Last Updated on January 10, 2021 – Originally posted in September of 2017
The Man of the House (TMOTH) is an excellent cook. Once he asked me to make a batch of hoagie rolls thinking they would be used for sandwiches. Instead, he transformed them into irresistibly cheesy garlic bread made from leftover pizza ingredients—simple, flavorful, and unexpected.
This version is forgiving on exact measurements and focuses more on technique and flavor, which makes it perfect for using whatever you have on hand.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
Plan ahead by preparing the aromatics a few hours before baking. Dice garlic, green peppers, and red peppers and toss them with olive oil. Keep this mixture refrigerated for a few hours until you’re ready to assemble. (Note: storing garlic in oil is safe for a short time in the refrigerator, but it is not a recommended long-term preservation method.)
When it’s time to bake, slice three hoagie rolls in half lengthwise and place them cut side up on a baking sheet. Spoon the olive oil–soaked vegetables evenly over each roll half, then sprinkle with chopped green onions. Top each piece with chopped mozzarella and a generous grating of Parmesan.
Bake the assembled rolls in a preheated oven at 225°F (about 110°C) for 20 minutes to warm through and meld flavors. Finish under the broiler for about 2 minutes to melt and lightly brown the cheese—watch closely so the cheese doesn’t burn.
This cheesy garlic bread is versatile: use different cheeses, add cooked mushrooms, olives, or cooked sausage, or swap the hoagie rolls for baguette slices. It makes a great side for salads, soups, or pasta, and is a tasty way to use leftover pizza toppings.
