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A golden-brown loaf of sliced garlic bread topped with fresh parsley, served on a rustic cloth with whole garlic cloves.
Layla

Roasted Garlic & Three-Cheese Thanksgiving Bread

This roasted garlic and herb cheesy bread features a soft, fluffy interior and a perfectly crisp, golden-brown crust. Infused with sweet roasted garlic, fresh herbs, and a gooey three-cheese blend, it's the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish for any Thanksgiving feast.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 252
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Roasted Garlic
  • 1 whole head garlic
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 pinch salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Garlic Bread
  • 1 loaf (16 oz) crusty bread such as Italian, French, or Ciabatta
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature (1 stick)
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese adds a wonderful savory flavor
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a hint of warmth
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Pastry Brush or Spatula

Method
 

Roast the Garlic (Can be done up to 3 days ahead)
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head to expose the cloves.
  2. Place the garlic head on a small piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Wrap the garlic tightly in the foil.
  3. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the cloves are completely soft, caramelized, and fragrant. Allow to cool for a few minutes until it's safe to handle.
Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
  1. Squeeze the soft, roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into a small mixing bowl. Mash them with a fork to create a smooth paste.
  2. To the bowl with the garlic paste, add the softened butter, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, chives, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Assemble and Bake the Bread
  1. Slice the loaf of bread in half horizontally (like a sandwich). Place both halves, cut-side up, on a large baking sheet.
  2. Generously spread the garlic herb butter mixture over the entire cut surface of both bread halves, making sure to go all the way to the edges.
  3. In a separate small bowl, toss the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses together. Sprinkle this cheese blend evenly over the buttered bread.
  4. Bake in the 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, until the butter has fully melted into the bread and the cheese is bubbly and starting to turn golden at the edges.
  5. For a crispier, more browned topping, switch the oven to the broil setting and broil for 1-2 minutes. WATCH CAREFULLY as it can burn very quickly.
  6. Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two before slicing into thick pieces. Serve immediately while it's warm and cheesy.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: The roasted garlic and the garlic herb butter can both be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Store the butter mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to soften at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes before spreading on the bread.
Bread Choice: A sturdy, crusty bread with a good chew is essential. A French baguette, ciabatta, or a rustic Italian loaf works best as it holds up to the butter and cheese without becoming soggy.
Storage: Store leftover garlic bread wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or an air fryer until warm and the crust is crispy again.