Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe: The Secret Ingredient for Creamy Perfection
Forget ordinary garlic bread! This cheesy garlic bread recipe includes a surprising ingredient that makes it incredibly creamy and flavorful. Perfect as a snack or a side dish for your favorite pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it alongside my one-pot pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.

Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love It
- What Readers Are Saying
- Ingredients
- How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread with Mayo
- Tips and Tricks for Cheesy Garlic Bread Success
- Best Meals to Serve with Garlic Bread
- Common Questions
- More Cheesy Bread Recipes You’ll Love
- Secret Ingredient Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
For those who have been following my culinary journey since 2008, you know my mom, Noni, is a constant source of inspiration, both in the kitchen and in life.
This cheesy garlic bread recipe is another one of her amazing creations. It transforms a simple dish into something extraordinary, leaving you wondering why you ever made garlic bread any other way.
The secret ingredient to this incredibly creamy cheesy garlic bread? Mayonnaise! And I’m a big believer in the power of secret ingredients. I even dedicated an entire cookbook to them, The Secret Ingredient Cookbook.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Bread
Once you try cheesy garlic bread made with mayonnaise, you’ll never look back. Here’s why:
- Simple Ingredients: It’s made with just 7 readily available ingredients.
- Quick to Bake: It requires less than 10 minutes of baking time.
- Unbelievably Creamy: Thanks to the mayonnaise, it boasts a creamy and velvety texture.
- Perfect Cheese Pull: The ideal combination of cheeses ensures a satisfying cheese pull with every bite.
- Crispy and Soft: It achieves the perfect balance of crispy edges and a pillowy-soft interior.
What Readers Are Saying
This cheesy garlic bread with mayo has been a reader favorite since I originally shared it in 2011. Here’s what people love about it:
“So good. So so good!!!! Just made lasagna and this bread. My husband and son never eat the bread and they devoured this. I had to buy mayo as I don’t eat it nor do I keep it in the house but it has just become a staple. Yummmmmo. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️” – Laura
“This is the best garlic bread! The mayonnaise adds an additional creaminess to every bite that can’t be beat. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️” – Jane
Ingredients for the Best Cheesy Garlic Bread

- Unsalted Butter: The foundation of our garlic butter spread. Soften it for easy mixing.
- Shredded Asiago and Monterey Jack Cheeses: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and avoids anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded varieties.
- Mayonnaise: The secret ingredient! It brings a velvety texture and a subtle tang to the garlic butter mixture. Use a good quality mayonnaise for the best results.
- Scallions: These vibrant green onions add a mild, fresh bite and a pop of color. Use both the white and green parts.
- Garlic: Finely mince the garlic cloves for an intense garlic flavor. If you’re a garlic enthusiast, feel free to add more to your liking!
- French Bread: Choose a loaf that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside – the perfect base for garlic bread. A good quality French bread will make all the difference.
See the recipe card below for full ingredient quantities.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread with Mayo: Step-by-Step
Say goodbye to ordinary garlic bread – this recipe is a game-changer! It’s incredibly easy to make. Simply prepare the cheesy garlic butter, spread it on the bread, and bake. Here’s a closer look at each step, plus tips for success to ensure perfect cheesy garlic bread every time:
- Make the Cheesy Garlic Butter: Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, for easier mixing. This helps create a smooth and well-incorporated cheese spread. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer can help ensure the mixture is light and fluffy.

- Slice the French Loaf: Use a serrated knife for a clean cut through the bread. If the loaf is very soft, placing it in the freezer for a few minutes can make slicing easier and prevent it from squishing. Aim for even slices to ensure uniform baking.
- Spread the Garlic Butter on Each Half: Spread the garlic butter all the way to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite. Don’t be shy with the spread! A generous layer will ensure every bite is packed with garlicky cheesy goodness.

