Garlic Bread Recipe
Golden, crispy edges with a soft, buttery center and bold garlic flavor. This simple yet irresistible garlic bread is perfect for any meal and can be frozen for later.
Ingredients
For the Bread Base
- 1 lb Italian or French loaf Choose a loaf sturdy enough to hold toppings but soft enough to soak up butter
For the Garlic Butter Spread
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened Salted butter works too—adjust added salt accordingly
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 0.125 tsp sea salt
Optional Cheese Toppings
- 0.25 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish
- extra chopped parsley for garnish
- fresh chives optional, for color and mild onion flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Cut the loaf in half lengthwise. Place both halves on the baking sheet with the cut sides facing up.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and sea salt. Mix until fully blended and smooth.
- Use a butter knife or spatula to spread the garlic butter evenly across the cut sides of the bread. Make sure it covers all edges for full flavor.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the butter has melted into the bread.
- If using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last two minutes of baking. Let it melt until bubbly and stretchy.
- For extra crunch, bake an additional 3–5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. Remove when the top is golden and edges are crisp. Cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Always use softened butter, not melted, for a creamy texture. Finely mince or mash garlic to avoid harsh bites. For a crispy finish, use the broiler in the final minute. Grate cheese fresh for the best melt and flavor.
Freeze unbaked garlic bread wrapped tightly in plastic and foil. Bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Variations: Add red pepper flakes for heat, try Asiago or provolone cheese, or mix in herbs like basil or oregano for a flavor twist.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 287 (14%)
- Carbohydrates: 25g (8%)
- Protein: 4g (8%)
- Fat: 18g (28%)
- Saturated Fat: 11g (69%)
- Cholesterol: 44g (15%)
- Sodium: 502mg (22%)
- Potassium: 61mg (2%)
- Fiber: 1g (4%)
- Vitamin A: 520IU (10%)
- Vitamin C: 0.5mg (1%)
- Calcium: 47mg (5%)
- Iron: 1.5mg (8%)