Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser

If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer or a comforting snack, look no further than sourdough cheesy pull-apart bread.

This recipe combines crusty sourdough bread, gooey melted cheese, and a drizzle of buttery garlic goodness. It’s an easy, fun, and delicious dish perfect for sharing.

Let’s dive into the recipe, along with some handy tips, serving suggestions, and creative variations!

Ingredients

1 large sourdough loaf (unsliced)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or a mix)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Using a sharp bread knife, carefully make diagonal cuts across the loaf, about 1 inch apart, stopping just before the bottom of the bread. Rotate the loaf and make another set of diagonal cuts in the opposite direction, creating a grid pattern. Be careful not to cut all the way through—this will keep the loaf intact.

2. Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Stuff the Bread

Gently separate the sections of the bread and drizzle the garlic butter mixture into all the crevices. Use a pastry brush if needed to ensure even coverage.
Next, stuff the shredded cheese into the cuts, pressing it deep into the bread for maximum cheesiness.

4. Wrap and Bake

Place the loaf on a large piece of foil and wrap it loosely, sealing the edges to trap the steam. Bake for 15 minutes.

Then, open the foil and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the bread edges are crispy.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm, pulling apart sections with your hands or using tongs.

Tips for Success

Choose the Right Bread: A sturdy sourdough loaf works best because it holds its shape and absorbs the garlic butter without becoming soggy.
Cheese Matters: Use a mix of cheeses for a balance of flavor and meltability. Mozzarella for the stretch, cheddar for sharpness, and Gruyère for nuttiness are a great combo.
Don’t Overcut: Be gentle when slicing the bread grid to avoid cutting through the bottom crust.
Wrap Smart: Wrapping in foil ensures the bread steams and stays soft inside while baking. Unwrapping it partway through gives it that crispy, golden crust.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the bread with the garlic butter and cheese, then wrap it in foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of bread?
Of course! French bread, ciabatta, or any crusty artisan loaf will work well.

3. What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
You can substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for fresh garlic in the butter mixture.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?
Wrap the bread in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

As an Appetizer: Pair with marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip.
With a Meal: Serve alongside soup, salad, or pasta for a hearty addition.
At a Party: Place it on a platter with other finger foods like veggie sticks, crackers, and dips.

Variations to Try

1. Bacon & Cheddar: Add crumbled cooked bacon and cheddar cheese for a smoky twist.
2. Pesto Mozzarella: Drizzle pesto into the bread cuts along with the butter and use fresh mozzarella.
3. Jalapeño Popper Style: Add diced jalapeños and a mix of cream cheese and shredded cheddar.
4. Sweet Cinnamon Sugar: Swap garlic butter for a mix of melted butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Use cream cheese or mascarpone for stuffing.