This Cheesy Quick Bread is simple, savory, and packed with flavor. To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. These dry ingredients will give the bread a nice rise and a subtle hint of seasoning. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 large egg. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are fine. Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, leaving a little extra to sprinkle on top for that golden, cheesy crust. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake the bread for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and the aroma irresistible! Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy warm, served alongside soups, salads, or as a delicious snack on its own. This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.