- Bake, Then Broil: Keep a close eye on the broiling process; it happens quickly. Aim for a beautiful golden-brown color to achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and gooeyness. Rotate the bread under the broiler for even browning.
- Cut Into Slices and Serve: Use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to ensure clean slices without squishing the soft interior. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Pro Tip: Serve your mayo garlic bread with a side of marinara sauce, garlic-infused olive oil, or buttermilk ranch dressing for the ultimate dipping experience. Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
Tips and Tricks for Cheesy Garlic Bread Success
- Bread Choice: I prefer using a fresh 1lb loaf of French bread from the bakery section of my grocery store. It’s sturdy enough to hold the cheesy garlic butter spread yet still has that pillowy-soft interior. Other bread types can also be used such as Italian bread, sourdough or even baguette for smaller individual bread.
- Baking Sheet Prep: Lightly grease the baking sheet or use parchment paper to prevent the cheesy mixture from sticking to the pan, making cleanup a breeze. Using foil also works and can be tossed after baking to save time.
- Garlic Intensity: Adjust the amount of minced garlic based on your preference. For a milder flavor, use less; for a stronger kick, feel free to increase the quantity. Roasting the garlic before mincing it can provide a sweeter, less pungent flavor.
- Leftover Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or toaster oven for a better texture than the microwave. Spritzing with a little water before reheating can help prevent it from drying out.
Best Meals to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Bread
I love pairing this cheesy garlic bread with any of my go-to pasta dishes or serving it next to a big kale Caesar salad. Alternatively, serve it alongside other crowd-pleasing appetizers and watch it disappear quickly! It’s also a fantastic addition to any potluck or BBQ.
Here are some of the best meals to serve with garlic bread:
- Baked Boursin Cheese Pasta
- Pepperoni Pizza Pasta – the garlicky goodness of this cheesy bread complements the zesty pepperoni and melted cheese in this pasta perfectly.
- The Best Homemade Lasagna
- Caprese Pasta Salad with Chicken
- Baked Feta Pasta
- Creamy Homemade Tomato Soup – dipping and dunking into this creamy soup elevates the classic pairing of tomato and cheese to a new level of comfort.
- Cheesy Baked Penne with Sausage
- Quick Bruschetta Chicken – the garlic-infused bread provides a crunchy contrast to the juicy chicken.
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
- Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Common Questions About Cheesy Garlic Bread
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! I recommend choosing cheeses that melt easily, such as Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar. Experiment with your favorite combinations to create a personalized cheesy experience. For a more sophisticated flavor, try Gruyere or Fontina.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can substitute garlic powder. However, using fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor. If using garlic powder, start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
What if I don’t have mayonnaise?
You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar creamy texture. The flavor profile may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Can I make this in advance for a party?
Absolutely! Prepare the bread ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best results. Avoid baking it entirely in advance, as it can become soggy. You can prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the bread a few hours ahead of time.
Can I add additional ingredients like herbs or spices?
Sure! Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor. Consider adding Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, can also be added after baking for a fresh flavor.

More Cheesy Bread Recipes You’ll Love

Cheesy Garlic Bread with Ricotta

Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread

Caprese Garlic Bread

Cheesy Garlic Bread Pizza

Quick Homemade Garlic Knots
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Secret Ingredient Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
A surprising addition makes this recipe for Secret Ingredient Cheesy Garlic Bread the best loaf to ever hit your lips!
Author: Kelly Senyei
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★
★
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5 from 14 votes

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup shredded Asiago cheese
- 2/3 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sliced scallions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 loaf French bread
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
- In a bowl, combine the softened butter, Asiago cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, mayonnaise, sliced scallions, and minced garlic. Stir until combined.
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise then spread both sides with the cheese mixture.
- Bake the bread for 7 minutes then place it under the broiler just until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
- Cut it into slices and serve.
Kelly’s Notes
- I like to use a fresh 1lb. loaf of French bread from the bakery section of my grocery store. It’s sturdy enough to hold up to the cheesy garlic butter spread yet still has that pillowy soft interior.
- Lightly grease the baking sheet or use parchment paper to prevent the cheesy mixture from sticking to the pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Adjust the amount of minced garlic based on your preference. For a milder flavor, use less; for a stronger kick, feel free to increase the quantity.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or toaster oven for a better texture than the microwave.
- ★ Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!
Nutrition
Calories: 316kcal, Protein: 6g, Fat: 31g, Saturated Fat: 12g, Cholesterol: 50mg, Sodium: 444mg, Potassium: 22mg, Vitamin A: 475IU, Vitamin C: 0.4mg, Calcium: 208mg, Iron: 0.2mg
Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below with your star rating!
