Garlic Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic bread is universally loved for its crispy texture, rich flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite pasta, using it as a snack, or pairing it with a comforting soup, this recipe is bound to please. The combination of butter, garlic, and herbs makes each bite savory and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of French or Italian bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the loaf of bread in half horizontally.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
5. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
6. Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter for extra flavor.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
8. Slice and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the top of the garlic butter before baking for a cheesy, gooey version.
• Herbed Garlic Bread: Experiment with different herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to change up the flavor.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Instead of using a loaf, slice the dough into breadsticks and bake them for a fun twist.
• Vegan Garlic Bread: Swap out the butter for vegan butter and use plant-based cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover garlic bread in an airtight container or wrap it in aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the garlic bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warm and crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 20-30 seconds if you’re in a hurry, but it won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of bread for garlic bread?

Yes, you can use any type of bread, though French or Italian bread is most commonly used for garlic bread. Baguettes or ciabatta also work well.

2. How do I make garlic bread extra crispy?

To make garlic bread extra crispy, bake it for a few extra minutes or broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time.

3. Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, spread it on the bread and cook as usual.

4. Can I freeze garlic bread?

Yes, you can freeze garlic bread! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.

5. What’s the best bread for garlic bread?

French bread or Italian bread are the best choices for garlic bread because of their airy, soft center and slightly crispy crust.

6. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic, but the flavor may not be as intense. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic.

7. Can I add other toppings to my garlic bread?

Yes! You can experiment with toppings like mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, or even bacon for different flavor profiles.

8. How long does garlic bread last?

Garlic bread will stay fresh for 1-2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. If you freeze it, it can last for up to 3 months.

9. How do I prevent garlic bread from getting soggy?

To prevent soggy garlic bread, avoid spreading too much butter on the bread and bake at a higher temperature for a crispier texture.

10. Can I use margarine instead of butter for garlic bread?

Yes, you can use margarine instead of butter, though it may alter the flavor slightly. For the best taste, stick with unsalted butter.

Conclusion

Garlic bread is a simple yet delicious side dish that adds flavor and texture to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside pasta, soup, or enjoying it on its own as a snack, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and customizable to your tastes. Enjoy the crispy, buttery goodness of homemade garlic bread today!

Garlic Bread

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Garlic Bread is a beloved side dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With crispy edges, a soft center, and the irresistible taste of garlic butter, it’s the perfect pairing for pasta, soup, or salad. Try this easy homemade garlic bread recipe with just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen!

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 15min
• Total Time: 25min
• Yield: 4-6servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of French or Italian bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the loaf of bread in half horizontally.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
5. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
6. Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the garlic butter for added flavor.
7. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
8. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

• For cheesy garlic bread, top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar before baking.
• For herbed garlic bread, use basil, oregano, or thyme instead of parsley.
• This recipe can also be made vegan by using plant-based butter and cheese.