Rich and Creamy Cheese Pull-Apart Bread

The Ultimate Gooey, Cheesy, Tear-and-Share Delight

Preparation Time

• Prep: 15 minutes

• Cook: 25–30 minutes

• Total Time: ~45 minutes

• Servings: 6–8 people

 Ingredients

For the bread:

• 1 large round sourdough loaf or crusty artisan bread (about 500–600g)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a mix of thyme, oregano, basil

For the filling:

• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, grated

• ¼ cup cream cheese, softened (optional for extra creaminess)

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives

• Salt and pepper to taste

 Instructions

1. Prepare the loaf

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

• Place the sourdough loaf on a cutting board.

• Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the bread diagonally into 1-inch (2.5 cm) diamond patterns, being careful not to slice all the way through the bottom crust. Do this in both directions to create a crosshatch pattern.

2. Make the garlic butter

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

• Brush or drizzle the garlic butter generously into all the cuts of the bread.

3. Stuff the cheese

• In a medium bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and chopped herbs.

• Carefully stuff the cheese mixture deep into the cuts of the bread. If using cream cheese, dollop small amounts into various crevices for extra gooeyness.

4. Bake

• Wrap the entire loaf in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet.

• Bake for 20 minutes, then uncover the top and bake an additional 8–10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling and the top is golden brown.

5. Serve

• Sprinkle with extra herbs and serve hot! This bread is best enjoyed warm while the cheese is stretchy and gooey.

 Tips & Variations

• Add bacon: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon inside for a smoky kick.

• Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

• Herb butter: Mix rosemary, parsley, and green onion into the butter for a herby punch.

• Make ahead: Assemble the bread up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

• Use different cheeses: Try Gruyère, provolone, smoked gouda, or Fontina.

 Serving Ideas

• Party appetizer: Perfect as a centerpiece for game day or potlucks.

• Soup companion: Serve alongside tomato soup, potato soup, or creamy bisques.

• Brunch spread: Add eggs, ham, or mushrooms into the loaf for a hearty breakfast pull-apart.

 Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)

Note: Values may vary based on the size of the loaf and type of cheese used.