Print

Crispy Cheese Pull Garlic Bread Stuffed with Mozzarella Herbs

crispy cheese pull garlic bread - featured image

A delicious garlic bread with crispy edges, gooey mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs that create a perfect flavor balance. Ideal for a quick snack or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 rustic Italian or French bread loaf, about 12 inches long
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
  • 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon fresh oregano
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Slice the bread crosswise into 1 to 1.5-inch thick slices, leaving about 1/2 inch at the bottom intact to keep the loaf together.
  3. In a small bowl, mix softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes or Parmesan if using.
  4. Spread the herb garlic butter generously into each cut of the bread, inside the slits and on top.
  5. Stuff slices or shreds of mozzarella cheese into each slit between the bread slices.
  6. Optionally, wrap the loaf tightly in foil to keep it moist during the first part of baking.
  7. Place the wrapped loaf on the baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
  8. Unwrap the loaf and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
  9. If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes to increase crispness, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to settle.

Notes

Use softened butter for better spreading and absorption. Pat mozzarella dry if very moist to avoid soggy bread. Wrapping the bread in foil for the first 15 minutes traps steam and melts cheese without drying out the bread. Let the bread rest before serving to avoid burning your mouth with molten cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic bread, mozzarella, cheese pull, herbs, crispy bread, appetizer, snack, easy recipe