Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread (Pull Apart Bread)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple ingredients turn into something incredibly flavorful.

I enjoy the crispy crust paired with the soft, cheesy interior.

I also like how fun it is to serve and share, making it perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 crusty loaf (preferably sourdough or Vienna)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or other melting cheese)
100 g unsalted butter, softened
2 large garlic cloves, minced
3/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Directions

I preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

I combine the butter, garlic, and salt in a bowl and melt it, then stir in the parsley.

I cut the bread diagonally into a diamond pattern, making sure not to slice all the way through.

I gently open each cut and drizzle in some garlic butter, then stuff in a bit of cheese.

I brush the top of the loaf with the remaining butter.

I wrap the bread in foil and bake it until the cheese is melted.

I unwrap it and bake a little longer until the top becomes crispy.

I serve it immediately while it is hot and gooey.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes covered + 5–10 minutes uncovered
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I like using a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for more flavor.

I sometimes add cooked bacon bits or herbs for extra richness.

I can sprinkle chili flakes for a bit of heat.

For a different twist, I add pesto or sun-dried tomatoes.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

I reheat it in the oven so the bread stays crispy and the cheese melts again.

I avoid microwaving too long because it can make the bread chewy.

FAQs

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the bread and keep it wrapped in the fridge, then bake it when ready.

What bread works best?

I prefer sourdough or any crusty loaf that holds its shape well.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Yes, I can use it, but fresh garlic gives better flavor.

How do I keep it from getting soggy?

I avoid adding too much butter in one spot and bake uncovered at the end.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, I freeze it before baking and bake it straight from frozen, adding extra time.

Conclusion

Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread is a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish with bold garlic flavor and melty cheese in every bite. I like making it when I want something warm, comforting, and easy to share.