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Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe – Bake with Zoha | Buttery, Gooey & Irresistible

Few things are as comforting as the smell of freshly baked garlic bread wafting from the oven. This Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe combines the buttery richness of garlic, the freshness of parsley, and the gooey melt of mozzarella to create a side dish that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying. Using King’s Hawaiian rolls adds a hint of sweetness that balances the savory garlic butter perfectly, while roasting some of the garlic deepens the flavor for a richer, caramelized taste. This recipe is ideal for pairing with pasta, soups, grilled meats, or serving as an appetizer at gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruits & Vegetables:
  • 8 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 roasted garlic bulb from the 8 cloves above, roast separately
  • 2 tbsp parsley fresh, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp parsley and chili flakes mixed
Fresh Products:
  • 1 egg for egg wash
  • Culinary Aids & Spices:
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 pinch salt
  • ½ tsp salt extra for garlic butter
Oils & Vinegars:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
Bread & Pastries:
  • 12 King’s Hawaiian original Hawaiian sheet rolls
Dairy Products:
  • ½ cup butter unsalted
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or oven-safe dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Small saucepan
  • Sharp knife
  • Pastry brush
  • Aluminum foil (optional, to cover while baking)

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic
  1. Roast 1 garlic bulb by slicing off the top, drizzling with olive oil, wrapping in foil, and baking at 180°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes until soft.
  2. Mince the remaining fresh garlic cloves.
Step 2: Make Garlic Butter
  1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not burn).
  3. Mash roasted garlic into a paste and stir into the butter.
  4. Add parsley, parsley with chili flakes, paprika, and ½ tsp salt. Mix well.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Place the Hawaiian rolls onto a baking sheet.
  3. Without cutting all the way through, slice the rolls horizontally to create a top and bottom layer.
Step 4: Assemble
  1. Brush half the garlic butter onto the cut sides of the rolls.
  2. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom half.
  3. Place the top layer of bread back on.
  4. Brush the remaining garlic butter over the top.
Step 5: Egg Wash & Milk Mix
  1. Whisk egg with milk and brush lightly over the tops of the rolls for a golden finish.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
  2. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is fully melted and tops are golden.
Step 7: Serve
  1. Slice and serve warm for the ultimate cheesy, garlicky bite.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating:
Wrap in foil and reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 8–10 minutes.
🥄 Variations
Cheddar Garlic Bread: Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar.
Herb Lovers’ Bread: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the garlic butter.
Spicy Kick: Increase chili flakes for extra heat.
Stuffed Garlic Bread: Add cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms before baking.
Four-Cheese Version: Mix mozzarella, parmesan, provolone, and gouda.
Garlic Parmesan: Sprinkle parmesan over the top before baking.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Yes—French bread or baguettes work well too.
2. Do I need to roast the garlic?
No—but it adds a sweet, mellow flavor that’s worth the step.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—assemble, wrap in foil, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.
4. Can I use salted butter?
Yes—just reduce added salt.
5. What cheese melts best?
Mozzarella for gooeyness, but you can mix with provolone or cheddar.
6. Can I make it vegan?
Yes—use plant-based butter and cheese.
7. Can I grill instead of bake?
Yes—wrap in foil and heat over medium grill for 10–12 minutes.
8. How do I prevent soggy bread?
Avoid adding too much butter or covering too tightly while cooling.
9. Can I freeze before baking?
Yes—freeze assembled bread and bake directly from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.
10. Can I add meat?
Yes—add cooked chicken or turkey slices for extra protein.
🏁 Conclusion
This Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe – Bake with Zoha is everything you want in a comfort food side dish: buttery, cheesy, garlicky, and perfectly soft inside with a crisp golden crust. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special gatherings.