If you’re craving a snack that will wow your taste buds and impress a hungry crowd, the BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE is the one to try. Imagine: soft yet crispy Hawaiian rolls drenched in a garlicky butter custard, blanketed under a gooey layer of golden mozzarella, and finished with a kiss of fresh parsley and chili flakes. This is not just any garlic bread — it’s a warm, savory masterpiece you’ll turn to every time you want to steal the show at dinner or parties.

BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of staple ingredients, you’ll build up incredible flavor, crunch, and cheesiness. Each one plays a crucial role: from roasting the garlic for depth, to using fluffy rolls as a buttery base, nothing is wasted here!

Garlic cloves (8-10): Roasting these brings out a sweet, mellow heat that flavors every bite.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Helps the garlic roast evenly and infuses it with rich, fruity notes.
Pinch of salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the roasted garlic.
Roasted garlic (from above): The secret weapon to bold, aromatic garlic flavor.
Butter, melted (½ cup/113g): Adds classic richness and ensures a golden sheen on the bread.
Egg (1): A key to making the custard stick beautifully to every nook and cranny.
Milk (¼ cup/60g): Lightens the custard and gives it a luscious texture.
Salt (½ tsp): Boosts the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
Paprika (½ tsp): Delivers a gentle warmth and adds color for eye-catching appeal.
Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Lends a pop of color and herbal freshness.
King’s Hawaiian Original Sheet Rolls (12, whole sheet): The irresistibly soft, slightly sweet base; sub with a French baguette if desired.
Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): For that classic, melty, cheesy pull everyone loves.
Chopped parsley and chili flakes: The finishing touch for serving, offering both zing and a burst of freshness.

How to Make BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by heating your oven to 400F. Toss your peeled garlic cloves in olive oil and a pinch of salt, then tuck them into a small oven-safe pot or wrap in foil. Roast for about 20 minutes until they’re soft, golden, and smell absolutely heavenly. Once cooled, mash them with a fork — this is your flavor bomb ready for action!

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together your mashed roasted garlic, melted butter, egg, milk, salt, paprika, and fresh parsley. Stir it until everything is smooth and well combined. This custard is what takes this from just garlic bread to the BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE you’ll ever taste.

Step 3: Toast the Bread Rolls

While your oven is still warm, dial it down to 350F. With a sharp knife, slice your sheet of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating a top and a bottom slab. Arrange them on a large baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes. This step creates a sturdy and crisp base so the bread won’t get soggy later.

Step 4: Dip Bread in Custard

Pour your garlic butter custard into a larger shallow pan. Gently dip both sides of each toasted bread sheet into the custard, making sure they’re well saturated but not falling apart. The custard soaks in, promising serious flavor in every layer.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the custard-soaked bread back on your baking sheet and bake for another 15-18 minutes at 350F. The edges will get lovely and golden, and the aroma filling your kitchen will be pure magic.

Step 6: Cheese and Broil

Once your bread is golden, scatter a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Switch your oven to broil or grill mode, and broil for about 5 minutes until the cheese bubbles and blisters into golden perfection — the sight alone is irresistible!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle over chopped parsley and a touch of chili flakes for a fresh and zesty finish. Cut into slices while it’s still hot and melty — now your BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE is ready to steal the spotlight!

How to Serve BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE

Garnishes

This cheesy garlic bread begs for a last flourish of bright green parsley and a scatter of chili flakes (or even freshly cracked black pepper, if you like). A little extra garlic oil drizzled right before serving never hurts either!

Side Dishes

The BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE pairs with almost anything. Serve alongside a big bowl of classic spaghetti, creamy tomato soup, or a crisp Caesar salad. For gatherings, let it stand on its own as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your bread into chunky sticks for easy dipping, or cut into bite-sized squares for party trays. For a dramatic table moment, serve it family-style on a wooden board, piled high and piping hot, inviting everyone to dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any slices left (doubtful!), wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making them easy to enjoy with meals or as a late-night snack.

Freezing

To freeze, let the garlic bread cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to a month. Perfect for pulling out just what you need for quick snacks later on.

Reheating

For bakery-fresh results, reheat slices in the oven at 350F for about 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is gooey and the edges crisp up again. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave will do, though the oven keeps it crispier!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While King’s Hawaiian rolls give a unique sweetness and pillowy texture, you can use a French baguette or even ciabatta. Just pick a bread that’s sturdy enough to hold up to the custard soak.

Do I have to roast the garlic?

Roasting brings out a mellow, caramelized depth you can’t get from raw garlic. However, if you’re short on time, you can use finely grated raw garlic for a sharp kick — but the true BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE magic is in that roasted flavor!

What cheese works best?

Mozzarella is the crowd-pleaser for that iconic melt, but feel free to add Parmesan, provolone, or a touch of cheddar for extra flavor. Experiment with your faves or whatever you have on hand.

Can I make the garlic butter custard ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the custard up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Let it come to room temperature before you dip the bread for easier soaking and even coverage.

How do I make the BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE spicier?

Add extra chili flakes to the custard mixture or finish with thinly sliced jalapeños on top before broiling. You can also stir in a touch of cayenne pepper for an extra punch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, look no further than this BEST CHEESY GARLIC BREAD RECIPE. It’s pure comfort, ridiculously cheesy, and loaded with garlicky goodness — try it once, and you’ll never go back to store-bought again!