive oil and then follow the rest of the recipe. You can also try vegan butter if you’re following a plant-based diet.
Can I freeze these cheesy garlic bread bites?
Yes! To freeze, assemble the bites as directed, but don’t bake them. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply pop them into the oven straight from the freezer and bake for about 15–20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).