Name: Garlic Bread Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread (about 16 inches); ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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If the thought of Garlic Bread instantly puts a smile on your face, you’re in the right place! Golden at the edges, rich with buttery garlic and that hit of fresh parsley, this beloved side transforms any meal into a cozy celebration. Whether you’re pairing it with pasta night or serving it alongside soups and salads, Garlic Bread’s irresistible aroma and flavor make every table moment special. Let’s dive into your new go-to, foolproof recipe that delivers on taste and texture every single time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Garlic Bread recipe stands out thanks to a short, thoughtful list of ingredients. Each one shines in its role, bringing balance and depth—from sturdy, flavorful bread to aromatic garlic and a touch of cheese if you please.

French or Italian bread: Choose a loaf about 16 inches long; its chewy crumb and sturdy crust make it the perfect base for rich toppings.
Unsalted butter (softened): Soft butter makes it easy to blend with garlic and spread generously on the bread.
Garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the bread with bold, aromatic flavor—don’t go shy!
Chopped fresh parsley: This herb brings a bright, fresh kick and a pop of green that looks beautiful over golden bread.
Salt: Just a pinch brings balance and makes all the other flavors shine.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For those who crave a nutty, savory finish—add Parmesan for extra indulgence.

How to Make Garlic Bread

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready and waiting. Then, grab your bread loaf, and using a serrated knife, slice it in half lengthwise. This creates plenty of surface area for all that luscious garlic butter to sink in. Arrange the halves cut side up on a baking sheet for easy assembly and even baking.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine your softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Use a fork or a spatula to thoroughly mash and mix everything—this is where the magic really starts! You want a uniform spread with flecks of green and plenty of garlicky aroma.

Step 3: Slather and Sprinkle

Spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves, making sure to cover all the way to the edges. If you’re feeling a bit extra (and who isn’t when it comes to Garlic Bread?), sprinkle the tops with grated Parmesan cheese for a lovely savory crust.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter is melted, the edges are delightfully golden, and your kitchen smells like heaven. If you love a crispier finish, pop it under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes—just keep a close eye so those golden edges don’t tip over into burnt territory!

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Let the bread cool for a minute or so for easier slicing, then cut into pieces. Serve your Garlic Bread warm for the best flavor and texture. That first bite, with its golden crunch and buttery, aromatic burst, will have everyone reaching for seconds.

How to Serve Garlic Bread

Garnishes

Give your Garlic Bread a finishing flourish with extra chopped parsley or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese right before serving. For a spicy kick, try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. These simple touches make your bread pop visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread pairs famously with so many main courses. It’s a natural with classic pastas—think spaghetti, lasagna, or baked ziti—and just as dreamy dunked into stews, soups, or creamy chowders. Even a crisp Caesar salad or simple greens are elevated by a warm, flavorful slice.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Garlic Bread up a notch by slicing it into sticks for easy sharing, or use a serrated knife to create “bread boats” for serving dips right in the center of the loaf. For an appetizer, top the bread with roasted tomatoes or melted mozzarella before slicing—this turns a familiar favorite into a memorable starter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Garlic Bread left over (no guarantees!), let it cool, then store pieces in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. Refrigerated, they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for quick snacks or the next meal.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Garlic Bread! Arrange the prepared (but unbaked) bread halves on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then wrap in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll keep for 1 to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cook time.

Reheating

To reheat, simply wrap your Garlic Bread in foil and pop it back in a 350°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes. This keeps the bread moist inside and helps restore that perfect crispy edge. For smaller portions or extra crispiness, a toaster oven works wonders!

FAQs

Can I use pre-chopped garlic or garlic powder?

Freshly minced garlic delivers the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can substitute with garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon per loaf, and mix directly into your softened butter.

What bread is best for Garlic Bread?

Sturdy loaves like French or Italian bread are classic for their fluffy interior and crunchy crust. You can use ciabatta or a baguette if you like a different texture or even whole wheat for extra nuttiness!

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Swap out the butter for your favorite dairy-free alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese. The results are still gorgeously golden and flavorful.

Is Garlic Bread gluten free?

As written, this recipe isn’t gluten-free, but you can easily substitute your favorite gluten-free loaf. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the butter and baking.

What’s the secret to extra crispy Garlic Bread?

For crunch lovers, broil the bread for a minute or two right after baking. Keep a close watch and toast to your favorite shade of crunchiness. A baking stone or pizza stone also helps get the perfect golden crust!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to wow friends or family with minimal effort, nothing beats homemade Garlic Bread. Try it at your next dinner and watch as it disappears, slice by buttery slice. Don’t be surprised if this easy recipe becomes your new table favorite!

Garlic Bread Recipe

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4.6 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 17 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and flavor of homemade garlic bread with this easy recipe. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with garlicky buttery goodness, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread:

1 loaf French bread or Italian bread (about 16 inches)

Garlic Butter:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
¼ teaspoon salt

Topping:

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Bread: Slice the loaf in half lengthwise and place both halves cut side up on a baking sheet.
Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and salt until well combined.
Spread Butter: Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden and the butter is melted.
Broil (Optional): For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.
Serve: Slice and serve warm.