Parmesan Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
Parmesan Garlic Pull-Apart Bread is the perfect mix of crispy, cheesy, and buttery goodness all wrapped up in soft, fluffy bread. The crispy golden edges have that wonderful garlic flavor…
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Parmesan Garlic Pull-Apart Bread is the perfect mix of crispy, cheesy, and buttery goodness all wrapped up in soft, fluffy bread. The crispy golden edges have that wonderful garlic flavor paired with the rich taste of Parmesan cheese, making every bite a tasty little surprise. It’s the kind of bread that’s fun to eat because you pull apart each piece, making it great for sharing or just snacking on your own.
I love making this bread when I have friends over or when I want something cozy to munch on during movie night. One of my favorite parts is how easy it is to prepare — just a few simple ingredients and some love, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing treat. I always find myself sneaking a few pieces before everyone even sits down because it smells so good when it’s baking!
This bread works great as a side for soups, salads, or pasta dinners, but honestly, I’m just as happy eating it plain. If you want to mix things up, try dipping the pieces in marinara or ranch dressing for an extra flavor boost. It’s a simple recipe that turns any meal into a little celebration, and I’m sure you’ll find yourself making it over and over again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crusty Bread: Choose a fresh sourdough or Italian loaf for the best texture. If you can’t find these, a sturdy French bread or even a large baguette will work. Avoid very soft or pre-sliced bread as it won’t hold up well.
Butter & Garlic: Real unsalted butter gives a rich flavor, and fresh garlic is key for that punch. If fresh garlic isn’t handy, garlic powder can be a quick stand-in, but use less so it doesn’t overpower.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty, salty taste and crispiness when baked. If you want a milder flavor, try Pecorino Romano or a finely shredded Asiago. Freshly grated cheese melts best in this recipe.
Fresh Parsley & Oregano: Fresh herbs brighten the bread and add color. Dried oregano is optional but gives an herbal lift. You can swap parsley with basil or chives for a different herbal note.
How Do You Cut the Bread Without Slicing It All the Way Through?
Making the right cuts is key to easy pull-apart bread. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a sharp serrated bread knife to avoid squashing the loaf.
- Cut vertically first, about every 1 to 2 inches, stopping about ½ inch from the bottom.
- Turn the bread and make horizontal cuts the same way, creating a crosshatch pattern.
- Keep your fingers clear and go slow—it’s easier to control the knife this way.
This method helps keep the bread intact at the base so it holds together, while still allowing you to pull apart the flavorful chunks after baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sharp serrated bread knife – it makes clean cuts without squishing the loaf.
- Small mixing bowl – perfect for mixing garlic butter and herbs evenly.
- Basting brush or spoon – helps you spread the garlic butter into the bread cuts easily.
- Baking sheet – sturdy enough to hold the wrapped bread and catch any drips.
- Aluminum foil – keeps the bread moist while baking before getting crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon bits inside for a smoky, crispy twist that pairs well with garlic.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar with Parmesan for extra cheesy, gooey pulls.
- Try fresh rosemary or thyme instead of parsley for a piney, earthy flavor.
- Include chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a tangy, Mediterranean touch.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Pull-Apart Bread?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread (such as sourdough or Italian bread)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of baking, so plan for about 40 minutes total to enjoy this cheesy, garlicky bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a sharp bread knife, carefully slice the loaf in a crosshatch pattern, making vertical and horizontal cuts about 1 to 2 inches apart. Be sure to stop cutting before you slice all the way through the bottom, so the loaf remains intact.
2. Mixing and Adding the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano (if using), salt, and pepper. Gently pull apart the bread pieces slightly and slowly drizzle or brush this garlic butter mixture evenly into all the cuts, making sure some mixture gets inside the crevices.
3. Adding Cheese and Baking:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top of the bread, letting some fall into the cuts. Wrap the loaf loosely in aluminum foil, place it on a baking sheet, and bake for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese tops are golden and the edges are crispy. Let cool a bit before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh bread for this recipe to achieve the perfect texture. If you only have frozen bread, thaw it completely at room temperature before making the cuts and adding the garlic butter.
Can I Make This Bread Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the bread with the garlic butter and cheese, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pull-apart bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm it in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
What Can I Serve with Parmesan Garlic Pull-Apart Bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, and pasta dishes. It’s also great served with marinara sauce, ranch, or olive oil for dipping.
