Cheesy Garlic & Herb Pull-Apart Bread Casserole

Description

This Cheesy Garlic & Herb Pull-Apart Bread Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, parties, or as a side dish for soups and pastas. Fluffy bread chunks are coated with melted butter, garlic, herbs, and loads of gooey cheese, then baked until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant. It’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and absolutely addictive!

Ingredients For Cheesy Garlic & Herb Pull-Apart Bread Casserole

  • 1 large loaf French bread (or sourdough), cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)

  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)

  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

  3. Add bread cubes to the bowl and toss until all pieces are well coated.

  4. Mix in half of the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.

  5. Transfer bread mixture into the prepared baking dish.

  6. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses evenly on top.

  7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-12 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

  8. Garnish with extra parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for best texture (fresh bread can turn soggy).

  • Add cooked bacon bits, sausage, or pepperoni for a hearty twist.

  • Try different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or Monterey Jack.

  • Can be prepped ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking.

Tips

  • To make it extra crispy, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.

  • Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic butter for dipping.

  • Great as a party appetizer, side dish, or game-day snack.

  • If making for kids, skip the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor.

Servings

6–8 servings (as a side dish or appetizer).

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 360

  • Carbs: 28g

  • Protein: 12g

  • Fat: 22g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sodium: 540mg

Benefits

  • Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for gatherings, everyone loves cheesy bread.

  • Customizable – Easily add proteins, veggies, or different cheeses.

  • Comfort food – Warm, cheesy, garlicky, and satisfying.

  • Quick prep – Only 10 minutes of prep work before baking.

Q&A

Q: Can I use store-bought garlic bread instead of French bread?
A: Yes! Pre-made garlic bread works, but reduce the added garlic and butter to avoid overpowering flavors.

Q: Can this be frozen?
A: Yes, assemble the casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen (add 10–15 extra minutes).

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just substitute with gluten-free bread.

Q: What pairs well with this casserole?
A: Tomato soup, pasta, roasted chicken, or even a fresh salad.

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