Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites are the ultimate snack, appetizer, or side dish, packed with all the irresistible flavors of garlic bread, but in bite-sized form. With crispy edges, gooey melted cheese, and a garlicky, buttery interior, these bites are a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone reaching for more. Whether you’re serving them for a casual get-together, as a game day treat, or as a cheesy accompaniment to pasta or salads, these bites are always a hit.

I remember the first time I made these for a family dinner. The kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and melted cheese, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. What’s great about these bites is how versatile they are—you can customize the cheese to your liking, adding a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan for extra flavor. They’re perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with marinara sauce or a creamy dipping sauce for added indulgence.

These bites are surprisingly simple to make, too. With just a few basic ingredients and a quick trip to the oven, you can have a batch of cheesy, garlicky goodness in no time. Whether you’re looking to impress at a party, add a cheesy side to your meal, or just enjoy a comforting snack, Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites are sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

  • Movie nights
  • Game day snacks
  • Appetizers for parties
  • Quick side dish with pasta
  • Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites will quickly become your favorite go-to snack:

  • Cheese Overload: A combination of melted mozzarella and Parmesan creates a cheesy, gooey center with a deliciously crispy exterior.
  • Garlicky Goodness: The rich, buttery garlic mixture infuses every bite, bringing that classic garlic bread flavor.
  • Bite-Sized Convenience: These bites are easy to eat with your hands, making them perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
  • Crispy and Soft Texture: The bread gets perfectly crispy on the outside while staying soft and chewy inside.
  • Quick to Prepare: Ready in just under 30 minutes, these bites are a fast and easy way to satisfy your cravings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites:

For the Garlic Butter Mixture:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For the Bites:

  • 1 loaf of Italian or French bread (sliced into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Ingredient Highlights

  • Mozzarella Cheese: Creates that gooey, melty center that is the hallmark of a cheesy garlic bread bite.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor that complements the mozzarella and enhances the overall taste.
  • Butter and Garlic: This classic duo is the base of the flavor, giving the bites that rich, garlicky aroma and taste.
  • Italian Herbs: Oregano and parsley bring an herbaceous, savory note that pairs perfectly with the garlic butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites:

Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:

  1. Melt the Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stove.
  2. Add the Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until the garlic is evenly distributed in the butter.

Assemble the Bites:

  1. Prepare the Bread: Slice the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Toss the Bread with Garlic Butter: Pour the garlic butter mixture over the bread cubes, tossing until each cube is coated with the flavorful butter mixture.

Add the Cheese:

  1. Top with Mozzarella and Parmesan: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan over the buttered bread cubes, tossing again to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout.

Bake the Bites:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake: Spread the cheesy, buttered bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you want a crispier finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let the bites cool slightly. Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

How to Serve

  • With Marinara Sauce: Serve alongside marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
  • As a Side to Pasta: Pair with your favorite pasta dish for a comforting meal.
  • Game Day Snack: Serve as an easy-to-eat snack during game nights or parties.
  • With Salad: Perfect as a side with fresh salads.
  • With a Garlic Parmesan Dip: Serve with a creamy dip for an extra flavor boost.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder.
  • Customize the Cheese: Add provolone or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
  • Double the Recipe: If you’re serving a crowd, simply double the recipe and bake on two sheets.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and bread cubes ahead of time, then bake when ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

  1. Cheesy Garlic Herb Bread Bites – Add a mix of fresh herbs like basil and thyme for an earthy flavor.
  2. Spicy Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites – Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
  3. Cheesy Bacon Garlic Bread Bites – Sprinkle cooked bacon bits over the bites before baking for added flavor.
  4. Cheddar and Chive Garlic Bread Bites – Use sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives for a tangy twist.
  5. Parmesan and Garlic Breadsticks – Instead of cubes, cut the bread into sticks for a breadstick version of this recipe.
  6. Cheesy Jalapeño Garlic Bread Bites – Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  7. Mozzarella Stuffed Garlic Bread Bites – Place small cubes of mozzarella inside the bread cubes before baking for a gooey surprise.
  8. Vegan Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites – Use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese for a plant-based version.
  9. Garlic Parmesan Knots – Instead of bread cubes, tie the dough into knots for a fun, bite-sized alternative.
  10. Pesto Garlic Bread Bites – Add pesto to the butter mixture for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Allow the bites to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a crispy texture.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.

Special Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Pastry brush (optional for applying garlic butter)

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can use sourdough, French bread, or even a baguette.
  2. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and bread cubes in advance, then bake when ready to serve.
  3. Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely! Try a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan for varied flavors.
  4. Can I make these spicy? Yes, add extra red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for heat.
  5. How can I keep these crispy? Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites are the ultimate blend of garlicky, cheesy goodness with a crispy, buttery crunch. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick snack, serving them as a party appetizer, or pairing them with your favorite meal, they are sure to steal the spotlight every time!

With their irresistible flavor and satisfying texture, these bite-sized delights are always a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite cheeses or herbs, Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites bring the perfect balance of savory and cheesy in each bite.

I’d love to see how your Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Leave a Comment