Game nights are an excellent way to unwind, bond with friends and family, and dive into competitive fun. While the games are the main attraction, the snacks you serve can significantly enhance the experience. That’s where the ultimate cheesy garlic bread comes into play. This recipe is not just any ordinary garlic bread; it’s a game-changer—literally. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s guaranteed to make your game night unforgettable.
Ingredients:
- 1 18-inch French bread loaf: The canvas for our masterpiece.
- 3/4 cup real mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and depth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: For that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sharp, salty flavor enhancer.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley: For freshness and color.
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh chives: Adds a mild oniony flavor.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic: The heart and soul of garlic bread.
- 1 tsp onion powder: For an extra layer of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A hint of heat for those who dare.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty crowning glory.
Directions:
- Preparation Starts: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab a large baking sheet and cover it with foil, then give it a light spritz of cooking spray. This setup will make cleanup a breeze.
- Bread Prep: Take the French bread loaf and, using a serrated knife, make slits approximately 1 inch apart. Ensure you don’t slice all the way through; the goal is to keep the loaf intact at the bottom. Place the prepped bread onto your prepared pan.
- Mix It Up: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, softened butter, Parmesan, parsley, chives, minced garlic, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if using. When these ingredients are fully combined, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese until the mixture is uniform.
- Fill Those Slits: Now, take your creamy, cheesy mixture and divide it evenly between the slits in the bread. Be generous and ensure every nook and cranny is filled with flavor.
- Baking Time: Cover the bread with another piece of foil that you’ve spritzed with baking spray. This helps in cooking the bread evenly without drying it out. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the top foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your ultimate cheesy garlic bread is now ready to make its grand entrance. Serve it hot, either as a standalone snack or with a side of pizza sauce for dipping. It’s not just a dish; it’s a conversation starter, a game enhancer, and a way to bring smiles to everyone’s face.
Nutritional Information:
For those who like to keep an eye on the details, each serving (and this recipe yields about 18 pieces) comes in at approximately 202 kcal. It’s a treat worth indulging in, especially on nights filled with fun and games.
Conclusion:
With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total time of 40 minutes from start to finish, this cheesy garlic bread is a hassle-free, delicious addition to any game night. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to taste and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. So, the next time you’re planning a game night, remember that the right snack can elevate the experience from good to great. Let the games begin, and let the ultimate cheesy garlic bread be your winning move!
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Ingredients:
1 18-inch French bread loaf
3/4 cup real mayonnaise
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
2 Tbsp chopped fresh chives
1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic (May adjust to taste)
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Have nearby a large baking sheet covered with foil. Spritz lightly with cooking spray.
Use a serrated knife to cut slits in the bread approximately 1 inch apart without cutting all the way through, leaving the bottom intact. Place onto the pan.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, butter, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, garlic, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Add cheese and mix well.
Divide the cheese mixture evenly between slices. Spritz a second piece of foil with baking spray and cover the bread tightly.
Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the top foil and bake for 5 minutes longer until the top is golden.
Serve immediately as a side dish or as an appetizer with pizza sauce for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 202 kcal | Servings: 18 pieces