Garlic Parmesan PullApart recipe stepbystep hacks quick prep gooey cheese layers herb butter timesaving tech crowdpleasing tips ready in 30m
Ingredients
Scale
1 round loaf of crusty bread (about 12–16 oz) — sourdough or boule
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
4–6 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan
1–1½ cups shredded mozzarella (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Zest of ½ lemon (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
Place the bread on a cutting board. Using a sharp bread knife, make cuts about 1″ apart across the loaf both horizontally and vertically, creating a crosshatch pattern—stop about ½” from the bottom so the loaf stays intact.
In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, lemon zest (if using), and half the parsley. Let the mixture sit 1–2 minutes so the garlic softens slightly.
Gently pull open each cut and spoon or brush the butter mixture into the crevices, making sure liquid gets deep into the loaf. Tuck shredded mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan into the larger gaps—aim for even distribution. Press the loaf closed lightly so it holds shape but still has cheese pockets.
Wrap the loaf loosely in foil (shiny side in) and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes so the butter melts and the cheese becomes gooey.
Carefully open the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5–8 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. Edges should be toasted and cheese slightly browned in spots.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle remaining Parmesan and parsley on top, and let rest 2–3 minutes so everything sets slightly. For a crispier top, broil 1–2 minutes while watching closely.
Transfer to a board, garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil, and serve warm. Best served within 20–30 minutes for peak gooeyness.
Notes
Warm, cheesy garlic Parmesan pull-apart bread — a simple, dramatic appetizer made with a crusty round loaf, garlic-butter, Parmesan and optional mozzarella and herbs. Easy to assemble ahead and perfect for parties or weeknights.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Calories:320 calories
Sugar:2 grams
Fat:18 grams
Carbohydrates:28 grams
Fiber:2 grams
Protein:10 grams
Keywords: garlic, parmesan, pull-apart bread, appetizer, party bread, cheesy bread
