The Best Garlic Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Bread is incredibly easy to make yet full of bold, comforting flavors. The key to the perfect garlic bread is the right balance of butter, garlic, and seasonings. The garlic gets perfectly softened and aromatic when mixed with the butter, while the parsley adds freshness. Optional cheese toppings like parmesan or mozzarella make it extra decadent, turning an ordinary loaf into an extraordinary treat. It’s the perfect companion to any meal, especially for pasta lovers!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian loaf or French loaf
• 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter (can also use salted)
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
• ⅛ teaspoon sea salt

Optional:

• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For garnishing:

• Extra parsley and chives

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the Italian or French loaf in half lengthwise, creating two long halves. You can also slice it into individual pieces if preferred.
2. Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and sea salt. Stir until well combined. If you’re using cheese, add the parmesan or mozzarella cheese to the butter mixture and stir.
3. Spread the Garlic Butter: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread, making sure to cover every corner evenly.
4. Bake the Garlic Bread: Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet, cut-side up. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy. For extra crispy edges, you can switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with extra fresh parsley and chives for a vibrant, fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 (depending on how you slice the bread)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add more cheese to the garlic butter mixture for extra cheesy goodness. Use a combination of mozzarella and parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
• Spicy Garlic Bread: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a bit of heat.
• Herbed Garlic Bread: Enhance the flavor by adding a mix of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the butter mixture.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter and skip the cheese for a vegan-friendly garlic bread.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Garlic bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the garlic bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to warm it through and get the edges crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the bread ahead of time. Store the prepared bread in the refrigerator, wrapped in foil, and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer—baguettes, ciabatta, or even sourdough would work well for garlic bread.

Can I freeze garlic bread?

Yes, garlic bread can be frozen. After baking, let it cool completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. You can also freeze unbaked garlic bread (before baking) and cook it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How can I make garlic bread with a crispy crust?

For extra crispy garlic bread, use a baguette or ciabatta loaf with a crustier exterior. You can also broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking to achieve an even crispier finish.

Can I add other toppings to my garlic bread?

Yes! You can add grated cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar), sautéed mushrooms, or even caramelized onions to make your garlic bread even more decadent.

Conclusion

This Easy Garlic Bread recipe is a quick, simple, and incredibly delicious way to elevate your meal. With its golden, buttery, garlicky goodness and optional cheese, it’s a side dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, soup, or just enjoying it on its own, this garlic bread is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

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