A bold twist on Italian-American comfort food—golden garlic bread boats brimming with saucy spaghetti, melted mozzarella, and a sprinkle of parsley for the ultimate carb-lovers’ indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread is the kind of dish that brings joy to any table. It’s comfort food at its finest—crispy, buttery garlic bread meets cheesy, marinara-coated spaghetti in a presentation that’s as fun to eat as it is satisfying. Perfect for casual gatherings, game day spreads, or weeknight dinners that call for something a little over-the-top, this recipe is easy to make and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 large loaf of French or Italian bread
8 oz cooked spaghetti
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the bread in half lengthwise and carefully hollow out the center of each half, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the inside of each hollowed bread half.
In a large bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with marinara sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Evenly fill each bread half with the spaghetti mixture, pressing gently to fit.
Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
Remove from oven, garnish with additional chopped parsley, slice, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people, depending on portion size. Total preparation and cooking time is approximately 35–40 minutes, including baking.

Variations

Add meat: Mix in cooked ground beef or sausage with the spaghetti for a heartier version.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the marinara.
Different cheeses: Use provolone, cheddar, or a blend for varied flavor.
Vegetarian twist: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the spaghetti.
Mini version: Use individual sub rolls for personal-sized portions.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to regain crispness. Avoid microwaving as it may result in soggy bread.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought garlic bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can start with pre-made garlic bread, but you may need to adjust the butter and garlic amounts to avoid overpowering the flavor.

What type of bread works best?

A large French or Italian loaf with a firm crust and soft interior is ideal for holding the filling without becoming soggy.

Can I prepare this in advance?

You can prepare and assemble the bread ahead, then bake it just before serving for best texture.

Is it okay to use leftover spaghetti?

Absolutely. This is a great recipe to repurpose leftover spaghetti.

Can I freeze this?

Freezing is not recommended as the bread may become soggy upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

What sauce works best?

A classic marinara is ideal, but you can also use arrabbiata or your favorite homemade tomato sauce.

Can I use gluten-free bread and pasta?

Yes, gluten-free alternatives for both bread and pasta can be used without issue.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Use a firm bread, avoid over-saucing the pasta, and brush the inside with the garlic butter to create a barrier.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, just use a meat-free marinara sauce and consider adding veggies to the spaghetti.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make great side dishes to balance the richness.

Conclusion

Cheesy Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread takes two beloved comfort foods and fuses them into a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or potlucks, it offers everything you want in a satisfying meal—crispy bread, cheesy pasta, and bold flavor in every bite. It’s simple to make, impressive to serve, and irresistible to eat.