Name: Cheesy Garlic Bread Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 round bread boule (sourdough or artisan); 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Golden, crusty artisan bread meets rich garlic butter and a molten cheese core in this Cheesy Garlic Bread Bowl. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s a crowd-pleasing centerpiece perfect for sharing at parties, game nights, or cozy evenings in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bread bowl offers everything you love about garlic bread, elevated into a dramatic, shareable format. The aromatic garlic herb butter seeps into the bread, while the gooey mix of mozzarella and cheddar provides the ultimate cheese pull. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and makes a stunning addition to any appetizer spread or indulgent snack table.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 round bread boule (sourdough or artisan)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Slice a circular lid from the top of the bread boule and hollow out the center, leaving a sturdy wall around the edges.
In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, garlic, parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Brush the inside of the hollowed bread and the underside of the lid with the garlic butter mixture.
Fill the hollowed center with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Replace the bread lid and brush the entire exterior of the bread with the remaining garlic butter.
Place the bread bowl on the prepared baking tray and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
Garnish with extra parsley before serving. Pull pieces from the loaf or tear and dip for a melty, flavorful experience.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 320 kcal

Variations

Add Protein: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon or sausage with the cheese for a heartier dish.
Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for more heat.
Herb Upgrade: Incorporate rosemary, thyme, or oregano for additional depth of flavor.
Vegan Alternative: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter for a vegan version.
Mini Bread Bowls: Use smaller individual bread rolls for personal-sized servings.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the wrapped bread bowl in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.

FAQs

What type of bread is best for this recipe?

A sturdy round boule such as sourdough or rustic artisan bread works best, as it holds its shape and absorbs the garlic butter without becoming soggy.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the bread bowl a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

How do I prevent the cheese from spilling out?

Ensure that enough of the bread is left along the sides and bottom after hollowing it out to contain the melted cheese.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese from a block tends to melt more smoothly and offers better flavor.

What’s the best way to serve this?

Serve it hot from the oven, allowing guests to tear off chunks or dip pieces into the melted center.

Can I add other fillings?

Certainly. Cooked spinach, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions.

How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?

The amount listed adds just a hint of heat. You can adjust it to your preference or omit it altogether.

Is it possible to use different cheese combinations?

Yes, feel free to mix in Gruyère, provolone, or fontina for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze the bread bowl?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the bread and cheese may change undesirably upon thawing.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic provides the most robust flavor, but you can substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if needed.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Garlic Bread Bowl is a standout recipe that combines the familiar comfort of garlic bread with the dramatic appeal of molten cheese. Whether you’re entertaining or simply indulging, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy. It’s easy, adaptable, and destined to become a favorite for all occasions.

Cheesy Garlic Bread Bowl

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Golden, crusty bread soaked in a rich garlic herb butter, stuffed with gooey melted cheese and baked until irresistibly bubbly—perfect as a shareable appetizer or indulgent snack.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Carefully cut a circular lid from the top of the bread boule and hollow out the center, leaving enough bread around the edges to hold the filling.
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Brush the inside of the hollowed bread and underside of the lid with the garlic butter mixture.
Fill the center of the bread with mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then place the lid back on top.
Brush the entire exterior of the bread with more garlic butter and place it on the prepared tray.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
Garnish with extra parsley and serve hot, pulling pieces apart or dipping chunks into the cheesy center.