Hasselback Cheesy Bread is a stunning and delicious pull-apart bread that’s perfect for sharing. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and stuffed with gooey, melty cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, it’s guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The hasselback style looks impressive yet is simple to prepare.
- Irresistible Flavor: Crispy bread paired with gooey cheese and optional seasonings makes it a flavor-packed treat.
- Versatile: Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in.
- Customizable: Use your favorite cheese and seasonings for a personal touch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bread loaf (like sourdough or French bread)
- Cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
- Butter
- Garlic (minced)
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the bread loaf diagonally into sections about 1 inch apart, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Repeat the process in the opposite direction to create a crosshatch pattern.
- Melt butter and mix it with minced garlic. Brush the mixture into the cuts of the bread.
- Stuff each cut with slices or shreds of cheese.
- Wrap the bread in foil, leaving the top slightly exposed. Bake for 15–20 minutes.
- Unwrap completely and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 6–8 as a side or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
- Garlic Butter Herb: Add Italian seasoning or rosemary to the garlic butter mixture for an herby twist.
- Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Cheesy Explosion: Mix in Parmesan, gouda, or gruyere for a more complex flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Swap garlic for honey or jam and use brie or cream cheese for a unique take.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread crispy.
FAQs
What type of bread is best for Hasselback Cheesy Bread?
A sturdy loaf like sourdough, French bread, or ciabatta works best to hold the cheese and butter.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the bread and store it wrapped in the fridge. Bake just before serving.
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella and cheddar are classics, but you can use any meltable cheese like provolone, gouda, or Monterey Jack.
How do I prevent the bread from drying out?
Wrapping the bread in foil for the first part of baking helps retain moisture.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free loaf as a substitute.
Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you use vegetarian cheese.
Can I add meat?
Sure! Add cooked bacon bits, ham slices, or pepperoni for extra flavor.
How do I prevent the bread from falling apart?
Cut carefully to avoid slicing through the bottom, and use a sturdy loaf that can hold its shape.
What other toppings can I use?
Try sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Can I use pre-sliced bread?
It’s not recommended, as it won’t hold the hasselback shape or the fillings as well.
Conclusion
Hasselback Cheesy Bread is the ultimate indulgence for bread and cheese lovers. Its crispy edges, gooey cheese, and buttery flavor make it a hit at any gathering. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own flair, this bread is bound to impress. Serve it warm and watch it disappear!
Print
Hasselback Cheesy Bread
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hasselback Cheesy Bread is a pull-apart delight featuring a loaf of crusty bread stuffed with melty cheese, garlic, and herbs. Perfect as a party appetizer or a cozy snack, it’s easy to make and endlessly satisfying!
Ingredients
- 1 large crusty loaf (like sourdough or Italian bread)
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Prepare the bread:
- Place the loaf on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, cut deep slits into the bread, about 1 inch apart, without cutting all the way through to the bottom. Rotate the loaf 90 degrees and make perpendicular cuts to create a crosshatch pattern.
- Mix the garlic butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, parsley (if using), and red pepper flakes (if desired).
- Stuff the bread:
- Gently open the slits in the bread and stuff them with the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, ensuring even distribution. Use a spoon or brush to drizzle the garlic butter mixture into the slits, coating the bread and cheese.
- Bake:
- Wrap the stuffed bread loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
- Unwrap the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden.
- Serve:
- Let the bread cool slightly before serving. Place it on a serving platter and allow guests to pull apart the cheesy, garlicky goodness!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes into the slits along with the cheese.
- This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C).