1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the garlic and herbs are evenly distributed.
3. Slice the Bread
Slice the French baguette or Italian bread into 1-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Spread the Garlic Butter
Spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture onto each bread slice. Use a butter knife or the back of a spoon to ensure each slice is evenly coated.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the garlic buttered bread slices.
6. Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
7. Serve
Remove the garlic cheese bites from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Appetizer: Serve these cheese bites as a delicious starter at your next party or gathering.
- Snack: Enjoy them as a warm, cheesy snack any time of day.
- Pairing: These bites pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or a glass of wine.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Cheese Bites:
- Butter Consistency: Make sure your butter is softened for easy spreading. If it’s too hard, it will be difficult to spread evenly.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or Gruyère, for a unique flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just spread it on the bread and add the cheese right before baking.
Enjoy these simple and flavorful Garlic Butter Cheese Bites—they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them!