Pull Apart Garlic Bread

Pull Apart Garlic Bread is a fun, cheesy, and irresistibly buttery dish made with layers of bread stuffed with garlic, herbs, and melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack, this crowd-pleaser is golden, gooey, and made to be shared.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

round loaf of crusty bread (like sourdough or Italian)unsalted buttergarlic (minced)parsley (chopped)mozzarella cheese (shredded)Parmesan cheese (grated)saltolive oil (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.

Using a serrated knife, cut the bread in a crosshatch pattern—slice both horizontally and vertically, being careful not to cut all the way through the bottom.

In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.

Gently pull apart the bread sections and spoon or brush the garlic butter mixture into the cracks.

Stuff shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese into the gaps between the slices.

Wrap the loaf loosely in foil and place on the baking sheet.

Bake for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden.

Serve warm and pull pieces apart to enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add crumbled cooked bacon for a savory boost.

Use cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend for different flavors.

Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic glaze before serving.

Add red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.

Swap parsley for rosemary or thyme for an herby twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.Avoid microwaving, as it softens the bread.

FAQs

What type of bread is best?

A dense, crusty loaf like sourdough or Italian holds up best.

Can I prep it ahead?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Yes, though fresh garlic provides the best flavor.

Is this freezer-friendly?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze after assembling and bake from frozen.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free loaf and confirm all other ingredients are GF-friendly.

Do I have to use foil?

Foil keeps the bread soft while the cheese melts—uncovering at the end crisps it up.

What dipping sauces go well?

Try marinara, ranch, or garlic butter for dipping.

Can I make this without cheese?

Yes, it will still be delicious with just garlic butter and herbs.

Is it messy?

A little—but that’s part of the fun! Pull-apart style is meant to be shared and enjoyed casually.

Can I use a baguette?

It’s best with a round loaf, but you can adapt the method for a long loaf by slicing diagonally.

Conclusion

Pull Apart Garlic Bread is an indulgent, cheesy, and garlicky treat that’s perfect for sharing. Whether it’s served at game night, holiday dinners, or alongside pasta, it’s always a hit—and always gone fast. Simple to make, fun to eat, and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

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