Easy Pull-Apart Bread Recipe: Cheesy, Garlicky, and Totally Irresistible
Melted cheese tucked into a tender loaf turns every gathering into a cozy feast.

Pull-Apart Bread: A Comforting, Shareable Delight
Pull-apart bread is the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, garlicky, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. This recipe, inspired by The Pioneer Woman, transforms a simple loaf of bread into a stunning centerpiece, bursting with flavor and easy to customize for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a party, need a satisfying side, or just crave something indulgent, this pull-apart bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep and maximum impact, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, even beginner bakers can achieve impressive results.
- Customizable: Swap cheeses, add herbs, or mix in your favorite flavors for endless variations.
- Perfect for Sharing: Pull-apart bread is designed for groups—no slicing required, just tear and enjoy!
- Great for Any Occasion: Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or comforting snack.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible pull-apart bread:
- 1 round artisan or sourdough loaf
- 8 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated fontina
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup grated Romano
- 2 teaspoons chopped chives
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your own pull-apart bread masterpiece:
Roast the Garlic
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Place the peeled garlic cloves on a square of heavy-duty foil. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and wrap tightly.
- Roast the garlic in the oven for about 1 hour, until golden and soft. Let cool slightly, then reduce oven temperature to 350°F.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, mash the roasted garlic.
- Add the mozzarella, fontina, Parmesan, Romano, chives, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Bread
- Using a serrated knife, cut the bread into strips one way, being careful not to cut all the way through the loaf. Rotate the bread 90 degrees and repeat, creating a grid pattern.
- Stuff the cheese mixture into the slits.
- Drizzle the melted butter all over the top of the bread.
- Wrap the loaf in foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, open the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy
- Let the bread cool for a few minutes, then serve warm so the cheese is at its melty best.
- Pair with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Variations and Tips
Cheese Variations
Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, Gouda, or goat cheese all work beautifully. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne.
Herb Options
Try fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a different herbal note. Mix and match to suit your taste.
Making Ahead
You can prep the cheese mixture and roast the garlic ahead of time. Assemble the bread just before baking for the freshest result.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers can be wrapped in foil and reheated in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat from frozen in a low oven.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 320 |
Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 28g |
Protein | 12g |
Sodium | 480mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! While artisan or sourdough works best, you can use any sturdy loaf. Avoid bread that’s too soft, as it may fall apart.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheeses and butter. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Don’t overstuff the slits, and bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the top.
Can I add meat to this bread?
Absolutely! Crispy bacon, cooked sausage, or even prosciutto would be delicious additions.
What can I serve with pull-apart bread?
This bread pairs well with soups, salads, or as part of a charcuterie board. It’s also fantastic on its own as a snack.
Why Pull-Apart Bread Is Always a Hit
There’s something magical about bread that’s meant to be shared. Pull-apart bread invites everyone to gather around the table, breaking off warm, cheesy pieces and savoring every bite. It’s a recipe that feels special, yet is deceptively simple to make—a hallmark of Ree Drummond’s approachable, comforting cooking style.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday, game day, or just a cozy family dinner, this pull-apart bread is sure to become a new favorite. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s a staple in The Pioneer Woman’s kitchen—and soon, yours too.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_znqS7faI8
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a65468030/pull-apart-garlic-herb-biscuits-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a40884272/pull-apart-garlic-bread-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a41171447/pull-apart-cheese-bread-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a10823/pull-apart-bread/
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